China Adjusts Visa Fees for Japanese Citizens Based on Reciprocity

Starting September 14, 2026, China will implement increased visa fees for Japanese citizens. This change is a direct response to Japan’s own recent adjustments to its visa charges. The decision, announced by Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning, is rooted in the principle of reciprocity, meaning each country is adjusting its fees in kind to the other. This move affects Japanese applicants specifically, with no changes for citizens of other countries.

Reciprocal Fee Increases Take Effect

China’s decision to raise visa fees for Japanese citizens follows a similar action taken by Japan earlier in the year. On July 1, 2026, Japan’s new visa fees went into effect after a cabinet decision on June 19, 2026. The single-entry visa fee in Japan rose from 3,000 yen to 15,000 yen, and the multiple-entry fee increased from 6,000 yen to 30,000 yen. In response, China’s embassy in Japan issued a notice on September 11, 2026, detailing the new fee structure for Japanese applicants.

Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning stated that the adjustment was made in accordance with the principle of reciprocity. This means that China is mirroring Japan’s fee increases to maintain a balanced approach in visa processing costs between the two nations. The notice from the Chinese embassy clearly outlines the new schedule, which applies to applications received on or after September 14, 2026.

New Fee Structure for Japanese Applicants

The updated Chinese visa fees apply to four main categories: single-entry, double-entry, six-month multiple-entry, and one-year multiple-entry visas. The structure of the fees follows a clear progression, with shorter-term visas costing less and longer-term, multiple-entry visas incurring higher charges. This tiered system ensures that the cost aligns with the duration and frequency of intended stays.

The new fee schedule for Japanese citizens applying for Chinese visas is as follows:

Visa Type	New Fee (in Yen)
Single-entry visa	16,750
Double-entry visa	25,100
Six-month multiple-entry visa	33,500
One-year multiple-entry visa	50,250

It is important for Japanese citizens planning to travel to China to be aware of these new rates. Applications submitted before the September 14, 2026 deadline will still be processed under the previous, lower fee structure. This cutoff date provides a clear distinction for applicants to manage their visa submissions accordingly.

Exemptions and Scope of the Fee Adjustment

The recent increase in China’s visa fees specifically targets Japanese citizens. Nationals from other countries are not affected by this particular adjustment and will continue to pay the existing visa fees. This targeted approach underscores the reciprocal nature of the policy, directly addressing the changes made by Japan.

Furthermore, China had previously reinstated short-term visa exemptions for Japanese passport holders in November 2024. These exemptions allow for stays of up to 30 days for purposes such as tourism and other short-term visits, and they remain in effect. The current fee adjustment primarily impacts longer-term visa categories, including those for study, work, and other extended stays, rather than short tourist trips. This distinction ensures that the fee changes do not hinder casual travel for shorter durations.

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