Japan to Raise Visa Fees for First Time in Nearly 50 Years

Japan is preparing to revise its visa application fees for the first time in nearly five decades as the country grapples with a booming inbound tourism sector. At present, a single-entry visa costs ¥3,000 (about US $20) and a multiple-entry visa is ¥6,000 (≈ US $40). These rates remain some of the most affordable worldwide when compared to short-stay fees of US $185 in the United States or US $177 in the United Kingdom.

The increase comes in response to an all-time high of 21.5 million international visitors during the first half of 2025, and rising administrative costs tied to processing and managing arrivals. The timing of the hike is expected in the next fiscal year following consultations and may include a shift to upfront fee collection, mirroring systems in the US and parts of Europe. The move signals Japan’s intent to balance welcome-mat hospitality with sustainable tourism management.

Source: indiatimes.com