The Japanese government recently tripled its departure tax, raising it to approximately 18 euros per person. The revenue generated is intended to mitigate the consequences of recent mass tourism influx.
Furthermore, fees for entry visas have seen significant increases. A single-entry visa will now cost 15,000 yen (approximately 81 euros), while a multiple-entry visa is set at 30,000 yen. These new rates are five times the previous fee structure. To help offset the increased burden caused by the higher departure tax, Tokyo has simultaneously reduced passport fees for Japanese citizens.
The departure tax is levied when purchasing travel tickets and applies regardless of the passenger’s nationality. The funds collected are primarily earmarked to finance measures aimed at easing congestion in crowded areas, such as establishing designated zones at popular photo spots. Additionally, the revenue will support regional tourism initiatives designed to draw visitors away from heavily trafficked regions.
Specific exemptions apply: passengers passing through Japan within 24 hours and children under two years old are exempt from the tax. Passengers who purchased tickets before the deadline will still pay the original departure tax of 1,000 yen.
Separately, the rise in visa fees is the first increase since 1978. Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi stated that the fee hikes reflect current inflation and the depreciation of the yen.
For the majority of German tourists, these higher visa fees do not currently change their travel plans, as German citizens can enter Japan visa-free for short stays of up to 90 days.
