Tokyo: The Japanese government is set to increase its visa issuance fees starting fiscal year 2026, marking the first fee hike in 48 years, according to official sources on Wednesday. This revision will also impact fees for foreign nationals seeking to change or renew their residence status and will be included in Japan’s upcoming comprehensive economic measures. The new measure is scheduled to be implemented starting in April.

According to Philippines News Agency, the current visa issuance fees stand at 3,000 yen for a single-entry visa, significantly lower than the USD185, or approximately 29,000 yen, charged for a US visa. Similarly, a British visa costs 127 pounds, or about 26,000 yen, and a European Union visa costs 90 euros, or approximately 16,000 yen. With the rising costs of visa issuance, the Japanese government aims to align its fees with those of other major countries.

The government plans to utilize the increased revenues to fund initiatives addressing the issues of overtourism.