Japan raises residency fee for foreign nationals by twenty-fold

Japan has significantly increased residency fees for foreign nationals, raising the cost of permanent residency 20-fold to 200,000 yen ($1,270; £955). In addition to this hike, new income, pension, and Japanese-language requirements must be met. Long lines formed outside immigration offices as applicants attempted to meet the new criteria before the fee increases took effect.

These policy changes represent part of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's efforts to manage Japan's rapidly growing foreign population. In July, Japan also raised visa fees five-fold for the first time in 50 years to reflect inflation and exchange rate fluctuations. While immigration remains politically sensitive, Japan's ageing population is increasingly relying on foreign workers to fill labour shortages, leading to a record 4.12 million foreign residents in 2025, a 9.5% increase from the previous year.

However, Takaichi's government has acknowledged that some may feel concerned or unfairly treated by these changes, stating they are working to ensure orderly policies towards foreign nationals. The residency fee increase applies to non-permanent residents, who paid 6,000 yen previously for each residency status change or extension.

From October, fees vary based on the duration of stay sought, ranging from 10,000 yen for three months or less, to 75,000 yen for stays of five years or more. Applicants facing financial hardship or designated as refugees would receive discounts. To qualify for permanent residency, applicants must now earn a stable income above Japan's average of 5.75 million yen per household in 2024.

Additionally, starting next April, applicants will face stricter language requirements, including basic Japanese proficiency. This has caused a surge in enrollments for Japanese language schools and the Japanese-Language Proficiency Test. Applicants must also demonstrate pension benefits equivalent to those who have contributed to the employee pension system for 30 years, although financial assets can be considered if pension benefits fall short.