Hello everyone!
Today, we’ll break down the latest fee system for renewing or changing your Status of Residence (Visa), as well as applying for Permanent Residency in Japan.
Under this system update, fees are structured according to the length of the approved period of stay. There are also cost differences between in-person window applications and online applications, along with new payment methods.
Here is a clear summary of the key updates, guidelines, and important precautions!
Table of Contents
1. When Do the New Fees Apply? (Effective Date Rule)
2. New Fee Breakdown by Period of Stay
3. Requested Period vs. Actual Granted Period (Immigration Discretion)
4. Payment Methods and Important Precautions
5. Advice for Employers and HR Professionals
6. Benefits of Hiring an Administrative Scrivener or Lawyer
7. Summary
1. When Do the New Fees Apply? (Effective Date Rule)
The most common question is: “Which rate applies to my application?”
The fee is determined by your application submission date, NOT the date your permit is granted.
If you submitted your application on or after the effective date, the new fee structure applies.
If you submitted your application before the effective date, the old fee structure applies—even if your permit is approved after the change.
2. New Fee Breakdown by Period of Stay
Previously, fees were a flat rate (6,000 yen for renewals/changes; 10,000 yen for Permanent Residency). Under the current system, fees vary depending on the length of the granted period of stay.
Additionally, submitting your application online is cheaper than applying in person at the immigration window.
1-Year Period
In-Person (Window): 33,000 yen
Online Application: 27,330 yen (includes system processing fee)
3 Years to Less Than 5 Years
In-Person (Window): 64,000 yen
Online Application: 56,550 yen (includes system processing fee)
5 Years or More
In-Person (Window): 75,000 yen
Online Application: 65,550 yen (includes system processing fee)
Permanent Residence Application
In-Person (Window): 200,000 yen
Note: Permanent Residence applications cannot be submitted online. Payment must be made at the immigration window using revenue stamps (Shuunyu Inshi).
*Online application totals include system processing handling fees (approx. 330 to 550 yen).
3. Requested Period vs. Actual Granted Period (Immigration Discretion)
On your application form, you can write your desired period of stay (e.g., 5 years). However, the length of stay actually granted is decided solely at the discretion of the Immigration Services Agency.
For example, you might request 5 years, but after examination, receive a 1-year permit.
In this scenario, your fee will be based on the actual granted period (1 year = 33,000 yen at the window), rather than the period you originally requested.
4. Payment Methods and Important Precautions
1. In-Person (Window) Applications
As before, you will purchase Revenue Stamps (Shuunyu Inshi) for the amount specified on your notification postcard and present them at the immigration window.
Because fee amounts are higher now, small convenience stores may not carry enough high-value stamps. It is safest to purchase them at a local Post Office or at the store inside the Immigration Bureau.
2. Online Applications
If you apply online, follow the instructions in your payment notification email to pay via Pay-easy (ATM / Internet Banking) or at a Convenience Store terminal.
Credit cards and QR code payments (such as PayPay) are not accepted.
Direct over-the-counter payments at bank tellers are not supported; please use an ATM or online banking.
If you apply for multiple family members at once, system processing fees are charged separately for each individual item.
3. Watch Out for Phishing Scams
With online payments in place, be cautious of fraudulent emails pretending to be from the Immigration Services Agency or the Ministry of Justice.
Always check the sender’s email address and domain name before clicking any payment links.
5. Advice for Employers and HR Professionals
If your company employs foreign nationals, this system structure directly impacts corporate operations and budgets:
Cost Savings: Encouraging employees to use the online application system lowers procedural fees.
Accounting Details: When processing multiple employee applications together, remember that system handling fees apply per individual application.
Document Quality: Setting up an internal review process helps prevent employees from unintentionally receiving short 1-year permits due to missing or weak supporting documents.
6. Benefits of Hiring an Administrative Scrivener or Lawyer
Because long-term permits significantly reduce recurring renewal fees and administrative work, getting a 3-year or 5-year period of stay is more valuable than ever.
To avoid getting a 1-year permit due to incomplete explanations or missing evidence, consider consulting an Administrative Scrivener (Gyouseishoshi) or Legal Practitioner (Lawyer).
Support for Longer Periods: Professionals help prepare detailed statements of reason and supporting documents tailored to your background, maximizing your chances of securing a 3-year or 5-year stay.
Agency Submission & Collection: They can handle submission and passport/card collection on your behalf, saving you hours of waiting in line at immigration.
Up-to-Date Legal Knowledge: They stay informed on tightening screening criteria, which is especially critical for complex procedures like Permanent Residence applications.
7. Summary
Fees are based on your application date, not the approval date.
Online applications are cheaper than applying in person.
You pay for the period actually granted, not the period requested.
Always verify payment email domains to protect against phishing scams.
Consulting an administrative scrivener or lawyer can help secure longer stays and streamline the entire process.
If you have questions about your specific situation or expected costs, reaching out to a qualified immigration professional is highly recommended!
