Japan has substantially increased fees and requirements for foreigners seeking permanent residency status, according to policy changes that took effect in early October. The new permanent residency fee stands at 200,000 yen, representing a 20-fold increase from previous costs. The changes come as part of broader modifications to the country’s immigration framework under Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s administration.
The fee increases triggered significant demand before implementation, with applicants queuing at immigration offices across the country. Tokyo’s primary immigration bureau reported wait times exceeding seven hours during the preceding days. Applicants also face new eligibility standards, including requirements for stable income at or above the Japanese national average, pension benefits equivalent to 30 years of contributions to the employee pension system, and basic Japanese language proficiency.
The fee adjustments represent the second major charge increase in recent months. In July, Japan implemented a five-fold increase in visa fees for all foreigners, marking the first such increase in five decades. Authorities characterized that increase as necessary to account for inflation and currency fluctuations. Individuals facing financial hardship or designated as refugees are eligible for fee reductions.
These policy shifts occur against the backdrop of Japan’s rapidly changing demographics. The foreign resident population exceeded 4.12 million at the end of 2025, reflecting a 9.5% year-over-year increase. Japan’s ageing population has increasingly depended on foreign workers to address labor shortages, yet immigration remains a politically contentious issue domestically. Takaichi has indicated that her government is implementing these measures to manage population growth concerns while ensuring both Japanese citizens and foreign residents can coexist safely.
The stricter requirements for permanent residency are scheduled to take full effect next April, prompting increased interest in Japanese language education. Language schools and proficiency testing organizations have reported higher enrollment numbers as prospective applicants prepare for future applications.
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