Japan Tightens Entry for Visa-Free Travellers

Charlie Japan 8 June 2025 | | 0

In a move to enhance border security and streamline travel procedures, Japan is fast-tracking the launch of its Electronic Travel Authorisation system—temporarily dubbed JESTA—from 2030 to fiscal year 2028. The system will apply to short-term visitors from visa-exempt countries, introducing a digital pre-arrival screening process similar to the US ESTA and Canada’s eTA programs.

Japan is experiencing an unprecedented tourism boom. In 2024 alone, the country welcomed a record-breaking 36.87 million international visitors, a 47.1% increase from 2023. This surge has made tourism one of Japan’s central economic pillars, with the government targeting 60 million annual visitors by 2030.

To manage this growing influx while maintaining security and efficiency, the Ministry of Justice plans to implement JESTA to screen travelers before they even board their flights. The new system will require travelers to submit personal and travel information, such as name, travel purpose, and destination, a few days ahead of arrival.

The Immigration Services Agency of Japan will use this data to identify individuals with previous immigration violations or criminal records. Those flagged could be denied boarding, helping Japan proactively manage its borders.

Who Will Be Affected?

Currently, citizens of 71 countries and regions, including the United States, Canada, South Korea, and much of Europe, can enter Japan without a visa for short-term stays.

Once JESTA is in place, even these visa-free travelers will need to complete the online authorisation before their trip.

The move toward digital border controls is seen as a way to reduce airport congestion, cut processing times, and enhance security through early data collection.

Japan’s Tourism by the Numbers

Tourism contributed approximately ¥5.5 trillion ($35 billion USD) to Japan’s economy in 2023. In 2024, the top sources of inbound tourists were South Korea, Taiwan, China, and the United States.

According to the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), the country is on track to fully recover and surpass pre-pandemic tourism levels by 2025.

As Japan continues to attract travellers with its unique blend of tradition, technology, and natural beauty, initiatives like JESTA signal a future where travel is not just seamless but also smart and secure.

Does requiring pre-screening make you think twice about visiting Japan? Talk to us in the comment section below. Or if you need more advice on the above, contact us for further travel & immigration advice.

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About
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Charlie

Travel and Immigration Writer and Client Relationship Manager at IaM (Immigration and Migration)

Charlie is IaM’s resident Travel & Immigration Writer and Client Relationship Manager. They craft clear, engaging guides that demystify complex visa and migration rules - and then personally supports each client through every step of their journey.

Over the past 6+ years, with IaM, and working in the travel and immigration sector, Charlie has authored 200+ in-depth guides on Schengen, UK visas & other destinations they have relocated 1,000+ families safely through the system. A Clockwork Practitioner, Charlie also works hard to streamline operations and adheres to the mantra "Task Clients Well".

When they’re not translating policy into plain English, you’ll find them scouting new destinations, collecting local stories, and mastering a new language to better serve our global community.