Japan to Introduce Electronic Travel Authorisation for Visa-Free Visitors
The Japanese government has announced plans to implement an online system for travel authorization for visa-exempt travellers. This new system was adopted during a meeting of Cabinet ministers at the Prime Minister's Office.
Under the new system, foreign visitors who do not require short-stay visas will need to provide their information online, including the purpose of their stay, before entering Japan. This measure aims to prevent illegal stays.
The Immigration Services Agency will finalise the details of the system, drawing inspiration from the US Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA).
Although the authorities have not specified when the electronic travel authorization requirement will be introduced, it is expected to be implemented alongside other measures scheduled to take effect next year.
Japan currently permits visa-free entry to citizens of 71 countries and territories including the United Kingdom.
Passport holders of these countries and territories can travel to Japan without the need to apply for a visa beforehand.
However, as soon as electronic travel authorization is introduced, they will need to apply for the document online.
The Japanese government is actively addressing the issue of visa overstays. Business travellers will need to declare their business partners' names, while those seeking medical treatment must specify the hospital where they will receive care. This thorough approach aims to reduce overstays and boosts confidence in the new system's effectiveness.
EUROPEAN VISA-FREE COUNTRIES TO JAPAN | |||
Andorra | North Macedonia | Liechtenstein | Romania |
Austria | France | Lithuania | San Marino |
Belgium | Germany | Luxembourg | Serbia |
Bulgaria | Greece | Malta | Slovakia |
Croatia | Hungary | Monaco | Slovenia |
Cyprus | Iceland | Netherlands | Spain |
Czech Republic | Ireland | Norway | Sweden |
Denmark | Italy | Poland | Switzerland |
Estonia | Latvia | Portugal | United Kingdom |
Finland |
- To find the whole and updated list, check out the Japanese Official Website
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