TOKYO, July 1 (CNA) - The Japanese government today began implementing increased fees for exit tax and visa applications for non-visa-exempt foreign visitors. The fee for a single-entry visa has been raised from the original 3,000 yen (approximately NT$600) to 15,000 yen (approximately NT$3,000). According to the "Nikkei," Japan has been continuously expanding its visa-waiver program, currently offering visa-free short-term stays for citizens of 74 countries and regions under specific conditions. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs estimates that by 2025, approximately 80% of foreign visitors will enter Japan visa-free. Conversely, citizens from over 120 countries, including China, the Philippines, and Vietnam, are required to apply for a visa to enter Japan. In 2025, out of 7.86 million visa applications issued by Japan, 5.71 million were for Chinese citizens, accounting for about 73%. The number of visas issued by Japan last year was second only to the pre-COVID-19 pandemic level in 2019, primarily due to an increase in Chinese tourists. However, Japan's visa fees are significantly lower compared to those in Western countries. The fee for a short-term stay in the United States is $185 (approximately NT$5,900), the UK is £135 (approximately NT$5,800), Canada is C$100 (approximately NT$2,200), and Schengen Area countries in Europe uniformly charge 90 euros (approximately NT$3,300). Japan continues to promote its policy of attracting foreign visitors. Last year, an estimated 42.43 million people visited Japan, setting a new record, with a future target of 60 million visitors by 2030. The increase in visa fees involves raising the single-entry visa fee from the original 3,000 yen to 15,000 yen. The fee for multiple-entry visas within a specified period has been raised from 6,000 yen (approximately NT$1,200) to 30,000 yen (approximately NT$6,000). The visa fee hike aims to expand funding for services related to the increasing number of tourists visiting Japan. This measure