Japan Visa Fee Hike 2026 | First Increase in 50 Years Amid Tourism Boom

The government of Japan has announced plans to raise its visa application fees for foreign visitors, marking the first such revision in nearly five decades. The move is driven by Japan’s unprecedented inbound tourism surge and concerns about overtourism management. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what the changes mean for travellers and how to plan ahead.

1. Why the Fee Hike?

Japan’s visa fees have remained virtually unchanged since 1978, as the cost of a single-entry visa currently stands at ¥3,000 (INR 1728.42) and a multiple-entry visa at ¥6,000 (INR 3456.84).

With a record influx of tourists—over 20 million in the first half of 2025 alone—the tourism-management system is under pressure.

Officials say the revisions are needed to align with rates in other major economies and to offset rising tour-administration costs.

2. What Will Change—and When?

The exact new fee amounts haven’t been finalised yet, but Japan plans to align its visa charges with those in G7 and OECD countries.

In addition to visa fees, Japan is also considering increasing the departure tax currently ¥1,000 (INR 576.14) and introducing a digital travel-authorization system (JESTA) by 2028.

The changes are expected to take effect from fiscal year 2026.

3. How Will Travellers Be Affected?

For short-stay travellers, a higher visa fee (possibly multiple times the current ¥3,000 (INR 1728.42) could raise overall tour costs.

Travellers from visa-exempt countries will still avoid the visa fee, but may face higher departure or other border-control charges.

For long-stay visas or frequent visitors (e.g., business or tourism), the multiple-entry visa cost could rise significantly.

4. Will Surging Tourism Continue?

Japan’s inbound visitor numbers are booming—reports show over 21.5 million arrival in the first half of 2025, and projections suggest annual totals could exceed 40 million.

The weak yen and post-pandemic rebound are strong drivers of the tourist rush. Yet the government sees fee hikes as a tool to manage overtourism, particularly at popular sites.

5. What Should Indian and Asian Travellers Do Now?

For travellers planning a trip before the fee hike takes effect, lodging visa applications sooner might lock in current charges.

Compare cost increases across other regions—Japan’s tariff rise may still keep it competitively priced versus Western destinations.

Factor the increase into your travel budget, especially for group or multi-entry travel.

Consider off-peak or emerging Japanese destinations where visitor fees and crowds may be lower.

6. Broader Implications for Travel & Tourism

Japan’s move reflects a global trend: destinations recalibrating traveller fees in light of rising visitor numbers and sustainability concerns. Countries like Japan may shift from low-fee competition to value-based tourism, emphasising higher spend per visitor over sheer volume.

Travellers may also see more systems like JESTA (digital authorisation) and dual-pricing models for locals vs. foreigners.

In Summary

Japan’s upcoming visa and departure-tax hikes mark a major turning point for travellers. While the country remains a top destination, trip budgets may rise and planning timelines become more critical—especially for 2026 travel. For those still keen to visit Japan, the time to act may be now.