Japan may soon become a more expensive destination for international travellers, as the government considers increasing visa fees for foreign visitors for the first time in decades. Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya announced that the government is reviewing current visa charges, which have remained largely unchanged since the late 1970s. He stated that officials would examine global benchmarks to determine suitable adjustments while taking into account the potential impact on inbound tourism. According to Iwaya, Japan’s visa fees are currently among the lowest in the developed world.
Japan Reviews Low Visa Fees Amid Record Surge in Foreign Tourist Arrivals
At present, a single-entry visa to Japan costs around ¥3,000 (approximately ₹1,700), while a multiple-entry visa is about ¥6,000 (approximately ₹3,500). These rates are significantly lower compared to those charged by the United States and most European countries. Even within the Group of Seven (G7) and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), Japan’s visa fees rank among the lowest.
The proposed review comes amid a surge in tourism. Between January and September 2025, Japan welcomed 31.65 million foreign visitors — a 17.7% increase compared to the same period in 2024. The nation reached the 30-million mark faster than ever before and is now on track to surpass 40 million visitors by year-end, driven by a weak yen and the return of Chinese tourists.
Japan Considers Raising Departure Tax and Revising Tourist and Residency Fees
When asked whether higher visa fees could curb overtourism, Iwaya said the government would monitor the situation but did not believe the increase would have a direct impact. In addition to visa revisions, Japan is also considering raising the “departure tax” — currently ¥1,000 — levied on both citizens and foreigners. Officials are reviewing other travel-related charges, including possible changes to consumption tax exemptions for tourists and residency-related fees such as ¥10,000 for permanent residence permission and ¥6,000 for in-person extensions, last revised in 1981.
Summary:
Japan is reviewing its long-standing visa fees, unchanged since the 1970s, to align with global standards amid record tourism growth. With 31.65 million visitors in 2025, officials consider raising visa and departure taxes, and revising tourist and residency fees, while monitoring potential impacts on overtourism and inbound travel.
