Japan Immigration Reform 2026: Visa Fee Increases and What Foreign Residents Should Know

Fees for residence-related immigration procedures in Japan are expected to rise significantly.

On 28 April, a bill to amend the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act was passed by the House of Representatives. If formally enacted, the new fee structure is likely to be introduced during the 2026 fiscal year.

This marks a major shift, particularly given that the previous fee cap was around JPY 10,000. The proposed changes will have a substantial impact on many foreign residents in Japan.

How Much Will Visa Fees Be? Estimated Figures After the Reform?

According to recent reports, the following fee levels are being considered depending on the length of stay:

• Up to 3 months: JPY 10,000

• 1 year: JPY 30,000

• 3 years: JPY 60,000

• 5 years: approximately JPY 70,000

In addition, the statutory upper limit is expected to increase to JPY 100,000.

Compared to the current system, the burden will be particularly noticeable for long-term residents.

For permanent residence applications, the fee is expected to rise from JPY 10,000 to approximately JPY 200,000. The legal cap may be set as high as JPY 300,000, meaning the actual fee could vary depending on future policy decisions.

For those considering permanent residence, this represents a very significant change.

Practical Perspective: Strategic Visa Planning Will Become Essential

With higher fees, the idea of simply “renewing when necessary” will become less practical.

Each renewal may now involve substantial costs, meaning that residence status should be managed more strategically than before.

Aim to Secure Longer Periods of Stay

The difference between a 1-year and a 3-year period of stay is not just administrative — it directly affects long-term costs and effort.

Frequent renewals increase both financial costs and the time required to prepare documentation. By contrast, obtaining a 3-year or 5-year period of stay can significantly reduce this burden.

From a practical standpoint, the following factors are key to securing longer periods:

• Stable income (recent job changes may be viewed negatively)

• Consistent tax payment record (any unpaid taxes can be a serious issue)

• Alignment between job duties and visa category

• Stability of the sponsoring organisation (employer)

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In other words, it is no longer sufficient to “prepare just before renewal”. Immigration authorities assess ongoing stability and consistency over time.

Consider Permanent Residence or the Highly Skilled Professional System

As costs increase, it becomes increasingly important to shift from “renewing repeatedly” to “reducing the need for renewals altogether”.

Permanent residence eliminates the need for visa renewals entirely. While the initial application cost will be higher, it can significantly reduce both financial and administrative burdens in the long term. It also provides greater flexibility for career changes and life events.

The Highly Skilled Professional (HSP) system is another option. Although it is points-based, it offers various benefits, including:

• A 5-year period of stay

• Accelerated eligibility for permanent residence

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Depending on one’s academic background, professional experience, and income level, the path to permanent residence may be shorter than expected.

Carefully Consider the Timing of Job Changes

Changing jobs or starting a business is often a positive step in one’s career. However, from an immigration perspective, timing can significantly affect the outcome.

For example, changing jobs immediately before a visa renewal may result in the application being assessed similarly to a new application. This can lead to shorter periods of stay or, in some cases, a higher risk of refusal.

For this reason, it is often advisable to align career decisions with immigration procedures — for example, changing jobs after renewal.

However, if the nature of the work changes substantially, it is important to consider whether the new role still falls within the scope of the current visa status. If it does not, an application for a Change of Status of Residence will be required.

Conclusion

Going forward, even small differences in decision-making can lead to significant differences in cost and flexibility over several years.

Early and strategic planning is essential.

If you are unsure about your visa renewal, or would like advice on the timing of your application, please feel free to get in touch.

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