Japan’s Shocking Visa Fee Hike: What It Means for Foreign Workers and Students

Published on November 24, 2025

Japan is currently considering a substantial increase in residency visa fees for foreigners, a move that has divided the expatriate community. This plan, aimed at aligning the costs of residency visas with those in Western countries, has raised concerns about its potential to worsen the country’s ongoing labor shortages. The proposed fee hikes are expected to put additional pressure on the labor market and may cause unease among prospective international students and other foreign nationals who live and work in Japan.

The Purpose Behind the Fee Increase

The Japanese government has stated that the additional revenue generated from these higher residency fees will be directed towards improving the living conditions for the increasing number of foreign residents in the country. Additionally, the funds will be allocated to strengthen efforts to deport illegal immigrants, according to a report by the Yomiuri Shimbun. The government plans to introduce a bill next year that will amend the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Law, a move that is expected to gain support from both lawmakers and local citizens.

This decision comes at a time when Japan is facing growing concerns about the rising number of immigrants and the impact of overtourism on the country. With immigration numbers increasing, the government seems to be attempting to balance the rising foreign presence with the need for greater control over immigration policies. However, the decision to raise residency visa fees is not without its critics, particularly among the expatriate community.

Potential Impact on Japan’s Labor Market

Japan has long been grappling with a severe labor shortage, particularly in industries such as healthcare, construction, and hospitality. The country has been increasingly reliant on foreign workers to fill these gaps, and many businesses have come to depend on foreign nationals to sustain their operations. However, the proposed visa fee increases could place further strain on Japan’s already strained labor market.

The rise in residency visa fees could deter potential workers from coming to Japan, especially those who may find the new costs prohibitive. The proposed permanent residency visa fee would rise from its current rate of 10,000 yen (approximately US$63) to a significant 100,000 yen (about US$639). This steep increase could dissuade long-term foreign residents from applying for permanent residency, as the financial burden may be too great for many to bear.

Furthermore, the cost of renewing a residence card would also see a substantial hike. Applicants would need to pay 40,000 yen, a significant increase from the current 6,000 yen. This change could further complicate the situation for foreign nationals who are already struggling with the high cost of living in Japan.

Concerns Among International Students

The proposed visa fee hikes also raise concerns among international students, who have long viewed Japan as an attractive destination for higher education. The higher fees could serve as a deterrent to prospective students who are already dealing with the high costs associated with studying abroad. Many international students rely on part-time work to support themselves while they study, and the additional financial burden of higher visa fees could push some to reconsider their plans to study in Japan.

International students play a crucial role in Japan’s universities, contributing to the academic and cultural diversity of the student body. By increasing visa fees, Japan risks losing a significant portion of this valuable population, which could ultimately hurt the country’s educational institutions and its international reputation as a hub for higher education.

Growing Divide Between Government and Foreign Residents

The proposed changes have caused a rift between the Japanese government and the foreign resident population. Many members of the expatriate community argue that the increase in residency visa fees will make it even more difficult for foreigners to live and work in Japan. They fear that this move will alienate foreign workers, making it more difficult for Japan to attract the talent it needs to address its labor shortages.

While the government emphasizes the need to address immigration control and the growing foreign resident population, the foreign community in Japan views the fee increase as a sign of growing hostility towards immigrants. This has led to a sense of unease and frustration among foreign nationals, who feel that their contributions to the country are being undervalued.

Broader Societal Concerns: Immigration and Overtourism

The debate over residency visa fees comes at a time when Japan is also grappling with concerns over rising immigration numbers and overtourism. The influx of foreign workers, tourists, and immigrants has raised questions about Japan’s capacity to manage this growth effectively. Some citizens have expressed concerns that the increasing number of foreign nationals could strain public services, housing, and other infrastructure, contributing to social tensions.

The Japanese government’s efforts to curb illegal immigration and manage the growing foreign population are reflected in the proposed visa fee hikes. By increasing the cost of residency, the government hopes to encourage more controlled immigration and ensure that the foreign population contributes to the country’s economy in a sustainable way. However, this approach has its critics, who argue that it may disproportionately affect those who are already facing economic hardship.

A Delicate Balance Between Control and Integration

As Japan navigates these complex issues, it faces the challenge of balancing immigration control with the need for a diverse and robust workforce. The proposal to raise residency visa fees is part of a broader effort to manage the influx of foreign nationals while also addressing issues related to illegal immigration and social integration.

The success of this plan will depend on how well the government can manage the competing interests of local citizens, expatriates, and foreign workers. It will also require careful consideration of the impact on Japan’s labor market, education system, and overall economy.

In conclusion, Japan’s plan to raise residency visa fees for foreigners has sparked significant debate. While the government’s intentions to improve conditions for foreign residents and enhance immigration control are clear, the potential consequences for Japan’s labor market and its relationship with the expatriate community remain uncertain. The outcome of this proposal will depend on how effectively Japan can balance the need for immigration control with its reliance on foreign workers to address critical labor shortages.