Japan raises permanent residence fee 20x

Japan will increase fees for permanent residence and other residence permit procedures for foreign nationals from October 1, following a Cabinet decision on Tuesday.The fee for obtaining permanent residence will rise from 10,000 yen ($63) to 200,000 yen (over $1,250). Applicants must complete the procedure in person.The fee for renewing or changing residence status is currently 6,000 yen ($38) at an official counter and 5,500 yen ($35) online.From October 1, the fee for a stay of up to three months will be 10,000 yen ($63) for both counter and online applications.For a one-year stay, applicants will pay 33,000 yen ($205) at a counter and 27,000 yen ($170) online.The fee for stays of five years or longer will increase to 75,000 yen ($470) at a counter and 65,000 yen (over $400) online.The changes will take effect alongside a revision to Japan’s immigration control act.The government said it would reduce fees for applicants facing financial difficulties, including those recognised as refugees.Justice Minister Hiraguchi Hiroshi said the increases were necessary to implement a policy aimed at promoting an orderly society that coexists with foreign nationals.He said the measure was extremely meaningful and that he intended to ensure it was properly managed.