Recent media reports have highlighted a potential increase in immigration-related application fees in Japan, which could significantly affect both foreign nationals and companies employing them.

According to reports, the Immigration Services Agency of Japan presented estimated figures for raising the upper limits of residence-related application fees during a House of Representatives Judicial Affairs Committee session on April 10. The proposal is included in amendments to the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act.

Currently, the fee for change or extension of residence status is 6,000 yen. This amount may be revised to a structure based on the length of the permitted period of stay. For example, fees may be around 10,000 yen for shorter periods and up to approximately 70,000 yen for a five-year period.

The fee for permanent residence, which is currently 10,000 yen, may be increased to around 200,000 yen.

These figures remain estimates, and the final amounts will be determined by Cabinet Order. The new fee structure is expected to be introduced within the current fiscal year.

This revision would represent a significant financial impact not only for foreign nationals but also for companies employing foreign workers. Previously, the relatively low fees meant that the question of who bears the cost—employee or employer—was not always a major issue. However, if the fees increase substantially, this may become an important consideration.

With Japan's working-age population expected to continue declining after 2030, companies seeking to retain skilled foreign workers may need to clarify how immigration-related costs are handled. Clearly defining cost allocation in employment contracts or work rules may also become part of corporate recruitment strategies.

Our office will continue to monitor developments and provide updates as new information becomes available.