Japan Jumps Permanent Residency Fees 20 Times Amid Population Growth Concerns

Japan has increased fees for foreigners seeking permanent residency from 10,000 yen to 200,000 yen as of October 1. The drastic hike has led to long lines at immigration offices, with Tokyo's main bureau reporting wait times exceeding seven hours.

The new policy, announced by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, aims to manage the nation's rapidly growing foreign population while addressing public concerns about social stability and local communities. In addition to the fee increase, applicants must now meet stricter income, pension, and Japanese-language requirements.

Applicants will need to show a stable household income at or above 5.75 million yen, which is the national average. They will also be required to demonstrate expected benefits equivalent to 30 years in the employee pension system. Language requirements are set to tighten further by April.