Japan has announced a 20‑fold increase in the fee for foreign residents seeking permanent residency, raising the cost from 10,000 yen to 200,000 yen (about $1,270). The policy, released on 1 October, also introduces additional financial and language benchmarks that applicants must meet.
The rise comes as the country’s foreign population topped 4.12 million in late 2025, a record jump of 9.5 % over the year. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, who took office last October, has made immigration management a key priority, arguing that a growing population of workers is essential to address long‑term labour shortages caused by Japan’s aging demographics.
Japanese officials say the fee hike reflects inflation and exchange‑rate pressures, and will help offset the costs of a potential surge in residence approvals. They also warn that unchecked growth of foreign residents might strain public services and social cohesion.
In contrast, many expatriates and civil‑society groups view the new rule as discriminatory. One long‑time resident, Micaiah Stevens, described the fee as “a significant financial hurdle” that makes it harder to contribute to Japanese society. He added that the requirement to earn above the national average—currently 5.75 million yen a year—creates a barrier to those who, despite meeting other criteria, cannot secure high‑earning jobs.
The Japanese language proficiency addition, effective from April next year, is expected to boost enrolment in language courses and the Japanese‑Language Proficiency Test. Some scholars argue this could improve integration, while critics worry it disguises deeper exclusionary attitudes.
The policy change has already resulted in extended wait times at immigration offices; Tokyo’s main bureau reported queues of more than seven hours during the first week of the new fee structure. Protests in several cities have framed the move as a “tax on foreigners” rather than a regulatory necessity.
Earlier this year, Japan also raised visa fees five‑fold for all foreign nationals—another first in half a century—making the country the most expensive North‑Asian destination for employment and tourism. These tweaks reflect a broader strategy of tightening immigration controls while still courting skilled international talent.
Analysts predict that, while the higher fee may deter casual entrants, it may have little effect on highly skilled workers who can easily justify the expense. The long‑term impact remains unclear, as the balance between Japan’s economic needs and social perceptions of foreigners will continue to shape policy debates.
