TOKYO, Apr 24 (News On Japan) –
Japan has enacted a revised Passport Act that can sharply cut back passport software charges from July 1, as the federal government seeks to encourage extra residents to acquire passports.
The invoice was accredited unanimously at a plenary session of the House of Councillors on Friday, finishing its passage by way of the Diet.
Under the brand new system, an grownup making use of on-line for a 10-year passport can pay 8,900 yen, down from the present 15,900 yen.
The Foreign Ministry stated Japan’s passport possession price stood at round 19% final yr, considerably decrease than in international locations such because the United States and South Korea.
The authorities hopes decrease charges will take away one barrier to abroad journey and increase passport possession amongst Japanese residents.
The transfer additionally comes as Japan is anticipated to boost its so-called departure tax from July for vacationers leaving the nation. By chopping passport charges on the similar time, officers goal to keep away from discouraging journey demand.
To deal with inquiries associated to the adjustments, the Foreign Ministry will open a phone session desk inside the ministry on June 1, staffed by 5 operators.
Source: TBS