The Japanese government is considering a major revision of immigration-related fees, raising the cost of Status Change and Status Extension applications from 6,000 yen to 30,000–40,000 yen, and increasing the Permanent Residence fee from 10,000 yen to over 100,000 yen.
This change—expected to take effect sometime in FY2026—could significantly impact both companies hiring foreign workers and foreign nationals living in Japan.
As IMS, a specialist in corporate immigration support, we summarize the key information, expected legal changes, and practical steps you should take now.
1. Overview: Japan Plans Major Increase in Immigration Fees
Proposed New Fees (Media Reports)
- Change of Status of Residence: 6,000 yen → 30,000–40,000 yen
- Extension of Period of Stay: 6,000 yen → 30,000–40,000 yen
- Permanent Residence Application: 10,000 yen → 100,000 yen or more
These figures are not yet confirmed and remain under government discussion.
Why Is Japan Increasing Immigration Fees?
- Rapid growth of Japan’s foreign resident population
- Budget shortages in immigration screening and integration programs
- Fees far lower than those of Western countries
- Higher user fees intended to stabilize immigration operations
2. Legal Background: Current Fee Cap Is “10,000 Yen”
Under the current Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act, immigration fees are legally capped at 10,000 yen. Therefore, the proposed fee increase requires:
- Amendment of the Immigration Control Act
- Revision of Cabinet Orders and Ministerial Ordinances
The government is expected to submit the amendment bill during the 2026 ordinary Diet session.
3. Expected Impact on Companies and Foreign Nationals
Impact on Companies Hiring Foreign Workers
- Significant increases in annual HR and immigration costs
- Employment contracts and internal rules must define:
- Who pays immigration fees
- Renewal timing
- Document preparation responsibilities
- Hiring and budgeting plans may require adjustments
Impact on Foreign Nationals Living in Japan
- Younger applicants in transition (e.g., Technical Intern → SSW, Student → Work) may face financial strain
- Renewals scheduled near the enforcement date may be significantly affected
IMS Professional Insight
- Early-application consultations are expected to surge before enforcement
- Heavy congestion occurred during the April 2025 fee revision
- Online application fees were lower last time, so a similar structure may be introduced
4. Timeline: New Immigration Fees Likely Starting in FY2026
The new fee structure may take effect sometime during FY2026.
Important: Applications submitted before the enforcement date will likely follow the old fee schedule.
This occurred during the April 2025 revision, with last-minute applications overwhelming immigration counters.
5. What Companies and Foreign Nationals Should Do Now (IMS Recommendations)
① Consider early filing for 2026 renewals or changes
Submitting early may help avoid higher fees.
② Update contracts and HR policies
- Clarify who pays immigration fees
- Define renewal timelines
- Specify document preparation responsibilities
③ Budget carefully if employing many SSW or technical workers
Mass renewals may result in significant cost increases.
④ Apply early for Permanent Residence
If PR fees exceed 100,000 yen, the financial barrier becomes much higher. Early submission is strongly recommended.
6. Expected Government Process and Decision Timeline
- Winter 2025 – Spring 2026: Amendment bill submitted to the Diet
- 2026: Parliamentary deliberations
- New fees determined via Cabinet Order and Ministerial Ordinance
- Enforcement date and transitional measures announced
- New fees take effect during FY2026
The next 6–12 months will be crucial for companies and foreign nationals.
7. Conclusion: A Major Fee Increase Is Highly Likely
Although not yet finalized, the current direction of government policy indicates a strong likelihood of:
- Higher immigration fees
- Budget adjustments for immigration services
- Alignment with Western fee standards
IMS will continue monitoring developments and providing timely updates.
If your company needs assistance preparing a Visa Renewal Schedule or planning for cost increases, please contact IMS.
