
Japan raised the fee for permanent residency applications for foreigners to 200,000 yen on Thursday, a 20-fold increase from the previous 6,000 yen, as part of stricter immigration rules under Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s government.
The new policy also introduces income requirements, mandating applicants earn above the national household average of 5.75 million yen annually, and prove a pension equivalent to 30 years of contributions. A Japanese language test and knowledge of local customs and laws will also be required, with language assessments set to begin in April 2027.
Takaichi, a conservative leader who took office in October 2025, framed the changes as a response to public concerns over fairness and security amid a record foreign population of over 4.12 million, a 9.5% rise from 2024. On social media, she stated the measures aim to ensure “both Japanese citizens and foreigners can live safely and securely” .
The fee hike follows a fivefold increase in tourist visa costs in July, the first such rise in 50 years, which authorities attributed to inflation and currency fluctuations. Long queues formed outside immigration offices this week as applicants rushed to submit paperwork before the new rules took effect .
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