Japan has revised residence procedure fees for Kenyans and other foreign nationals, with the new charges taking effect from October 1, 2026.
The changes cover applications to change residence status, extend the period of stay, and obtain permanent residence following amendments to Japan’s Immigration Control Act Enforcement Order.
According to Japan’s Immigration Services Agency (ISA), the new fees vary according to the type of application and, for extensions, the period of stay granted.
However, the Immigration Services Agency emphasized that applications received by September 30, 2026 will continue to attract the previous fees even where permission is granted on or after October 1.
“Please note that for applications received by September 30, 2026, even if the permission for such applications is granted on or after October 1, the fees before the revision will apply,” ISA noted.
Japan’s New Residence Fees
The fee for changing residence status has increased from approximately KSh 4,920 to KSh 8,200, according to Japan’s Immigration Services Agency.
For extensions of the period of stay, the new fees at immigration counters range from approximately KSh8,200 to KSh61,500, depending on the period granted.
A permitted stay of three months or less costs about KSh8,200, while a period of more than three months but not more than six months costs approximately KSh14,760.
The charge rises to about KSh20,500 for more than six months but less than one year, KSh27,060 for one year, KSh39,360 for more than one year but less than three years, KSh52,480 for three years or more but less than five years, and KSh61,500 for five years or more.
For online applications, the fee is about KSh8,200 for a stay of three months or less, KSh12,300 for more than three months but not more than six months, and KSh17,220 for more than six months but less than one year.
Further, foreign residents will be charged KSh22,140 for one year, KSh34,440 for more than one year but less than three years, KSh45,920 for three years or more but less than five years, and KSh53,300 for five years or more during online applications.
Additionally, the permanent residence fee has risen from approximately KSh 8,200 to approximately KSh 165,000.
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Requirements for Personal Online Applications
A foreign national applying in person needs Japan’s government-issued identification card used by residents to prove their identity and access online government services: the My Number Card.
Japan’s online application guidance also requires a computer that can read the My Number Card, along with an IC card reader/writer and the relevant Japanese public personal identification software.
Applicants must also prepare the documents required for their specific residence procedure, including the application form, passport, and Residence Card.
The application system requires information about the applicant, the desired residence status (where applicable), a photograph, and supporting documents related to the applicant’s activities.
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How to Apply Online
To apply, the applicant begins by registering on Japan’s Residence Application Online System.
Applicants must create a user account and complete identity verification using their My Number Card.
The system reads the card and requires the electronic certificate password. The applicant then enters the required information, agrees to the terms of use, and completes registration.
After registration, the system sends an approval email, after which the applicant sets a password and receives an authentication ID.
Log in to the online residence application system using the required authentication information and My Number Card, select the relevant residence procedure, and enter the application information.
The application is then submitted to the Immigration Services Agency, and an email containing the application receipt number is sent to the applicant.
After the Immigration Services Agency completes its examination, the applicant receives an email with instructions for paying the applicable fee.
Payment for online applications is made through convenience-store payment or bank payment.
Applicants cannot use credit cards or QR-code payments for residence fees.
Japan will no longer accept revenue stamps for online applications submitted on or after October 1.
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