Japan will increase visa fees by 400% from July 1, 2026, marking the country’s first revision of the charges since 1978.
The new rates will apply to visa applications accepted by Japanese embassies and consulates on or after July 1.
Under the revised structure, the fee for a single-entry visa will rise from 3,000 yen to approximately 15,000 yen.
Meanwhile, the fee for a multiple-entry visa will increase from 6,000 yen to around 30,000 yen.
Pakistanis Will Face Higher Japan Visa Fees
Pakistan does not appear on Japan’s official list of 74 countries and territories eligible for short-term visa-free entry.
As a result, Pakistani citizens travelling on ordinary passports must generally obtain a visa before visiting Japan. They will therefore be affected by the higher charges.
First Increase Since 1978
Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi said the government revised the fees to reflect inflation and changes in foreign exchange rates since 1978.
The Japanese yen has weakened significantly since 2021 and has traded near levels not seen in decades.
At the same time, Japan has experienced a sharp recovery in international tourism following the COVID-19 pandemic.
The country welcomed a record 42.7 million international visitors in 2025 as the weaker yen made accommodation, food, shopping and transport relatively affordable for many foreign travellers.
Despite the steep increase, Motegi said the government did not expect an immediate impact on inbound tourism.
Japan Seeks Fees Closer to Other G7 Countries
Supporters of the increase argue that Japan’s existing visa charges remain lower than those imposed by several other major economies.
For comparison, non-immigrant visa fees in the United States generally range from $185 to $315, depending on the category.
Meanwhile, a standard UK visitor visa allowing a stay of up to six months costs £135.
Japanese authorities believe the revised charges will bring the country’s visa system closer to those of other G7 economies.
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