Japan Quintuples Visa Fees, First Price Hike in Half a Century

Mon Jun 22 2026 17:14:36 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Japan raised single- and multi-entry visa fees fivefold from July 1, sparking debate over tourism affordability amid a post‑pandemic rebound.

Japan’s ministry has lifted foreign visitor visa costs from ¥3,000 to ¥15,000 for single entry and ¥6,000 to ¥30,000 for multiple stays. The change is part of wider fee reforms aimed at matching G7 levels and countering a weakening yen. Officials say the hike should not curb tourism immediately, though critics worry about budget travelers' costs. Japan recorded a record 42.7 million visitors last year, highlighting the backdrop of the increases.

Japan Quintuples Visa Fees, First Price Hike in Half a Century

Group of tourists in Kyoto — Authorities say the fee increases will not立即ly affect inbound tourism.

Japan announced a five‑fold hike in visa fees for all foreigners effective July 1. Single‑entry visas will now cost 15,000 yen (about $118) versus 3,000 yen, while multi‑entry permits rise to 30,000 yen from 6,000 yen.

Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi explained that the adjustments reflect inflation and a weakened yen, and that the government has not anticipated an immediate impact on travel numbers.

The yen has been falling steadily since 2021 and is close to 40‑year lows. A stronger currency would have a similar effect on cost‑causing visa fees, prompting the revision.

Japan’s upper‑house bill also increases fees for residency status changes, lifting the cap for permanent residents to 300,000 yen and expanding the cost for changing or extending stays to 100,000 yen.

Proponents argue that Japan should align its visa expenditures with those of other G7 economies. U.S. non‑immigrant visa fees run between $185 and $315, and U.K. standard visitor visas cost £135.

Despite the increase, Japan recorded a record 42.7 million international visitors in the previous year, suggesting that affordability concerns may be offset by the post‑pandemic travel surge.