SynopsisJapan has tripled its departure tax to three thousand yen for all travellers leaving the country. This increased levy aims to fund measures addressing overtourism and infrastructure needs. Visa fees for short-term tourist applications have also seen a significant rise. However, passport application fees for residents have been reduced to ease financial burdens. These changes are effective from July first, impacting future travel plans.AgenciesJapan has increased its International Tourist Tax, commonly known as the departure tax, from ¥1,000 to ¥3,000 for all travellers leaving the country from July 1. The move is part of the government's efforts to tackle overtourism and strengthen infrastructure as visitor arrivals continue to rise.The higher departure tax applies to both foreign visitors and Japanese nationals leaving Japan. It is automatically included in the price of airline and cruise tickets booked on or after July 1, meaning travellers do not have to pay separately at airports or seaports. Bookings made before July 1 are not affected by the increase.Revenue to fund overtourism measuresJapan introduced the departure tax in 2019. The government said the higher levy will help fund measures to address overtourism and improve the country's capacity and infrastructure to accommodate growing numbers of visitors.The departure tax currently generates around ¥50 billion in annual revenue. With the increase, the government expects annual collections to rise to about ¥120 billion.The tax hike comes as Japan continues to see record inbound tourism. The country welcomed about 42.4 million international visitors in 2025, the highest on record, and aims to attract 60 million visitors annually by 2030.Visa fees rise, passport charges reducedJapan has also increased fees for short-term tourist visas from July 1. The fee for a single-entry visa has increased from ¥3,000 to ¥15,000, while the fee for a multiple-entry visa has risen from ¥6,000 to ¥30,000.Travellers from 74 countries and regions, including the United States and South Korea, remain exempt from short-term visa requirements. However, visitors from India, China, the Philippines and Vietnam must continue to obtain visas before travelling.According to Japan's Foreign Ministry, Chinese nationals accounted for more than 70% of all short-term visa applications in 2025. The number of visas issued during the year was the second highest on record after 2019.At the same time, Japan has reduced passport application fees for its residents to offset the impact of the higher departure tax. From July 1, the fee for a 10-year passport application submitted online has been cut from ¥15,900 to ¥8,900. Fees for in-person applications have also been reduced by ¥7,000. (Join our ETNRI WhatsApp channel for all the latest updates)...moreElevate your knowledge and leadership skills at a cost cheaper than your daily tea.Subscribe Now