Japan Hikes Visa Fees Amid Rising Foreign Population
Japan has revised its immigration rules by increasing fees for visa renewals and permanent residency applications. The changes took effect on October 1, according to the Immigration Services Agency of Japan.
The new fees will vary based on the length of residence granted, with longer periods attracting higher charges. For example, the maximum fee for visa renewals and changes to residence status has risen from 6,000 yen to 75,000 yen. Permanent residency applications now carry a maximum fee of 200,000 yen, up from 10,000 yen.
The revised visa renewal fees are as follows: up to three months (10,000 yen), three to six months (18,000 yen), six months to one year (25,000 yen), one year (33,000 yen), one to three years (48,000 yen), three to five years (64,000 yen), and five years or more (75,000 yen).
The changes follow revisions to Japan's Immigration Control Act passed in May. The new legislation also introduces a Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorisation, which will cover citizens of 74 countries and regions whose nationals can currently enter Japan without a visa for short stays.