Visa news

Travelers planning to visit Japan in the coming years may need to prepare for higher visa application costs. According to several Japanese media reports, the Japanese government is considering a significant increase in visa processing fees, which could take effect from the fiscal year 2026.

The proposal is part of a broader budget plan that has already been approved by Japan’s Cabinet and is currently under further discussion before any official decision is finalized.

Japan visa fees could increase up to five times

According to the proposal, the fee for a single-entry visa may increase from the current 3,000 yen to approximately 15,000 yen.

Converted to Vietnamese currency, this would mean:

Current fee: about 3,000 yen (~500,000 – 520,000 VND)

Proposed fee: about 15,000 yen (~2,500,000 – 2,600,000 VND)

If approved, the cost of a tourist visa to Japan could increase roughly fivefold compared to the current fee.

Proposed adjustments to other visa-related fees

In addition to single-entry visas, several other visa and residency-related fees are also being considered for adjustment.

These figures are still under discussion and may change after the Japanese government gathers public feedback and completes the policy review process.

Why Japan plans to raise visa fees

Officials from Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that Japan’s current visa fees are relatively low compared to many developed countries.

For example:

Visa processing fees in the United States can range from USD 420–470 for certain visa types

In Germany, visa fees are approximately USD 109

In contrast, a Japanese tourist visa currently costs only around 3,000 yen (less than USD 25).

The proposed adjustment aims to align Japan’s visa fees more closely with international standards. Authorities also noted that the low fee structure over the years has sometimes led to applicants submitting incomplete or unserious applications.

Notably, Japan’s visa fees have remained largely unchanged since 1978.

Increasing pressure from a record number of foreign residents

According to Japanese media reports, as of June 2025, the number of foreign residents in Japan had reached approximately 3.9 million, the highest level on record.

This rapid increase has placed additional pressure on Japan’s immigration system, which must process a growing number of visa and residency applications.

Raising visa fees is considered one measure to help:

upgrade immigration processing systems

improve management of foreign residents

provide additional resources for immigration authorities.

In addition to visa fee adjustments, Japan is also reviewing several other policies to better manage tourism and immigration, including:

increasing the departure tax at airports

extending the minimum residency period required for naturalization from 5 years to around 10 years.

Currently, foreigners can apply for Japanese citizenship after five consecutive years of residence. Some lawmakers believe this requirement is relatively short compared to other countries.

What travelers should keep in mind

If the proposal is approved, the new visa fee structure could take effect starting from fiscal year 2026. This may directly impact individuals planning to travel, study, or work in Japan.

Travelers are advised to closely follow official announcements from Japanese embassies and consulates for the latest updates regarding visa fees and regulations.

Preparing visa documents early and staying informed about policy changes can help ensure a smoother application process and avoid unexpected cost increases.

Japan visa support with PBJP Travel

If you are planning a trip to Japan in the near future, preparing your visa application early may help you avoid potential fee increases once the new policy takes effect.

PBJP Travel (Phượt Bụi JP) provides assistance for Vietnamese travelers preparing for trips to Japan, including visa support and travel planning services.

Services offered by PBJP Travel include:

Consultation on Japan visa application requirements

Guidance on preparing financial documents and travel itineraries

Reviewing and organizing application documents before submission

Assistance with flight booking and Japan travel planning

With experience supporting many Vietnamese travelers visiting Japan independently, PBJP Travel helps clients prepare clear and complete visa applications, saving time and reducing potential complications.

For more information or consultation regarding Japan visa applications, you may contact PBJP Travel:

 Tel / Zalo / WhatsApp: +84 393 250 295