In July 2026, Japan's Immigration Services Agency (ISA) announced a draft reform revising the fee structure for various residence status procedures. According to the ISA's announcement, fees for applications such as extension of period of stay and change of status of residence will shift to a new fee structure based on the length of the residence period granted. The reform also includes revisions to the fee for permanent residency (PR) applications.
In this article, we — as Gyoseishoshi (Immigration attorney) specialists — break down the key points of this reform and what it means for foreign nationals living in Japan, as well as for companies employing foreign staff.
Overview of the Proposed Fee Reform
The draft reform primarily outlines the following new fee amounts:
| Category | New Fee |
| Period of stay: 3 months or less | ¥10,000 |
| Period of stay: 1 year | ¥33,000 |
| Period of stay: 3 years | ¥64,000 |
| Period of stay: 5 years or more | ¥75,000 |
| Permanent residency application | ¥200,000 |
Importantly, these fees are not paid at the time of application, but rather at the time the application is approved.
In addition, online applications are expected to carry lower fees than in-person applications submitted at immigration counters.
Transition Period: What You Need to Know
Under the draft reform, applications submitted by September 30, 2026 will still be subject to the current (pre-reform) fee structure.
If you are planning to apply for a renewal, a change of status of residence, or permanent residency, it is essential to check your application timing now and begin preparing as early as possible.
Impact on Foreign Residents and Employers
Once this reform takes effect, the fees payable upon approval will increase significantly compared to current rates.
This makes careful planning essential for:
- Individuals planning to renew their residence status
- Individuals considering a change of status of residence
- Individuals planning to apply for permanent residency
- Companies employing foreign staff
All of the above should pay closer attention than ever to application timing and cost planning.
Permanent residency applications in particular often require considerable preparation time. We recommend starting well in advance — gathering required documents and confirming eligibility requirements early.
Why Consult a Gyoseishoshi (Immigration Attorney)?
Every residence status application involves different required documents and supporting evidence, depending on the individual applicant's circumstances.
To apply at the right time under this new fee structure, it's important to plan ahead across the following steps:
- Confirming your current residence status and period of stay
- Determining the optimal timing for your application
- Reviewing and preparing required documents
- Preparing supporting materials tailored to your individual situation
With this system reform on the horizon, now is the time to consult a specialist early and prepare according to a well-planned schedule — the key to a smooth application process.
IMS is Here to Support You
IMS Legal Professional Corporation provides comprehensive support for a wide range of residence status procedures, including:
- Permanent residency applications
- Extension of period of stay
- Change of status of residence
- Business Manager visas
- Work visas
- Dependent / Spouse visas and family-related residence statuses
This newly announced fee reform could have a significant impact on both foreign residents and the companies that employ them.
If you have any questions about how this reform may affect your specific case, please feel free to contact IMS for a consultation.
This article is intended for general informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. For guidance specific to your situation, please consult directly with a qualified Gyoseishoshi.
