Key Points
- Japan will increase visa application fees for various immigration categories starting April 1, 2025.
- The new fees apply to both online and in-person applications.
- Costs for changing visa status or extending a stay will rise to ¥5,500 in-person and ¥6,000 online.
- Permanent residency applications will cost ¥10,000 for both online and in-person submissions.
- Multiple-entry visas and Certificates of Authorized Employment (CAE) will also see fee adjustments.
Overview
Starting April 1, 2025, Japan will increase visa application fees across several immigration categories. This change aims to standardize costs for both online and in-person applications while reflecting administrative processing expenses. The updated fees are as follows:
- Change of Status or Extension of Stay: ¥5,500 for in-person applications and ¥6,000 for online applications.
- Permanent Residency Applications: A flat fee of ¥10,000 applies to online and in-person submissions.
- Multiple-Entry Visa: ¥7,000 for in-person applications and ¥6,500 for online applications.
- Certificate of Authorized Employment (CAE): ¥2,000 for in-person applications and ¥1,600 for online submissions.
Japan’s Ministry of Justice has introduced these changes to ensure consistency in visa processing fees while incentivizing digital application platforms. Foreign nationals applying for changes in visa status, permanent residency, or employment authorization should prepare for these adjustments in advance.
Looking Ahead
The fee increases will take effect on April 1, 2025, impacting individuals and businesses managing immigration processes. Companies hiring foreign employees and individuals planning long-term stays in Japan should budget for the new costs.
Applicants are encouraged to explore online application options, as digital submissions for certain visa types remain slightly cheaper than in-person applications. The changes may also indicate a broader shift towards streamlining Japan’s immigration processes, potentially leading to future digitalization and process enhancements.
Those seeking residency status, visa renewals, or work authorizations should stay updated on additional immigration policy changes and ensure compliance with the new fee structure when submitting applications.
