The Immigration Services Agency published the confirmed fee schedule in late August. The new amounts apply to applications filed on or after 1 October 2026.
What the fees become
A change of status of residence or an extension of period of stay currently costs ¥6,000 at the counter, whatever period you are granted. From October the fee scales with the period granted.
At the window, that runs from ¥10,000 for three months or less up to ¥75,000 for a period of five years. Online applications are charged less at each band — around ¥65,000 at the top.
Permanent residence goes from ¥10,000 to ¥200,000.
What that changes in practice
The scale creates an incentive that did not exist before. A longer period of stay now costs more, which means the immigration office's decision on how long to grant you has a direct price attached.
It also front-loads the cost of settling. A permanent residence application at ¥200,000 is a serious commitment, particularly for a family where two adults are applying.
Applications filed by 30 September
The old amounts apply to anything filed by 30 September, even if the decision comes later. If your period of stay allows you to file before then, filing early saves a substantial sum.
Check what your current period expires and whether you are inside the window for an early renewal.
Paying
Window applications continue to use revenue stamps. The agency advises buying them at a post office in advance, because immigration offices hold limited stock — and at these amounts, that advice is worth following.
Online applications move off revenue stamps entirely to convenience store or bank payment, including internet banking. A settlement charge applies on top.
Reductions and exemptions
Reduced fees apply to applicants in financial hardship at a level comparable to welfare eligibility: ¥10,000 for a change of status or extension, ¥20,000 for permanent residence. Reductions must be claimed at a window, not online.
Full exemptions apply to diplomatic and official statuses and to certain Designated Activities categories.
Our 2026 fee changes page carries the full table, and the visa fees page explains how these differ from consular visa fees.
Source: Immigration Services Agency — October 2026 fee revision