Japan Raises Residency Fees 2,000 Percent Amid Public Anxiety Over Foreigners

Japan is set to increase the fee for permanent residency applications from 10,000 yen to 200,000 yen, a twentyfold rise. Fees for changing or renewing residence status will climb, reaching 75,000 yen for permits. Officials say the increases will help cover immigration-management costs and promote an orderly society. The changes come amid anxiety over the growing foreign population and tougher permanent-residency requirements. Applicants face stricter income, pension, language, and integration standards, prompting a rush to submit applications before the hike