The Japan eVisa costs approximately $50 USD (7,500 JPY) for a single-entry tourist or business visa as of April 2026 – a significant increase from the previous 3,000 JPY fee that had been in place since 1978. This guide covers all visa fees, payment methods, fee exemptions, and cost-saving tips for your Japan trip.
Japan eVisa Fee Structure (Updated April 2026)
Japan quintupled its visa fees on April 1, 2026 – the first increase in 48 years. The new fees align Japan with international standards and fund improvements to the eVisa system.
| Visa Type | New Fee (JPY) | Approximate USD | Previous Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single-entry (tourist, business, visiting relatives) | 7,500 JPY | $50 | 3,000 JPY |
| Multiple-entry visa | 15,000 JPY | $100 | 6,000 JPY |
| Transit visa | 3,750 JPY | $25 | 700 JPY |
| Airport transit visa | 3,750 JPY | $25 | 700 JPY |
The eVisa fee is paid online via credit or debit card at the time of application submission. Cash payments are not accepted for the eVisa system. The fee is charged in Japanese yen, and your card issuer may apply a foreign currency conversion fee.
Who Is Exempt from Japan Visa Fees?
Several categories of travelers may be exempt from paying the visa fee based on bilateral agreements between Japan and their home country:
- Diplomatic and official passport holders from many countries are exempt from visa fees
- Nationals of certain countries with reciprocal fee-waiver agreements with Japan
- Transit passengers who remain in the international zone of the airport (no visa needed)
- Japanese descendants (Nikkeijin) applying for specific long-term visas may qualify for fee reductions
Check with the Japanese embassy or consulate in your country to confirm if you qualify for a fee exemption.
Additional Costs Beyond the Visa Fee
The visa fee is just one part of the total cost. Budget for these additional expenses:
Document Preparation Costs
| Item | Estimated Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Passport photos (digital) | $10-15 | Professional photo service |
| Passport renewal (if needed) | $130-200 | Varies by country |
| Document translation | $20-50 per page | If required by consulate |
| Bank statement certification | $5-15 | Some banks charge for official copies |
| Travel insurance | $30-100 | Recommended, not required for eVisa |
Travel Costs to Budget
Beyond the eVisa fee, factor in these Japan travel expenses:
- Round-trip flights – $500-1,500 USD depending on origin and season
- Accommodation – $50-200 per night (hostels to mid-range hotels)
- Japan Rail Pass – $200-400 for 7-14 days of unlimited train travel
- Daily expenses – $50-100 per day for food, transport, and activities
- Travel insurance – $30-100 for the duration of your trip
Payment Methods for the Japan eVisa
The eVisa portal accepts the following payment methods:
- Credit cards: Visa, Mastercard, American Express, JCB
- Debit cards: Visa Debit, Mastercard Debit (with online payment capability)
- Prepaid cards: Accepted if they have online payment enabled
Payment is processed in Japanese Yen (JPY). Your card issuer determines the exchange rate and may charge a foreign transaction fee (typically 1-3%). To minimize costs, use a card with no foreign transaction fees.
Important: The visa fee is non-refundable. If your application is denied, you will not receive a refund. This is standard practice for visa fees worldwide.
How Japan Visa Fees Compare Internationally
Japan’s new visa fees are in line with other developed nations:
| Country | Single-Entry Tourist Visa | Currency |
|---|---|---|
| Japan | 7,500 JPY | ~$50 USD |
| United States | $185 | USD |
| United Kingdom | GBP 100 | ~$127 USD |
| Australia | AUD 190 | ~$125 USD |
| Schengen (EU) | EUR 80 | ~$87 USD |
| South Korea | KRW 40,000 | ~$29 USD |
| Canada | CAD 100 | ~$73 USD |
At approximately $50 USD, Japan’s eVisa fee is lower than most comparable destinations. The previous fee of 3,000 JPY ($20 USD) was among the lowest in the world.
Cost-Saving Tips for Your Japan Trip
While the visa fee is fixed, you can reduce overall travel costs:
- Apply for the eVisa yourself – Third-party visa agencies charge $50-150 extra in service fees for what you can do in 30 minutes on the official portal.
- Use a no-foreign-fee credit card – Saves 1-3% on the visa fee and all purchases in Japan.
- Travel in off-peak season – January-February and June are cheaper for flights and accommodation (avoid cherry blossom season and Golden Week).
- Get a Japan Rail Pass – Unlimited train travel for 7-14 days saves hundreds compared to buying individual tickets.
- Stay in hostels or capsule hotels – $20-40 per night instead of $100+ at standard hotels.
- Eat at convenience stores and ramen shops – Excellent meals for $5-10 in Japan.
Fee Refund Policy
The Japan eVisa fee is strictly non-refundable under all circumstances:
- Application denied – No refund
- Application withdrawn – No refund
- Duplicate payment – Refund may be processed (contact support)
- Technical error during payment – Contact your card issuer
To avoid wasting the fee, ensure your application is complete and accurate before submitting. Double-check all documents and information to minimize the risk of denial.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the Japan eVisa cost?
A single-entry Japan eVisa costs 7,500 JPY (approximately $50 USD) as of April 2026. Multiple-entry visas cost 15,000 JPY ($100 USD). The fee is paid online by credit or debit card.
Why did Japan increase its visa fees?
Japan increased visa fees in April 2026 for the first time since 1978. The new fees fund improvements to the eVisa system, enhance border security, and align Japan’s fees with international standards.
Can I get a refund if my Japan eVisa is denied?
No. The visa fee is non-refundable regardless of the application outcome. Ensure your application is complete and accurate before submitting to avoid wasting the fee.
Do children need to pay the Japan eVisa fee?
Yes. Each eVisa applicant, including children and infants, must pay the full visa fee. There is no reduced rate for minors.
Is the Japan eVisa fee different for different nationalities?
No. The fee is the same for all nationalities (7,500 JPY for single-entry). However, some nationalities may be exempt from fees based on bilateral agreements between their country and Japan.
Can I pay the Japan eVisa fee in my local currency?
The fee is charged in Japanese Yen (JPY). Your card issuer will convert it to your local currency at their exchange rate. A foreign transaction fee of 1-3% may apply depending on your card.
Are there any hidden costs with the Japan eVisa?
No hidden costs on the official portal. The only fee is the 7,500 JPY visa charge. Beware of unofficial third-party websites that charge $50-150 extra in “service fees” – always use the official portal at evisa.mofa.go.jp.
Last updated: June 2026. Fees verified against official JAPAN eVISA portal and Ministry of Foreign Affairs announcements. Always check current fees at evisa.mofa.go.jp.
