Japan has announced a dramatic increase in visa fees, raising charges for foreign travelers by five times in what officials describe as the country’s first revision of visa issuance fees since 1978. The new rates will apply to applications submitted from July 1, 2026.
Under the revised fee structure, the cost of a single-entry visa will jump from ¥3,000 to ¥15,000, while multiple-entry visas will increase from ¥6,000 to ¥30,000. The changes were approved by the Japanese government as part of efforts to reflect nearly five decades of inflation, currency fluctuations, and rising administrative costs.
Japanese officials said the previous fee schedule had remained unchanged for 48 years, making Japan’s visa charges significantly lower than those of many other major economies. The government argues that the increase will bring visa fees closer to international standards while helping cover the costs of immigration and border management services.
Speaking after the decision, Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi said the government does not expect the higher fees to have an immediate impact on inbound tourism, noting that Japan continues to attract strong numbers of international visitors.
The fee increase will primarily affect travelers from countries that require visas to enter Japan. Visitors from visa-exempt nations, including many Western countries, will continue to enter without paying visa issuance fees for short-term tourist stays.
The move comes as Japan continues to modernize its immigration system through expanded digital visa services and preparations for a future electronic travel authorization system expected later this decade. Officials say these reforms are aimed at improving border security and streamlining entry procedures for travelers.
The decision has already sparked discussion within the travel industry, with some analysts warning that higher visa costs could affect budget-conscious travelers, while others believe Japan’s popularity as a tourism destination will limit any significant impact on visitor numbers.