Japan to Implement Higher Visa Fees and Departure Tax in 2026 Amid Tourism Surge

As Japan continues to experience a record-breaking influx of international visitors—surpassing 31.6 million from January to September 2025—the government has announced plans to raise several fees associated with travel to the country. These changes, aimed at funding infrastructure improvements, enhanced security, and domestic programs like free high school tuition, will primarily affect foreign tourists but also include measures to balance costs for Japanese citizens.

Key Changes to Visa Fees

Japan’s visa fees, which have remained unchanged since 1978, are set for their first increase in over four decades. The adjustments are intended to bring Japan’s rates in line with those of other G7 and OECD nations, where fees are significantly higher.

– Current Fees: A single-entry visa costs ¥3,000 (approximately €19 or US$20), while a multiple-entry visa is ¥6,000 (about €38).
– Proposed Increases: Exact new amounts have not been finalized, but they are expected to rise substantially. For comparison, similar visas in the United States cost around US$185 (¥28,000), in the United Kingdom £127 (≈ ¥27,000), and in Schengen countries like France or Germany €90 (≈ ¥15,000).
– Timeline: The hikes will take effect in 2026.

These updates reflect Japan’s response to inflation and a reluctance to impose higher taxes on residents, shifting some financial burden to inbound travelers.

Departure Tax Hike

The international departure tax, introduced in 2019 and currently set at a flat rate of ¥1,000 (about €5.50 or US$7) per person, will also see an increase. This fee is typically included in airline tickets and applies to all individuals leaving Japan, including citizens and tourists.

– Proposed Increase: The new rate has not been officially confirmed but is anticipated to align with international benchmarks, potentially rising to around ¥3,000 (similar to the U.S. equivalent of ¥3,300) or doubling to ¥2,000.
– Timeline: Implementation is planned for 2026.
– Offset for Locals: To mitigate the impact on Japanese nationals, the government is considering reductions in passport application and renewal fees.

The additional revenue from this tax—estimated at up to ¥300 billion annually when combined with other fee adjustments—will support airport upgrades, tourism infrastructure, and efforts to alleviate overtourism in popular destinations.

Upcoming JESTA Pre-Screening System

Looking further ahead, Japan will introduce the Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorization (JESTA) in 2028. Modeled after systems like the U.S. ESTA and Europe’s ETIAS, this online registration will be required for travelers from visa-exempt countries (such as the U.S., U.K., Australia, and EU nations) before entering Japan.

– Details: Applicants will need to submit passport and trip information for pre-screening.
– Proposed Fee: Approximately ¥6,000 (around €36 or US$40).
– Purpose: To enhance border security and better manage visitor flows amid the ongoing tourism boom.

Impact on Travelers

These changes come as Japan grapples with overtourism, particularly in hotspots like Kyoto and Osaka, where local governments are also exploring additional accommodation taxes. For U.S. and Chinese travelers—who represent significant portions of inbound tourism—the increases could add notable costs to trips, especially for families or frequent visitors.

Travelers planning visits to Japan in 2026 or later should budget accordingly and monitor official announcements from the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs or their local embassies for finalized details. While these fees may make trips slightly more expensive, they underscore Japan’s commitment to sustainable tourism and improved visitor experiences.