Japan to Increase Residence Permit Fees for Foreign Nationals – Permanent Residency to Be Priced at 200,000 Yen Starting October 2026
- Xavi
- Jul 3
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 3
Tokyo, 3 July 2026 — The Japanese government has announced a major increase in fees for residence permit procedures for foreign nationals, with the cost of obtaining permanent residency set to rise dramatically from 10,000 yen to 200,000 yen (approximately $1,240).
The draft plan, released following the recent revision of the Immigration Control Act, aims to address rising administrative costs as the number of foreign residents in Japan reaches record highs.
New Residence Permit Fee Structure (Effective October 1, 2026)
Type of Procedure | Current Fee (Over Counter) | New Fee (Over Counter) | New Fee (Online) |
Residence Status Change/Renewal (up to 3 months) | 6,000 yen | 10,000 yen | 10,000 yen |
Residence Status Change/Renewal (1 year) | 6,000 yen | 33,000 yen | 27,000 yen |
Residence Status Change/Renewal (5+ years) | 6,000 yen | 75,000 yen | 65,000 yen |
Permanent Residence Permit | 10,000 yen | 200,000 yen | N/A |
Fee Discounts: Applicants in financial hardship, including recognised refugees, may qualify for reduced fees.
Background and Government Justification
Justice Minister Hiraguchi Hiroshi explained that the number of foreign residents in Japan has hit a record high, leading to increased costs for managing immigration and residence procedures. He stated that foreign nationals should bear part of this financial burden to ensure sufficient resources for fair and efficient administration.
This latest fee hike follows several other recent measures tightening rules for foreign nationals, including higher visa fees and stricter naturalization requirements.
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Impact on Foreign Residents and Applicants
Permanent Residency: The jump to 200,000 yen makes permanent residency significantly more expensive, potentially deterring some long-term residents.
Short and Medium-Term Stays: Moderate increases for shorter stays, with online applications remaining slightly cheaper.
Financially Vulnerable Groups: Discount provisions offer some relief for refugees and low-income applicants.
The government will invite public opinions starting Friday, with the plan scheduled for implementation on October 1, 2026.
Broader Context of Japan’s Immigration Policy Tightening
Japan has been gradually tightening immigration-related fees and requirements in response to a record number of foreign residents and rising administrative costs. These changes are part of a larger strategy to manage immigration sustainably while addressing labour shortages in specific sectors.
For the latest Japan visa and residence permit fee updates, permanent residency cost changes, immigration policy news 2026, and guidance for foreign nationals in Japan, visit: visasupdate.com/blog/categories/japan
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