Japan has significantly increased the cost of tourist and business visas, with the new fees taking effect from July 1, 2026. The move marks the country’s first visa fee revision since 1978 and affects both single-entry and multiple-entry visas.

Under the new pricing, a single-entry tourist visa now costs ¥15,000 (approximately €90), up from ¥3,000 (€18). The fee for a multiple-entry visa has also risen fivefold, increasing from ¥6,000 (€36) to ¥30,000 (€180).

First Fee Increase in Nearly 50 Years

Japanese authorities said the higher charges reflect inflation and major currency fluctuations that have occurred over the past five decades. The revised fees apply to tourist and business visas issued from July 1, 2026.

Broader Immigration Reforms Underway

The visa fee increase forms part of a wider package of immigration reforms. In May, Japan’s House of Councillors approved legislation that would substantially increase fees for long-term residents.

If implemented, applications for permanent residency could cost up to ¥200,000 (around €1,200), compared with the current fee of ¥10,000 (approximately €60).

JESTA Electronic Travel Authorization Planned

Japan also confirmed plans to introduce the Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorization (JESTA) by 2028. The new pre-travel screening programme will operate in a similar way to the United States’ ESTA and the United Kingdom’s ETA systems.

Once launched, JESTA will require travellers from 74 visa-exempt countries to obtain electronic travel authorisation before departing for Japan. The system is intended to strengthen border security while streamlining the arrival process for eligible visitors.

The changes come as Japan continues to modernise its immigration procedures while managing growing international visitor numbers and preparing for further tourism growth in the coming years.