Japan's New Ordinance Raises Residency Fees for Foreign Nationals

Starting October, Japan will implement a new ordinance that significantly increases residency fees for foreign nationals. This change, part of the revised immigration control and refugee recognition law, affects those renewing or changing their residency status, with fees rising from a uniform ¥6,000 to as much as ¥75,000. The ordinance also introduces a substantial increase in the cost of applying for permanent residency.

Key Takeaways

• Residency fees for foreign nationals in Japan will increase significantly from October.
• Fees for residency extensions will vary based on the duration, with a maximum of ¥75,000.
• Permanent residency application fees will rise to ¥200,000.
• Reduced fees are available for those facing financial hardship or humanitarian conditions.
• The ordinance is part of a broader revision of Japan's immigration laws.

Who is Affected by the Change?

The ordinance affects all foreign nationals in Japan who need to renew or change their residency status. This includes temporary residents, long-term residents, and those applying for permanent residency. The fee changes apply to various residency extensions, ranging from three months to five years or more.

New Fee Structure

The new fee structure is tiered based on the length of the residency extension:

• Three-month extension: ¥10,000
• One-year extension: ¥33,000
• Three to under five years: ¥64,000
• Five years or more: ¥75,000

Applying for permanent residency will now cost ¥200,000, a significant increase from the previous ¥10,000.

Eligibility for Reduced Fees

The ordinance expands the scope for reduced fees based on financial hardship and humanitarian considerations. Eligible individuals include those with financial hardship equivalent to welfare recipients and those needing humanitarian consideration, such as foreign nationals raising Japanese nationals' biological children or special permanent foreign residents.

Implementation and Costs

The new fees will be effective from October. While the ordinance caps fees at ¥100,000 for temporary residency and ¥300,000 for permanent residency, specific fee levels are determined by the relevant ordinance.

Unanswered Questions

While the ordinance outlines the new fee structure, it remains unclear how these changes will impact the overall immigration process in Japan. Additionally, the criteria for determining financial hardship and humanitarian conditions need further clarification.

Next Steps for Affected Individuals

Foreign nationals in Japan should prepare for these changes by budgeting for the increased fees and exploring eligibility for reduced fees if applicable. It is advisable to consult with immigration experts or legal advisors to understand the implications of these changes fully. For more detailed information on preparing your documents, visit our document checklists feature.

In conclusion, the new ordinance marks a significant shift in Japan's immigration policy, with increased fees reflecting a broader revision of immigration laws. Affected individuals should stay informed and seek guidance to navigate these changes effectively.