The Japanese government approved a cabinet order on June 19, 2026, revising visa (certificate of eligibility) fees, with the new rates taking effect for applications received at overseas Japanese diplomatic missions on or after July 1, 2026. The fees were raised approximately fivefold — the first revision since 1978, meaning 48 years have passed since the last change.
New Fee Structure
| Visa Type | Previous Fee | New Fee (from July 1, 2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Single-entry visa | ¥3,000 | ¥15,000 (5×) |
| Multiple-entry visa | ¥6,000 | ¥30,000 (5×) |
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs cited rising prices and increased administrative costs due to the surge in inbound visitors as the primary reasons. The new rates bring Japan's visa fees in line with those of the United States and major European countries.
Countries Most Affected
Visas are required for nationals of countries that do not have a visa exemption agreement with Japan. Among all visas issued in fiscal year 2024, China accounted for approximately 73%, followed by the Philippines and Vietnam. Other commonly affected nationalities include India, Indonesia, Thailand, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka.
Nationals of visa-exempt countries (e.g., the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, France, Germany, Australia) do not need a visa for short-term stays (up to 90 days) and are unaffected by this change. However, these nationals still require a visa for long-term purposes such as employment, study, or family reunification.
Understanding the Difference: "Visa" vs. "Residence Status"
To understand the scope of this change, it is important to distinguish between two separate concepts:
- Visa (Certificate of Eligibility / Consular visa): A document issued by a Japanese diplomatic mission overseas that permits entry into Japan. Its effect ends upon arrival.
- Residence Status (Zairyu Shikaku): A permit to engage in activities in Japan, granted by the Immigration Services Agency. This determines what a foreign national can do in Japan (work, study, live with family, etc.).
This fee revision applies to visas obtained abroad. The separate residence status renewal / change fees are also being revised — currently under public comment — with changes expected from October 2026.
Impact on Foreign National Hiring Practices
Foreign nationals already residing in Japan with a valid residence card are generally not directly affected by this change. However, the following scenarios warrant attention:
- Hiring new employees from overseas: After obtaining a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) in Japan, the applicant must obtain a visa at a Japanese diplomatic mission in their home country. The cost of this visa now increases from ¥3,000 to ¥15,000 (single-entry). Employers should clarify in advance who bears this cost.
- Re-entry after extended absence abroad: If a foreign national departs Japan without a re-entry permit and stays abroad more than 180 days, they may need to obtain a new visa upon re-entry.
When hiring from abroad, inform candidates about the visa fee requirement and include it in the onboarding cost discussion. For candidates from developing countries, ¥15,000 may represent a significant expense. Also, obtaining a visa can take several days to a few weeks, so allow time in your onboarding schedule.
Key Takeaways
- Visa fees raised 5× effective July 1, 2026 (single entry: ¥15,000 / multiple entry: ¥30,000)
- First fee revision in 48 years; aligns Japan with US/European levels
- Affects nationals of countries requiring a visa (China 73%, Philippines, Vietnam, etc.)
- No impact on visa-exempt nationals for short stays
- Residence status renewal/change fees are separate (revision expected October 2026)
- Budget for increased visa costs when hiring new employees from abroad
For questions about visa applications, Certificate of Eligibility procedures, or residence status, please contact Sakura Central Legal Office (Ministry of Justice Certified Immigration Gyoseishoshi).