Visa-Free Entry
Japan has announced a significant change in its immigration policy to boost tourism and improve border security. In a major move, the country will grant visa-free entry to citizens of 71 countries and introduce a new electronic travel authorization system called JESTA, which will be mandatory for travelers from visa-exempt nations. The system is set to launch in 2028, two years ahead of its originally planned rollout in 2030.
The announcement was made on April 23 by Japan’s Minister of Justice, Keisuke Suzuki, during a parliamentary session. The goal is to replicate the success of the U.S. Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) program, which has streamlined travel and improved border management.
With the introduction of JESTA, Japan aims to better manage the increasing number of international visitors, while ensuring the safety and security of its borders.
What is JESTA?
JESTA stands for Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorization. It will be required for all travelers from countries that are currently allowed visa-free entry to Japan. To travel, visitors will need to apply online before departure, providing personal details, travel itineraries, and accommodation information.
Once the application is approved, travelers will receive a digital permit, which will be valid for short stays of up to 90 days. If the application is denied, travelers will not be allowed to board flights to Japan.
Why is JESTA being introduced?
The JESTA system is designed to enhance security and streamline the immigration process. Key reasons for its implementation include:
- Strengthening border security by pre-screening travelers before they arrive in Japan.
- Speeding up the immigration process, reducing waiting times for passengers at airports.
- Reducing congestion at airports by enabling automated and efficient passenger screening.
- Ensuring safety by monitoring and assessing travel data before travelers even board their flights.
List of countries granted visa-free entry
The 71 countries whose citizens will benefit from this policy include: Andorra, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Bahamas, Barbados, Belgium, Brazil, Brunei, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Guatemala, Honduras, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Latvia, Lesotho, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macau, Malaysia, Malta, Mauritius, Mexico, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Norway, Panama, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Romania, San Marino, Serbia, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, Suriname, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, Tunisia, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States, and Uruguay.
Benefits for Travelers
The introduction of JESTA will offer numerous advantages for international travelers. These include faster immigration processing, shorter waiting times at airports, more thorough security checks, and an overall smoother entry experience.
For Japan, the JESTA system aligns with its broader tourism goals, particularly its target of welcoming 60 million international visitors annually by 2030.
By introducing this system, Japan places itself on the forefront of modern, secure, and efficient border management, signaling a commitment to both improving the visitor experience and enhancing national security. JESTA is a strategic step that will help Japan manage growing tourism while ensuring a safe and orderly immigration process for travelers from around the world.
