Revised Immigration Law Enacted — Residence Status Renewal Fees Rise to up to ¥100,000; Permanent Residence Fee to ~¥200,000

Japan's revised Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act passed the House of Councillors on May 29, 2026, enabling a dramatic increase in fees for residence-related procedures. Current fees are ¥3,000–¥4,000 for renewal/change and ¥8,000 for permanent residence. Under the revised law, the statutory caps rise to ¥100,000 for renewal/change and approximately ¥200,000 for permanent residence — increases of up to 30 times. Exact amounts will be set by Cabinet Order.

Key Fee Changes

Purpose of the Reform

Revenue from the increased fees will fund Japanese language education programs and community integration measures for foreign residents — a "beneficiary pays" approach. The fee scale is designed so longer periods of stay attract higher fees, reflecting greater benefit from the status.

Impact on Foreign Nationals

• Workers on Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services, Specified Skilled Worker, etc.: Each renewal will cost significantly more. A 5-year renewal is estimated at ~¥70,000.
• Those seeking Permanent Residence: The fee is expected to rise to ~¥200,000 — roughly 25 times the current amount. Those considering permanent residence may want to apply before the new fees take effect.
• Those changing status: Status changes (e.g., Student → Engineer, Technical Intern → Specified Skilled Worker) will also be subject to the new fee scale.

Impact on Employers

• While the applicant (the foreign national) is legally responsible for the fee, many employers cover or reimburse these costs in practice — this will increase hiring costs.
• Companies sponsoring Specified Skilled Workers or育成就労 trainees should review their support plans, which may include visa application assistance.
• Inform relevant employees early so they can plan their renewal timing.

Timeline

The law was enacted May 29, 2026, but the specific fee amounts have not yet been set — they will be determined by Cabinet Order. The Ministry of Justice aims to implement within FY2026. We will publish an update as soon as the Cabinet Order is issued.