Japan Overhauls Immigration Fee Structure: Permanent Residence Fee Rises to ¥200,000 from October 2026

Following public notices issued on July 8, 2026, and cabinet ordinance confirmation on August 25–26, 2026, Japan’s Immigration Services Agency (ISA) has finalized a comprehensive restructuring of its residence permit fees. Taking effect on October 1, 2026, the new system replaces the long-standing flat-rate schedule with tiered pricing linked to the authorized length of stay granted and the application method used.

Detailed Fee Breakdown

Under the updated schedule, filing fees for Change of Status of Residence and Extension of Period of Stay shift from a flat JPY 6,000 (physical) or JPY 5,500 (online) to duration-based brackets:

Strategic Guidance & Grandfathering Provision

A crucial aspect of the government's announcement is the filing-date rule:

• Submission Benchmark: Any application for a Change of Status of Residence, Extension of Period of Stay, or Permanent Residence filed prior to October 1, 2026, will be processed under the current fee schedule (e.g., JPY 6,000 for extensions or JPY 10,000 for Permanent Residence).

• Adjudication Timing: The current fees apply as long as the application is formally received on or before September 30, 2026, even if the final decision or residence card issuance occurs after October 1.

Foreign residents and corporate sponsors eligible to submit renewal or status change filings are advised to file their applications prior to October 1, 2026, to take advantage of the lower fee rates.

This article is based on information procured from official sources and public portals. It is provided for general informational purposes and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Kindly consult the relevant public authority or an immigration advisor at the Legit Migrant for guidance specific to your circumstances.