Japanese government approved sharp increase in visa fees for foreign nationals, the first adjustment since 1978.
From 1 July, a single-entry visa will cost 15,000 yen, up from 3,000 yen ($18.69; £14). A multi-entry visa will now cost 30,000 yen, increased from 6,000 yen.
Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi said the changes were made to “reflect inflation and exchange rate changes.” He also said it is not expected to immediately affect tourism.
The Japanese yen has been weakening since 2021 and is near its lowest level in 40 years. Combined with travel recovery after the pandemic, this has led to a big rise in tourists. Japan received a record 42.7 million foreign visitors last year.
In May, Japan also approved a law to increase other fees for foreigners. The maximum fee for permanent residency applications will rise to 300,000 yen, compared to the current 10,000 yen. Changing or extending residency status will also cost up to 100,000 yen instead of 10,000 yen.
Officials supporting the changes say Japan wants its visa and residency fees to be closer to those of other G7 countries.
For example, in the United States, non-immigrant visa fees are between $185 and $315, while in the UK, a short-term visa of up to six months costs £135.
