Japan hikes permanent residency fee 20 times amid immigration policy overhaul

Japan has dramatically increased the cost of applying for permanent residency, raising the fee by 20 times to 200,000 yen ($1,270). This significant hike is part of broader immigration policy changes that also introduce stricter financial, pension, and language requirements for foreign residents seeking permanent settlement.

The sudden fee increase has sparked a rush among applicants, with long waits reported at immigration offices. The changes come as Japan grapples with a record foreign resident population of over 4.12 million at the end of 2025, up 9.5% annually. The government, under Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, is prioritizing immigration management while relying on foreign workers to address labor shortages.

Additional requirements include demonstrating a stable income equal to Japan’s average household income of 5.75 million yen in 2024. Starting April 2027, applicants will also need basic Japanese-language proficiency and sufficient pension benefits. Financial assets may be considered if pension benefits are insufficient.

The new rules are already impacting long-term foreign residents. Micaiah Stevens, who has lived in Tokyo for a decade, plans to apply despite missing the deadline to avoid the higher fee. The stricter policies come as Japan faces an aging population and growing public debate over immigration.