Japan to Introduce JESTA: Key Points for Visitors, Foreign Residents, and Employers
apan is moving toward JESTA, a new electronic travel authorization system for certain visa-exempt short-term visitors. The bill also includes a review of statutory upper limits for immigration-related fees, including change of status, extension of period of stay, and permanent residence. This article explains the practical points visitors, residents, and employers should know.
Is the Cost of Getting a Japanese Visa High? A Comparison from a Foreign National’s Perspective
Japan’s official visa and residence fees are relatively low compared with many major countries. However, the real cost for foreign nationals includes translations, certificates, professional fees, renewal frequency, and the risk of refusal or reapplication.
Immigration Fee Reform Bill and JESTA in Japan: Key Points for Foreign Residents and Employers
On March 10, 2026, the Japanese government approved a bill to create JESTA, a new electronic travel authorization system, and to raise the statutory ceiling for certain immigration-related fees, including change of status, extension of period of stay, and permanent residence. The key point is that this does not mean all fees have immediately increased to those maximum amounts. This article explains what foreign residents and employers should know.
Japan’s Immigration Fee Increase: What Foreign Residents and Employers Should Know
Japan is moving toward a major increase in immigration procedure fees, including status change, extension, and permanent residence applications. This article explains the current stage of the bill, expected fee levels, and practical points for foreign residents and employers.