- Introduction: Preparing for the Reported Fee Increase
- Chapter 1: What’s Expected to Change? The Complete Picture of the Proposed Immigration Law Reform
- Chapter 2: Potential Impact on Foreign Residents and Countermeasures to Consider
- Chapter 3: Potential Impact on Employers and Countermeasures to Consider
- Chapter 4: International Comparisons and System Considerations
- Chapter 5: Expected Legal Reform Timeline and Future Developments
- Chapter 6: Professional Guidance and Considerations
- Chapter 7: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q1: When would the permanent residence permission fee increase take effect?
- Q2: If I don’t currently meet permanent residence permission requirements, should I rush my application?
- Q3: What if my company won’t cover the fees?
- Q4: Who would be eligible for the fee reduction system?
- Q5: What are the benefits of converting to Highly Skilled Professional status?
- Q6: Would fees apply to all family members?
- Q7: How much does it cost to hire an administrative scrivener?
- Conclusion: Consider Taking Action on What You Can Address Now
Introduction: Preparing for the Reported Fee Increase
On February 22, 2026, the Asahi Shimbun reported some potentially significant changes ahead.
The government reportedly plans to include substantial increases in fees for status of residence procedures in the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act amendment bill, which is scheduled for Cabinet approval in March and submission to an extraordinary session of the Diet.
Most notably, the permanent residence (PR) permission application fee is expected to increase from the current ¥10,000 to ¥200,000—a proposed 20-fold increase.
Fees for renewing or changing status of residence would also increase from the current flat rate of ¥6,000 to as much as ¥100,000, depending on the period of stay.
If enacted, this legal reform would significantly impact approximately 4.13 million foreign residents living in Japan, as well as HR managers and business owners who employ foreign nationals.
In this article, as an administrative scrivener specializing in visa applications and status of residence procedures, I’ll provide a clear explanation of the reported details of this legal reform and the steps that foreign residents and employers should consider taking.
Chapter 1: What’s Expected to Change? The Complete Picture of the Proposed Immigration Law Reform
1-1. Proposed Introduction of the Japan Electronic Travel Authorization (JESTA)
By fiscal year 2028, the government plans to launch the Japan Electronic Travel Authorization (JESTA), essentially Japan’s version of ESTA.
This system would conduct pre-screening for visitors from the 74 countries and regions currently exempt from visa requirements for short-term stays.
Similar to America’s ESTA and Europe’s ETIAS, travelers would need to apply online before entry and obtain authorization. Without authorization, boarding an aircraft would not be permitted.
The screening would check whether applicants have criminal records, deportation history, or other grounds for denial of landing under immigration law.
While initially targeting short-term visitors, the following groups have reportedly been added to the screening scope after further consideration:
- Some transit passengers changing planes in Japan (to prevent illegal entry disguised as transit)
- Passengers on designated cruise ships who temporarily disembark through simplified procedures
The government positions this as part of its “Zero Illegal Overstay Plan.”
JESTA authorization would require a fee, likely set with reference to America’s ESTA ($40, approximately ¥6,000).
1-2. Proposed Substantial Fee Increases for Status of Residence Procedures
The most impactful change in this proposal is the increase in fees payable upon approval for status of residence procedures (typically via revenue stamps).
Under current regulations, the legal ceiling for fees is set at ¥10,000, with actual fees at immigration counters uniformly at ¥6,000 (¥5,500 for online procedures), regardless of the period of stay.
Permission for permanent residence also currently costs ¥10,000.
These fees are proposed to increase dramatically as follows:
▼ Status of Residence Renewal/Change
- Ceiling: ¥10,000 → ¥100,000
- Actual fees (to be determined by Cabinet Order):
- Period of stay 3 months or less: approximately ¥10,000
- Period of stay 1 year: approximately ¥20,000-30,000
- Period of stay 5 years: approximately ¥70,000
▼ Permission for Permanent Residence
- Ceiling: ¥10,000 → ¥300,000
- Actual fee: approximately ¥200,000
In other words, for those renewing with a 5-year status of residence, fees would jump from ¥6,000 to ¥70,000—approximately 12 times higher. Permanent residence permission applications would increase from ¥10,000 to ¥200,000—a proposed 20-fold increase.
1-3. Proposed Introduction of Fee Reduction System
Alongside the fee increases, a fee reduction system would reportedly be introduced for those with financial hardship or other special circumstances.
However, for permanent residence permission applications, only the following would be eligible for fee reductions:
- Spouses and children of Japanese nationals
- Spouses and children of permanent residents
- Spouses and children of special permanent residents
This means that individuals residing in Japan on work visas or as highly skilled professionals could not receive fee reductions when applying for permanent residence permission, even if facing financial difficulties.
1-4. Reported Use of Fees and Fiscal Concerns
The government cites the following reasons for the proposed fee increases:
- ✓ Japan’s fees have been too low compared to other countries
- ✓ Rapid increase in foreign residents (approximately 4.13 million as of end-2025)
- ✓ Securing funding for programs helping foreigners learn Japanese language and Japanese systems
However, according to media reports, the Ministry of Finance is considering using some of the increased revenue from foreign nationals for policies not directly related to foreign resident support, such as expanding free high school tuition and abolishing the provisional gasoline tax rate.
For fiscal year 2026, the government reportedly anticipates approximately ¥225 billion in increased revenue from status of residence fee increases, visa issuance fee hikes, and increases to the international tourist tax paid upon departure.
While 60% would fund foreign resident-related measures, the remaining 40% would reportedly be redirected to other policies.
Chapter 2: Potential Impact on Foreign Residents and Countermeasures to Consider
2-1. For Those Considering Permanent Residence Permission
The proposed increase from ¥10,000 to ¥200,000 for permanent residence permission applications is substantial.
If you currently meet permanent residence permission requirements or expect to meet them in the near future, you may want to consider applying during fiscal year 2026, before any potential fee increase takes effect.
Basic requirements for permission for permanent residence include:
- ✓ Residence in Japan for at least 10 years in principle (at least 5 years with work or residence status)
- ✓ No criminal record (fines or imprisonment)
- ✓ Fulfillment of tax obligations
- ✓ Holding the longest available period of stay for current status of residence
- ✓ No public health concerns
- ✓ Sufficient assets or skills to maintain independent livelihood
However, residence period requirements are relaxed for:
- Spouses of Japanese nationals/permanent residents/special permanent residents: 3+ years of actual marriage and 1+ years of continuous residence in Japan
- Children of Japanese nationals/permanent residents/special permanent residents: 1+ years of residence in Japan
- Highly Skilled Professional with 70+ points: 3+ years of continuous residence
- Highly Skilled Professional with 80+ points: 1+ years of continuous residence
If you meet the requirements or expect to meet them within this year or next, consider consulting a specialist early and beginning preparations.
The potential ¥190,000 difference is substantial.
2-2. Strategic Timing Considerations for Status of Residence Renewals
Fees for renewal and change of status of residence are also expected to increase significantly.
Particularly noteworthy is that fees would vary based on the period of stay:
- 3 months: ¥10,000
- 1 year: ¥20,000-30,000
- 5 years: ¥70,000
At first glance, you might think “5 years is more expensive!” but looking long-term, the calculation differs.
For example, assuming 15 years of residence in Japan:
▼ Renewing annually
¥20,000-30,000 × 15 times = ¥300,000-450,000
▼ Renewing every 5 years
¥70,000 × 3 times = ¥210,000
In other words, obtaining longer periods of stay could reduce total costs significantly.
If you currently hold 1-year or 3-year status of residence, consider consulting a specialist about whether you might qualify for 5 years at your next renewal.
Requirements for obtaining 5-year period of stay generally include:
- ✓ Good moral character
- ✓ Sufficient assets or skills to maintain independent livelihood
- ✓ Residence deemed beneficial to Japan’s interests
- ✓ In principle, 3+ years of residence with the longest available period of stay
- ✓ Fulfillment of tax obligations
- ✓ Fulfillment of public obligations
2-3. Potential Utilization of the Fee Reduction System
A fee reduction system would reportedly be established for those facing financial hardship.
However, for permanent residence permission applications, this would be limited to spouses and children of Japanese nationals, permanent residents, and special permanent residents.
For renewals and changes of status of residence, reductions may be available to a broader range of applicants, though details remain unclear.
To receive fee reductions, documentation proving financial hardship (income certificates, welfare recipient certificates, etc.) would likely be required.
Those who may qualify should monitor upcoming Cabinet Orders and ministerial ordinances and prepare necessary documentation.
2-4. Potential Impact on Dependent and Spouse Visa Holders
Those residing on dependent or spouse status would also need to pay fees at each renewal.
For larger families, the household impact could be considerable.
For example, for a family of four (husband on work status, wife and two children on dependent status) renewing 1-year status:
▼ Current system
¥6,000 × 4 people = ¥24,000/year
▼ After proposed reform
¥20,000-30,000 × 4 people = ¥80,000-120,000/year
Annual costs would increase by approximately ¥50,000-100,000.
Families residing together should consider longer-term residence plans, potentially including permanent residence permission as part of their strategy.
Chapter 3: Potential Impact on Employers and Countermeasures to Consider
3-1. Expected Increase in Employment-Related Costs
Many companies cover fees for status of residence procedures for their foreign employees.
If enacted, this reform would significantly increase that burden.
For example, for a company employing 10 foreign staff with 5-year status under Highly Skilled Professional or Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services categories:
▼ Current system (simultaneous renewal every 5 years)
¥6,000 × 10 people = ¥60,000/5 years
Annual equivalent: ¥12,000/year
▼ After proposed reform
¥70,000 × 10 people = ¥700,000/5 years
Annual equivalent: ¥140,000/year
Annual burden would increase by approximately ¥130,000.
The more foreign employees, the greater the potential impact.
For companies with 50 foreign employees, the increase could jump from ¥60,000 to ¥700,000 annually.
3-2. Reviewing Benefit Programs
Companies that previously covered all status of residence procedure fees as benefits may need to reconsider their policies.
Possible responses to consider include:
- Continue full company coverage (maintain as benefit)
- Shift to partial employee burden (e.g., 50% company, 50% employee)
- Introduce tiered system (company coverage percentage varies by years of service)
- Create subsidy program for permanent residence permission acquisition
Regardless of approach, thorough communication with foreign employees to gain understanding would be essential.
Suddenly announcing “starting next month, you pay” could damage morale and potentially trigger resignations.
3-3. Revising Hiring Plans and Budgets
The Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) for hiring foreign talent could increase, potentially requiring budget and hiring plan revisions.
Total costs for foreign talent recruitment include:
- Recruitment expenses (job ads, placement agency fees)
- Certificate of Eligibility application costs
- Visa acquisition support costs
- Travel expenses
- Housing arrangement costs
- Japanese language training costs
- Status of residence renewal fees ← This is expected to increase dramatically!
- Administrative scrivener fees
When preparing fiscal 2026 budgets, consider factoring in potential increased costs for status of residence procedures.
3-4. Considering the Highly Skilled Professional System
The Highly Skilled Professional status is a preferential system for foreign nationals with advanced expertise.
It’s awarded based on a point system, available to those with 70+ points.
Benefits of Highly Skilled Professional status:
- ✓ 5-year period of stay granted
- ✓ Significantly relaxed permanent residence permission requirements (3 years for 70+ points, 1 year for 80+ points)
- ✓ Spouse permitted to work
- ✓ Parents permitted to accompany (under certain conditions)
- ✓ Domestic helpers permitted to accompany (under certain conditions)
Given that permanent residence permission fees may increase 20-fold, the strategy of obtaining Highly Skilled Professional status to achieve earlier permanent residence permission could become much more attractive for both companies and employees.
Companies employing talented foreign nationals should consider exploring conversion to Highly Skilled Professional status.
3-5. Updating Internal Regulations and Employment Rules
It’s advisable to clarify status of residence procedure fee responsibilities in internal regulations and employment rules.
Items to consider including in regulations:
- Burden-sharing ratio for status of residence application/renewal fees
- Coverage of permanent residence permission application fees (full/partial/none)
- Coverage of administrative scrivener fees
- Handling of status of residence denials
- Fee responsibility for employee-initiated status changes
- Fee settlement rules upon resignation
To help prevent potential disputes, consider updating regulations in anticipation of the legal reform.
Chapter 4: International Comparisons and System Considerations
4-1. Comparison with Other Countries’ Fees
The government reportedly explains that “Japan’s fees have been too low by international standards.”
Indeed, the following comparison suggests Japan’s current system is relatively inexpensive:
▼ Visa Issuance Fees
- Japan (current): Single-entry visa approximately ¥3,000
- United States: Tourist/business visa $185 (approximately ¥28,000)
- European countries: €90 (approximately ¥16,000)
▼ Electronic Travel Authorization
- US ESTA: $40 (approximately ¥6,000)
- EU ETIAS: €7 (approximately ¥1,200) *Expected to start 2026
▼ Status of Residence Related
Direct comparison is difficult as systems equivalent to Japan’s status of residence vary by country, but many nations charge higher fees than Japan.
However, the key consideration isn’t just “raising fees because they’re cheap,” but rather how to balance the benefits foreign talent brings to Japan’s economy against procedural costs.
4-2. Consistency with Tourism Goals
The government aims to attract 60 million tourists to Japan by 2030.
Meanwhile, it’s reportedly advancing policies that could increase burdens on foreigners, including JESTA implementation and departure tax hikes.
The tourism industry has voiced concerns that “higher fees may deter some travelers from choosing Japan.”
For family trips especially, fees for all members could create substantial burden.
If tourism promotion is a goal, balancing accessible entry with appropriate screening becomes a key consideration.
4-3. Considerations Regarding Foreign Talent Acceptance Policies
Japan faces serious labor shortages due to declining birthrate and aging population.
The government has been expanding foreign talent acceptance, including enhanced Specified Skilled Worker programs.
However, substantially increasing fees for status of residence procedures could create significant burdens for foreigners hoping to work in Japan.
Some experts have noted the apparent tension between expressing a desire for foreign talent while increasing associated financial burdens.
If Japan is committed to accepting and retaining foreign talent, careful consideration of fee structures and their impacts would seem warranted.
Chapter 5: Expected Legal Reform Timeline and Future Developments
5-1. Reported Legal Reform Schedule
As of February 2026, the reported anticipated schedule is:
- ✓ March 2026: Cabinet approval of Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act amendment bill, submission to extraordinary session of the Diet
- ✓ Spring-Summer 2026: Diet deliberation and potential passage
- ✓ During fiscal 2026: Potential implementation of status of residence procedure fee increases
- ✓ During fiscal 2028: Planned start of Japan Electronic Travel Authorization (JESTA)
However, the schedule may change depending on Diet deliberations and political circumstances.
The proposed 20-fold increase in permanent residence permission fees especially is likely to face scrutiny during legislative review.
Stay current with the latest information to make informed decisions about application timing.
5-2. Monitoring Cabinet Orders and Ministerial Ordinances
Even after potential passage of the law, actual fee amounts would be “determined by Cabinet Order.”
Details of the reduction system and online application discount rates would also be decided through ministerial ordinances and guidelines.
Currently, figures like “approximately ¥20,000-30,000 for 1-year status” and “approximately ¥200,000 for permanent residence permission” have been reported, but final amounts won’t be confirmed until Cabinet Orders are promulgated.
Administrative scriveners and other specialists will be monitoring Cabinet Order and ministerial ordinance contents to provide clients with accurate, up-to-date information.
If tracking the latest information yourself is difficult, consider consulting a trusted specialist for guidance.
5-3. Possibility of Transitional Measures
Major system changes sometimes include transitional measures.
For example:
- Applications filed before the effective date might use current fees
- Gradual fee increases over a certain period after implementation
- Special provisions for long-term residents
Whether such transitional measures will be established would depend on Diet deliberations and Cabinet Order contents.
Those considering permanent residence permission especially should carefully monitor developments, as transitional measures could affect optimal application timing.
Chapter 6: Professional Guidance and Considerations
6-1. Early Consultation and Preparation
If enacted, this legal reform could significantly impact both foreign residents and employers.
For those considering permanent residence permission especially, the difference between applying before or after a potential fee increase could be ¥190,000.
“Do I meet the requirements?”
“When might be the best time to apply?”
“What documents would I need?”
These questions can often be addressed through consultation with specialists.
Administrative scriveners, as specialists in status of residence procedures, can provide guidance tailored to individual circumstances.
6-2. Information Gathering and Regular Monitoring
Immigration law is subject to periodic amendments.
Beyond this proposed reform, further system changes may occur in the future.
Consider regularly gathering information from reliable sources and checking for developments that may affect you.
Recommended information sources:
- Immigration Services Agency official website
- Administrative Scriveners Association websites
- Communications from trusted administrative scriveners
- Foreign resident support organization updates
Staying informed can help you avoid missing important changes.
6-3. Companies Should Consider Response Policies Early
Companies employing foreign nationals may want to consider policies on the following points and communicate plans to employees:
- Status of residence procedure fee burden rules
- Calculation of potential fiscal 2026 budget impact
- Whether benefit program revisions may be needed
- Implementation of foreign employee briefings
- Consideration of Highly Skilled Professional conversion support
Point ④ is especially important.
Rather than suddenly announcing fee changes, consider holding sessions to explain the proposed reform background, company policy considerations, and potential employee action items.
Creating an environment where foreign employees can work with confidence can also support corporate international competitiveness.
6-4. Considering Online Applications
Under the proposed reformed system, using online applications is expected to result in fee discounts.
The Immigration Services Agency has been enhancing online application systems in recent years, making many procedures available online.
Online application benefits:
- Expected lower fees
- No need to visit immigration offices
- Online screening status checks
- No document mailing required
However, online applications do require a certain level of digital literacy.
If concerned, requesting assistance from administrative scriveners who handle online applications is one option to consider.
Chapter 7: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: When would the permanent residence permission fee increase take effect?
A: Implementation is reportedly planned for fiscal year 2026, but the exact effective date hasn’t been determined yet. Monitor Diet deliberations and check for the latest information as developments unfold.
Q2: If I don’t currently meet permanent residence permission requirements, should I rush my application?
A: Applying without meeting requirements would likely result in denial. Meeting requirements comes first. However, if you’re close to meeting requirements, you may want to prepare to apply before any potential fee increase takes effect.
Q3: What if my company won’t cover the fees?
A: First, consider discussing with your company. While many companies cover foreign employees’ status of residence procedure fees, it’s not a legal requirement. If coverage isn’t available, consider strategies like obtaining longer stay periods to reduce total costs over time, or eventually acquiring permanent residence permission.
Q4: Who would be eligible for the fee reduction system?
A: It would reportedly be available for financial hardship or special circumstances, but for permanent residence permission applications, eligibility would be limited to spouses and children of Japanese nationals, permanent residents, and special permanent residents. Detailed requirements remain to be clarified.
Q5: What are the benefits of converting to Highly Skilled Professional status?
A: You would receive a 5-year period of stay, and permanent residence permission requirements would be significantly relaxed (3 years for 70+ points, 1 year for 80+ points). Given that permanent residence permission fees may increase to ¥200,000, the benefit of obtaining permanent residence permission earlier through Highly Skilled Professional status could become substantially greater.
Q6: Would fees apply to all family members?
A: Yes. Each family member with status of residence would pay fees at renewal. For large families, the burden could increase significantly, so consider strategies like obtaining longer stay periods or acquiring permanent residence permission.
Q7: How much does it cost to hire an administrative scrivener?
A: Costs vary by procedure type and complexity, but general guidelines are:
- Status of residence renewal: approximately ¥30,000-80,000
- Status of residence change: approximately ¥50,000-100,000
- Permanent residence permission application: approximately ¥100,000-200,000
These are in addition to fees payable to immigration authorities (which could increase substantially if the reform is enacted).
Conclusion: Consider Taking Action on What You Can Address Now
The proposed 2026 immigration law reform, if enacted, could represent a significant system change affecting both foreign residents and employers.
The proposed 20-fold increase in permanent residence permission application fees especially would represent a substantial burden increase for many people.
【For Foreign Residents: Three Actions You Might Consider】
✅ Action ①: Verify whether you meet permanent residence permission requirements
→ If you do, consider whether applying during fiscal 2026 makes sense for your situation
✅ Action ②: Review your next renewal period of stay
→ Explore whether qualifying for the longest possible period (5 years) might be feasible
✅ Action ③: Consider consulting a specialist
→ Discuss your situation with an administrative scrivener to understand your options
【For Employers of Foreign Nationals: Three Actions You Might Consider】
✅ Action ①: Estimate potential impact and consider reflecting in fiscal 2026 budget
→ Calculate: number of foreign employees × potential fee increase amount
✅ Action ②: Review internal systems and regulations
→ Consider clarifying fee burden rules and updating employment regulations as appropriate
✅ Action ③: Communicate with foreign employees
→ Consider holding briefings on the proposed legal reform and communicating company policy considerations
The timeline before potential reform implementation may be limited.
Rather than postponing consideration, you may want to start with steps you can address now.
If you have questions about status of residence or visa applications, please feel free to contact us.
We administrative scriveners are committed to supporting your residence in Japan.
📰 Reference Article:
Pre-screening for foreign visitors to expand; permanent residence permission fee from ¥10,000 to ¥200,000 (Asahi Shimbun Digital)
https://digital.asahi.com/articles/ASV2P45W5V2PUTIL012M.html
