Japan to raise immigration fees from October

Bangladeshi citizens living in Japan, should be aware of major changes to immigration fees that will take effect from October 1, 2026.

From that time, fees for applications to change status of residence, extend the period of stay and obtain permanent residence will increase significantly. Applicants should therefore, prepare for higher costs.

At present, applications to change status of residence or extend the period of stay cost 6,000 yen (around Tk4,710) when submitted directly at an immigration office and 5,500 yen (around Tk4,320) when submitted online. Under the new system, these fixed fees will no longer apply. Instead, the fee will depend on the length of the period of stay granted.
For a stay of more than three months but no more than six months, the fee will be 18,000 yen (around Tk14,130) for applications submitted directly at an office and 15,000 yen (around Tk11,775) for online applications.

For a period, more than six months but less than one year, the fees will be 25,000 yen (around Tk19,625) and 21,000 yen (around Tk16,485), respectively.

For a one-year period of stay, applicants will have to pay 33,000 yen (around Tk25,905) for direct applications and 27,000 yen (around Tk21,195) for online applications.

For periods of more than one year but less than three years, the fees will be 48,000 yen (around Tk37,680) for direct applications and 42,000 yen (around Tk32,970) for online applications.

For periods of three years or more but less than five years, the fees will be 64,000 yen (around Tk50,240) for direct applications and 56,000 yen (around Tk43,960) for online applications.

The highest fee will apply to permits valid for five years or more. In such cases, applicants will have to pay 75,000 yen (around Tk58,875) for direct applications and 65,000 yen (around Tk51,025) for online applications.

In other words, an application that currently costs 6,000 yen, or around Tk4,710, could cost as much as 75,000 yen, or around Tk58,875, under the new system in certain cases.

Changes in permanent residence fee

The biggest increase will affect applicants seeking permanent residence in Japan. The current application fee is 10,000 yen, or around Tk7,850. From October 1, however, it will rise to 200,000 yen, or around Tk157,000.

Payment method for online applications

The payment procedure will also change for online applicants. Once the application review process is completed, instructions for making the payment will be sent to the applicant’s registered email address. The required amount must be paid by following those instructions.

What Bangladeshis need to know

The new rules are particularly important for Bangladeshis working or studying in Japan. Those whose period of stay is nearing expiry should pay attention to the date on which the new fees take effect before submitting their applications.