Japan to raise visa fees by 500%, starting April 2026.

Living and working in Japan is about to become very expensive for foreign nationals. Starting April 2026, the Japanese government plans to significantly increase fees for visas and residency permits.

​The move is designed to help the government cover rising costs and bring Japan’s fees closer to countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom.​

Foreign students and workers will see the biggest impact. Currently, it costs ¥6,000 (₹3,432) to renew a visa or change residency status. Under the new plan, this could jump to between ¥30,000 (₹17,160) and ¥40,000 (₹22,880).

For those planning to stay in Japan forever, the cost of applying for Permanent Residency (PR) is set for a massive hike. The current fee is ¥10,000 (₹5,720), and the new expected fee is over ¥100,000 (₹57,200).

Visitors to Japan will also feel the pinch. Tourist visas, single-entry visa fees are currently ¥3,000 (₹1,715) and could rise up to ¥15,000 (₹8,580).

The tax you pay to leave the country is expected to triple from ¥1,000 to ¥3,000 by July 2026.

​Early applications can help to save more. Using online application systems may also help avoid extra service charges.