Japan is raising visa fees starting July 1, marking the first such increase since 1978. Single-entry visas will rise from 3,000 to 15,000 Yen, while multiple-entry visas will jump to 30,000 Yen. Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi attributed the decision to rising inflation and significant exchange rate fluctuations.
Why is Japan increasing visa fees now?
The Japanese government is adjusting its pricing structure to account for economic shifts. According to Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi, inflation and the volatility of exchange rates necessitated the change. During a press conference, Motegi stated that the decision followed a process of careful consideration.
How much will the new visa costs be?
The new fee structure represents a significant percentage increase for travelers requiring formal documentation. The changes apply to all applications submitted on or after July 1. Below is a comparison of the previous rates versus the new costs based on official government figures.
| Visa Type | Old Fee (Yen) | New Fee (Yen) |
|---|---|---|
| Single-entry | 3,000 | 15,000 |
| Multiple-entry | 6,000 | 30,000 |
In practical terms, a single-entry visa will cost approximately 75 Swiss Francs, up from roughly 15 Francs. Multiple-entry visas will rise to about 150 Swiss Francs from the previous 30 Francs.
Who needs a visa to enter Japan?
The impact of these changes depends heavily on your citizenship. Many travelers, including those from Switzerland, will see no change in their travel costs. Due to mutual visa-exemption agreements, Swiss citizens can travel to Japan for up to 90 days without obtaining a visa.
However, the increased fees will apply to those staying longer than 90 days or citizens from countries that do not have an exemption agreement. According to the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, countries requiring a visa include India, Ukraine, Sri Lanka, Jamaica, and Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Where will the extra visa revenue go?
The Japanese government intends to use the additional funds to address the administrative challenges of a rising foreign population. Rather than simply increasing treasury reserves, the revenue is earmarked for specific infrastructure and social services.
Planned expenditures include:
- Improving the administration and management of the growing foreign resident population.
- Expanding language programs to facilitate better integration.
- Strengthening measures to prevent and manage illegal stays.
Will higher costs reduce tourism numbers?
Despite the price hike, officials do not expect a decline in visitor numbers. Japan saw a record number of international guests in 2025. The government believes the current economic climate will keep the country attractive to travelers.
The primary driver for this optimism is the weak Yen. Even with higher visa administrative costs, Japan remains a cost-effective destination for many international tourists. The economic advantage of the exchange rate appears to outweigh the increased cost of entry documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do the new visa fees take effect?
The new rates apply to all visa applications submitted starting July 1.
Do Swiss citizens need to pay the new fee?
No, if you are traveling for less than 90 days, you can enter Japan under the current visa-exemption agreement.
Why is the fee increasing after so long?
The Japanese government cited inflation and fluctuations in the exchange rate as the primary reasons for the first increase since 1978.
Will this affect short-term tourists?
Only tourists from non-exempt countries or those planning to stay longer than 90 days will be affected by the price change.
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