Japan Visa Fees to Increase from July 1, First Revision Since 1978

The Japanese government has decided to raise visa issuance fees for foreign nationals from July 1, marking the first increase since 1978 as the country responds to inflation, the depreciation of the yen, and the need to align its charges more closely with other Group of Seven economies.

According to the information available from recent reports, the Visa fees for a single-entry visa is expected to rise from ¥3,000 to ¥4,000, while the fee for a multiple-entry visa will increase from ¥6,000 to ¥8,000.

Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi said at a press conference that the government does not expect the move to have an immediate impact on inbound tourism.

The decision comes at a time when Japan has been witnessing a strong recovery in international travel. The weaker yen has made the country a more attractive destination for foreign tourists, while inflation has increased administrative and service-related costs for the government.

Visa fees are collected by Japanese embassies and consulates in the currency of the country or region where the application is submitted. Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs notes that charges may vary depending on nationality and purpose of visit, and some applicants may be exempt from fees.

Japan has maintained relatively low visa issuance charges for decades. The existing basic fee structure of about ¥3,000 for single-entry visas and ¥6,000 for double-entry or multiple-entry visas has been in place for many years, making the proposed revision administratively significant even though the direct cost increase for most travellers may remain limited.

The fee revision also reflects a broader policy concern. As inbound travel expands and Japan receives more foreign visitors, the administrative burden on consular and immigration services has increased. Bringing visa fees closer to G7 levels appears to be part of a wider effort to rationalise service costs without discouraging tourism.