Japan is preparing its biggest visa fee increase in nearly half a century, making tourist visas five times more expensive for most foreign visitors entering the country.
The decision was approved at a government cabinet meeting on 19 June 2026 and will take effect on 1 July 2026. It is the first revision of Japan's visa fees since 1978.
The most immediate impact will be felt by tourists and business travellers from countries that require a visa to enter Japan. Under the new pricing structure, the fee for a single-entry visas will rise from ¥3,000 to ¥15,000. A multiple-entry visa, which allows travellers to visit Japan several times during a specified period, will increase from ¥6,000 to ¥30,000. The amounts are equivalent to roughly €87 and €175 respectively.
Japanese officials say the increase reflects nearly five decades of inflation and major changes in exchange rates. Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi said the government reviewed the charges because the existing system no longer reflected the true administrative cost of issuing visas and managing immigration procedures.
On a par with the West?
