Japan Slams Brakes on Permanent Residency with Steep Fee Hike

The Japanese government has announced a significant increase in fees for permanent residence applications. From October onwards, foreign nationals seeking permanent residency will pay 200,000 yen, up from the current rate of 10,000 yen.

The new rates are outlined in an ordinance adopted by the government on Tuesday, August 25. Fees for changing a status of residence or extending a period of stay will also rise to as high as 75,000 yen.

The charges at administrative office counters will depend on the length of permission granted. For example, permission covering five years or more will carry a 75,000-yen fee, while 64,000 yen will be charged for three years to under five years.