Sourced fact
The News
Japan has raised the fee for permanent residency for non-Japanese citizens by 20 times to 200,000 yen (approximately $1,270) starting from October 1st. This change also includes new income, health insurance, and Japanese language requirements. Prior to this increase, the fee was only 6,000 yen. These changes have led to long queues outside immigration offices across Japan as applicants tried to submit their applications before the increase took effect. In July last year, the Japanese government also announced a fivefold increase in visa fees for all foreigners, marking the first such increase in visa fees in 50 years.
According to BBC News, these changes are part of a series of immigration policy changes under Prime Minister Kishida Fumio's leadership. The aim is to manage the rapid increase in the number of foreign residents in Japan. In July, Japan announced a fivefold increase in visa fees for all foreigners, marking the first such increase in visa fees in 50 years.
Analysis & context
Analysis & Context
Analytically, Japan faces significant challenges in managing the increasing number of foreign residents. With a 9.5% increase in the number of foreign residents in 2025, immigration has become a sensitive issue in Japanese politics. At the same time, Japan is suffering from a labor shortage due to its aging population, making it dependent on foreign workers to meet its needs.
In the broader context, Japan aims to strike a balance between the need for foreign workers and the concerns of local residents about social change. The government seeks to implement policies that ensure that foreign residents and Japanese citizens can live safely and securely. However, these new measures may have a negative impact on Japan's attractiveness to foreign workers, particularly with the increase in fees and requirements.
Economically, these changes may have an impact on the Japanese economy. Foreign workers may find it difficult to meet the new requirements, potentially reducing the number of applicants for work in Japan. On the other hand, these changes may contribute to stability in the Japanese labor market and reduce pressure on social services.
