Japan’s immigration fees may increase, but Japan’s current system is different from many other countries because fees for change of status, extension of stay and permanent residence are generally paid when permission is granted, not when the application is filed. This article compares Japan with the U.S., Canada, Australia, Germany and the U.K.
apan is moving toward JESTA, a new electronic travel authorization system for certain visa-exempt short-term visitors. The bill also includes a review of statutory upper limits for immigration-related fees, including change of status, extension of period of stay, and permanent residence. This article explains the practical points visitors, residents, and employers should know.
Japan’s immigration fee reform bill has moved forward in April 2026. Reported benchmark figures include approximately ¥30,000 for a 1-year period, ¥60,000 for a 3-year period, ¥70,000 for a 5-year period, and ¥200,000 for permanent residence. However, the actual fees are not yet in force and will be set later by Cabinet Order.
Japan is reportedly tightening naturalization screening from April 2026, with emphasis on around 10 years of residence, 5 years of tax records, and 2 years of social insurance records. This article explains the difference between statutory requirements and screening practice.
A practical guide to immigration offices in the Kanto area. This article explains which office to check first, what to confirm before visiting, reception hours, ticket-number issues, and reservation-related points for major offices such as Shinagawa, Yokohama, Kawasaki, Tachikawa, Saitama, Chiba, Matsudo, Mito, and Takasaki.