Japan to Launch JESTA: New Entry System for Visa-Free Travellers by 2028
Japan is gearing up to introduce a major update to its immigration process with the Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (JESTA) — a new pre-entry requirement for travellers from visa-exempt countries. The system, now scheduled for implementation by fiscal year 2028, aims to modernize border procedures and enhance security, bringing Japan in line with systems used by the U.S. and U.K.
Why JESTA Is Being Introduced
Announced by Justice Minister Keisuke Suzuki on April 23, 2025, JESTA is being fast-tracked to respond to Japan’s tourism boom. Originally planned for 2030, the system will now launch two years earlier to support the government’s goal of welcoming 60 million international visitors annually by 2030.
The system is designed to:
- Strengthen border security through pre-arrival screening
- Simplify and speed up airport procedures for travellers
“We aim to introduce a Japanese version of the U.S. ESTA by fiscal 2028,” Suzuki said, highlighting the urgency of improved infrastructure as tourism rebounds post-pandemic.
What Is JESTA and How Will It Work?
JESTA (Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorisation) will be a mandatory online application process for nationals from visa-exempt countries visiting Japan for short stays (up to 90 days).
What Travellers Need to Submit:
- Purpose of visit
- Duration of stay
- Accommodation details
- Personal identification (e.g., passport info)
Once approved, the digital authorisation will allow travellers to board flights to Japan and enter the country without additional paperwork. If denied, boarding will not be permitted — adding a layer of pre-departure security control.
Who Will Need to Apply for JESTA?
JESTA will apply exclusively to travellers from 71 countries and territories that currently enjoy visa-free access to Japan. Here’s the full list:
List of Visa-Free Countries (JESTA Eligible):
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, Uruguay.
Benefits of JESTA for Travellers and Japan
JESTA will not only streamline immigration processes but also provide critical benefits for both travellers and authorities:
For Travellers:
- Faster clearance at immigration
- Reduced wait times during peak travel
- Smoother overall airport experience
For Japan:
- Improved risk assessment before travellers arrive
- Enhanced border control
- Better tourism data to inform policy and planning
With Japan poised to become a global tourism hotspot, these updates are timely and strategic.
Final Thoughts: Get Ready for JESTA
As Japan prepares to implement JESTA by March 2028, travellers from visa-exempt countries should start familiarizing themselves with the process. Much like the U.S. ESTA or UK ETA systems, early preparation will ensure a hassle-free trip.
Whether you’re planning a cultural escape, a culinary tour, or a cherry blossom adventure, being ready for JESTA will help make your journey to Japan smooth and stress-free.
For more details, please contact my team.
Phone number
+ 91 6301550340
+ 91 6380692148
Thank you.
