Japan has revised fees for visa renewals, changes to residence status and permanent residency applications from October 1, 2026, as the country updates its immigration-related procedures amid a growing foreign resident population.

Under the revised system, fees for visa renewal and changes to residence status now depend on the period of residence granted. For applications made at immigration counters, the fee ranges from ¥10,000 for stays of up to three months to ¥75,000 for periods of five years or more, compared with the previous ¥6,000 fee. 

The revised counter-application fees are:

• Up to three months: ¥10,000

• More than three months to six months: ¥18,000

• More than six months to less than one year: ¥25,000

• One year: ¥33,000

• More than one year to less than three years: ¥48,000

• Three to less than five years: ¥64,000

• Five years or more: ¥75,000

The fee for a permanent residency application has also increased substantially, reaching ¥200,000, compared with the previous ¥10,000. Certain applicants who meet specified requirements may qualify for a reduced fee. 

For online applications, the base fees are lower than the counter fees. From October 1, the online fee ranges from ¥10,000 to ¥65,000 depending on the approved residence period, with an additional payment-processing charge. Online payments are made through convenience-store or bank payment rather than revenue stamps. 

The new charges apply to applications submitted from October 1, 2026. Applications accepted by September 30 continue to be charged under the previous fee structure, even if the permission is granted after October 1. 

The changes come as Japan's foreign resident population continues to grow. Official data from the Immigration Services Agency shows that the number of foreign residents reached 4,125,395 at the end of 2025, an increase of 9.5% from the previous year and the first time the figure crossed four million. 

Japan has also been updating its broader immigration framework. The revised legislation provides for a Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorisation, planned for introduction in fiscal 2028, covering nationals of countries and regions currently eligible for short-term visa-free entry. The planned system would require travellers to submit information online before departure for checks against relevant databases.

The fee revision therefore adds a new cost consideration for foreign residents and applicants managing their status in Japan, particularly those applying for longer residence periods or permanent residency.