China will increase visa fees for Japanese nationals to roughly seven times the current level for applications submitted from September 14, the Chinese Embassy in Tokyo said according to Jiji Press.

The move follows Japan's decision in July to raise the cost of visas for foreign nationals, and comes as the two governments continue to manage a relationship marked by periodic friction over travel, trade and security, even as Beijing has eased entry rules for Japanese tourists.

The fee for a single-entry visa will rise from JPY2,250 ($14.65) to JPY16,750 ($110). A double-entry visa will cost JPY25,100 instead of JPY3,750.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning told a press briefing on September 11 that the adjustment had been made in line with the principle of reciprocity.

The higher charges apply to applications submitted on or after September 14.

The increase does not affect short-stay tourism for most Japanese travellers. In November 2024, the Chinese government reinstated short-term visa waivers for Japanese citizens, allowing stays of up to 30 days without a visa for tourism purposes. The waiver scheme had been suspended during the coronavirus pandemic.

Japanese nationals travelling to China for work, study, long-term residence or other purposes not covered by the waiver still require a visa and will face the new fee levels.