If you are a student, job seeker, or working holiday maker in Japan, you need to know that the Immigration Services Agency has revised its fees for changing your residence status and extending your stay, effective October 1, 2026. These new fees now depend on the specific length of stay you are granted, and the payment methods for online applications have also changed. Make sure you understand these updates to avoid any confusion during your next immigration procedure.
Key Changes to Japan's Residence Fees in 2026
Starting from October 1, 2026, the Japanese government has implemented a revised fee structure for several key immigration procedures. This update affects foreign nationals applying for a change of status of residence, an extension of their period of stay, or permanent residency.
If you are currently studying at a Japanese language school, preparing to enter a university, or transitioning to a work visa, these changes will directly impact your administrative planning.
Who is Affected by the New Fees?
The timing of your application determines which fee structure applies to you:
- Applications submitted on or after October 1, 2026: You will be subject to the newly revised fee rates.
- Applications accepted on or before September 30, 2026: You will pay the older fee rates, even if your application is approved and the permit is issued on or after October 1, 2026.
Because visa regulations and individual circumstances vary, we do not provide specific visa eligibility judgments or legal advice. You should always check your status and requirements directly with the official Immigration Services Agency or consult a professional.
How the Fees are Calculated
Under the revised Cabinet Order, the fees for changing your status of residence or extending your period of stay are no longer flat rates. Instead, the fee is determined based on the specific category of the period of stay that you are granted.
This means you will need to pay close attention to the duration of the visa extension or change you receive, as this will dictate the final cost of your processing fee.
Major Changes in Payment Methods
Along with the fee adjustments, the Immigration Services Agency has updated how these fees must be paid. The payment method now depends entirely on how you submit your application.
#### 1. Online Applications (Cashless Options) If you submit your application through the online residence application system, you will no longer use physical revenue stamps. Instead, payments are processed through a private business operator designated by the Commissioner of the Immigration Services Agency.
- You can pay your fees at a convenience store.
- You can pay via bank transfer.
- If you use internet banking, you can complete the entire payment cashless.
#### 2. In-Person Applications (Counter Payments) If you submit your application in person at an immigration office counter, you must continue to pay using physical revenue stamps (収入印紙 - *shunyu inshi*).
Tips for Buying Revenue Stamps
Because the fees now vary depending on the granted period of stay, you will need to purchase specific denominations of revenue stamps. To ensure a smooth process when collecting your new residence card, keep the following tips in mind:
- Buy stamps in advance: The convenience stores and shops located inside regional immigration offices have limited stock. When you receive your notification postcard instructing you to collect your results, buy the required stamps beforehand at a large post office.
- Use cash only: Revenue stamps can only be purchased with cash. Credit cards, mobile payments, and electronic money are not accepted for stamp purchases.
- Minimize the number of stamps: Try to purchase the stamps in the minimum number of physical sheets possible (for example, a single high-value stamp instead of multiple small-value stamps).
Fee Reductions and Exemptions
The revised Immigration Control Act includes provisions for individuals facing economic difficulties or other special circumstances. Under these rules, the government may reduce or entirely exempt the fees for changing a status of residence, extending a period of stay, or obtaining permanent residency.
If you believe you qualify for these measures, you can consult the specific guidelines for fee reductions and exemptions on the official Immigration Services Agency website.
Settling into Your New Life in Japan
Navigating immigration procedures, school registrations, and language classes can be overwhelming when you first arrive. To make this transition easier, many newcomers choose to stay in a furnished monthly apartment first. This provides a comfortable, hassle-free home base where you can focus on your studies and administrative tasks without worrying about buying furniture or setting up utilities immediately.
Make sure to keep track of these new immigration rules as you plan your academic and professional journey in Japan.
Sources
- 出入国在留管理庁「令和８年１０月１日付け在留許可手数料の額の改定等について | 出入国在留管理庁」(checked 2026-10-05)
- 出入国在留管理庁「令和８年１０月１日付け在留許可手数料の額の改定等について | 出入国在留管理庁」(checked 2026-10-05)
This article was created by OHAYO Stay based on the sources above (edited, reorganized and translated). It is not an official publication.
Rules and dates can change. Always confirm with the official source before you apply.