Japan's immigration agency said on August 25 that foreigners meeting financial hardship and humanitarian criteria will be eligible for reduced fees when visa application and renewal charges rise from October 1.
Under the revision plan, visa application and stay renewal fees will increase to improve services and management resources. However, authorities have also set exemption and reduction criteria to support special cases.
The financial criteria apply to individuals with low income or those facing economic difficulties, with confirmation from local government bodies or documents proving income below specified thresholds. The humanitarian criteria cover cases of serious illness, accidents, natural disasters, or other exceptional circumstances reviewed by authorities.
The move comes as Japan works to strengthen border management and improve administrative services. The fee adjustments will be applied uniformly nationwide, including at immigration offices and online application points.
Experts say the public disclosure of fee reduction criteria will help foreigners in Japan understand their rights and obligations, while facilitating a more transparent and fair visa application and renewal process.
