Japan is set to implement significant increases in its immigration fees starting October 1, 2026. Foreign residents applying for permanent residence will experience the most drastic change, as their application fee will jump from ¥10,000 to an astounding ¥200,000 – a 20-fold, or 1,900%, increase.
The revised system also replaces the current flat fee for changing or extending residence status. From October 2026, the application cost will depend on the length of the approved stay. Notably, online applications will generally offer a cheaper alternative for longer residence periods.
Understanding Japan’s New Residence Status Application Fees (Effective Oct 2026)
Here’s a breakdown of the new fees for changing or extending your Japan residence status, effective October 1, 2026:
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Up to 3 months: ¥10,000 (Physical or Online filing)
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1 year: ¥33,000 (Physical filing) / ¥28,000 (Online filing)
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3 years to under 5 years: ¥64,000 (Physical filing) / ¥54,000 (Online filing)
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5 years or more: ¥75,000 (Physical filing) / ¥65,000 (Online filing)
Currently, the fee for these applications is a flat ¥6,000 for physical filings and ¥5,500 for online submissions, regardless of the approved duration. The online option was initially introduced to streamline the process and reduce immigration office visits, and it remains available for eligible applicants.
Japan Permanent Residence: The Most Significant Fee Hike
The fee for a permanent residence application in Japan is set to skyrocket from ¥10,000 to ¥200,000 once the new schedule is implemented. This represents an enormous 1,900% increase over the current fee.
This fee adjustment is particularly impactful for Indian professionals, students transitioning to long-term employment, and families already residing in Japan. What was once a relatively inexpensive application will now involve a substantial financial commitment.
The overall trend signals a clear shift in Japan’s immigration policy: moving away from low, largely uniform charges to a system where securing longer-term residence or permanent status comes with a significantly higher price tag.
Act Now: File Before October 1, 2026, to Save Money on Japan Immigration Fees
The submission date of your application is crucial. Any applications for residence status or permanent residence submitted before October 1, 2026, will be processed under the current, lower fee structure. This applies even if the immigration authorities make their final decision after this date.
However, applications filed on or after October 1, 2026, will automatically be subject to the new, higher rates.
Therefore, for Indian residents in Japan eligible for permanent residence or needing to extend/change their status soon, carefully considering your filing date could lead to substantial cost savings.
Key Information for Indian Residents in Japan Regarding New Immigration Fees
If you have a Japan residence application due around this period, it is highly advisable to review the new fee schedule in relation to your anticipated authorized stay. This will help you make an informed decision on the optimal time and method for filing your application.
For those seeking longer residence periods, remember that online filing offers considerable savings compared to physical submissions. Specifically, you can save ¥5,000 for a one-year approval, and ¥10,000 for periods of three years to five years or more.
It’s important to note that these new residence-status fees do not directly impact Indian travelers visiting Japan on short-term tourist visas. The fee changes are specific to long-term residence procedures, including status changes, extensions, and permanent residency, not standard tourist entry.
Conclusion: Impact and Recommendations on Japan Immigration Fees
From our perspective, these updated fees represent a significant financial impact for Indian nationals seeking to build long-term lives in Japan. However, strategic planning, utilizing online filing options, and submitting applications before the deadline could lead to substantial cost savings for eligible applicants.
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