The Japanese government will increase visa application fees for foreign nationals fivefold starting July 1, 2026 [1], [2].
The decision follows a cabinet approval on June 19 and represents a significant shift in the cost of entry for tourists, students, and workers. This move comes as Japan grapples with shifting economic conditions and the cost of administrative processing.
Under the new fee structure, single-entry visas will increase from ¥3,000 to ¥15,000 [1]. Multiple-entry visas will rise from ¥6,000 to ¥30,000 [1]. These rates apply to all applications submitted on or after July 1 [2].
Minister of Foreign Affairs Toshimitsu Motegi said the review was conducted to respond to recent price-level increases and exchange-rate fluctuations [1], [2]. He said that the government does not believe these changes will immediately impact inbound tourism [1].
While the government maintains that tourism will remain stable, some observers have raised concerns regarding the financial burden on specific demographics. Reporter Taro Yamada said that the fivefold increase could create a significant burden, particularly for low-income foreign workers and international students [3].
This adjustment to entry visas is distinct from other immigration cost changes. Separate amendments have addressed permanent-residence fees, which some reports indicate have risen by up to 30 times the previous amount [4]. However, the current cabinet decision specifically targets the single- and multiple-entry visa categories used by the majority of short-term visitors.
“Single-entry visas will increase from ¥3,000 to ¥15,000.”
The sharp increase in visa fees suggests that Japan is pivoting toward a more sustainable administrative model to offset the effects of inflation and a volatile yen. By aligning fees with current economic realities, the government is prioritizing cost recovery over the previous policy of low-cost entry, betting that the high demand for Japanese tourism and labor will outweigh the deterrent of higher costs.
