This decision marks the first revision of visa fees in 48 years, with a single-entry visa increasing from 3,000 yen to 15,000 yen and a multiple-entry visa from 6,000 yen to 30,000 yen. These new fees, effective for applications submitted on or after July 1, are intended to reflect rising prices. The government anticipates no immediate impact on inbound tourism.
International tourism to the United States has seen a significant decline of 5.5 percent in 2025, with a drop of 4 million visitors and over $8 billion in spending, marking the sharpest annual decrease in two decades outside of the pandemic. This downturn is attributed to President Trump’s rhetoric, hardline policies, and the political fallout from the Iran conflict, particularly impacting Canadian travelers who have experienced a substantial decrease in visits due to strained U.S.-Canada relations and trade tariffs. While global international travel increased, many travelers opted for destinations other than the United States, suggesting a shift in the country’s global perception and a potentially lasting negative impact on its tourism industry.
John Q. Hosedrinker