Japan Lifts Permanent Residency Fee 20‑Fold to 200,000 Yen

Foreign nationals seeking permanent residency in Japan now pay a 200,000‑yen fee, a twenty‑fold increase from the previous 10,000 yen, as part of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's broader immigration overhaul.

The new cost coincides with stricter eligibility rules – applicants must now prove an income at or above the national average, hold a Japanese pension plan, and demonstrate a baseline level of language competence.

Queues outside immigration offices in Tokyo were swelled this week, with wait times exceeding seven hours, as residents hurried to submit paperwork before the deadline.

The move follows earlier July changes that raised visa fees five‑fold and seeks to manage a rapid foreign‑resident swell, which topped 4.12 million at the end of 2025, a 9.5% rise year‑on‑year.

Some critics argue the fees punish foreign workers that help fill Japan's labour gap, pointing out the steep financial burden and the need for higher income thresholds.

From October 1, the fee for changing status or extending stay will vary by duration – 10,000 yen for up to three months, up to 75,000 yen for five‑year renewals – with discounts for those facing hardship or refugees.

Applicants will also be required to show pensions equal to 30‑year employee plans, or provide a financial asset equivalent if they fall short.

Micaiah Stevens, 37, a long‑time resident of Tokyo, said the new rules feel 'a bit too convenient' for foreigners and threatens their tax contributions.