Planning a trip to Japan? A new entry requirement is coming—but not for a while.
Japan’s government has approved what it says will be its own version of an electronic travel authorization for visitors. Called JESTA (Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorization), the new system will apply to travelers from 74 different visa-exempt countries, including the U.S.
Although an exact launch date hasn’t been announced, the system is currently scheduled to be introduced in fiscal year 2028.
Under JESTA, travelers who are currently allowed to visit Japan for short-term stays without a visa will be required to register online before traveling. If they haven’t completed the authorization, they won’t be allowed to board their flight to Japan.
Similar electronic travel authorization systems have already been introduced in many countries, including the United States (ESTA), Australia (ETA), the United Kingdom (ETA), and South Korea (K-ETA). JESTA was developed with reference to these overseas examples.
Why is Japan starting JESTA?
The Japanese government says it plans to introduce JESTA for two reasons:
Strengthening immigration control
Right now, short-term visitors from visa-exempt countries can enter Japan without undergoing visa screening. Under the current system, it’s harder to ensure that these tourists don’t overstay or otherwise violate immigration rules. After JESTA is introduced, the government expects to strengthen immigration control through an authorization review process.
Streamlining entry procedures
According to Ministry of Justice data, the number of newly arriving foreign nationals in 2025 reached 39.18 million – an all-time record. As a result, immigration screening wait times have become very long. The introduction of JESTA, along with increased automation such as automated gates, is expected to speed up entry procedures.
“This pre-screening system allows Japan to identify potential immigration issues before travelers reach the country, reducing problems at airports,” says the JESTA website.
What will JESTA be like?
Of course, not all of the details have been announced yet. But the program will likely resemble other ETA programs around the world, with travelers required to provide basic travel information such as:
- Passport information
- Purpose of the trip
- Accommodation details
- Departure dates
Although not mentioned, a fee will undoubtedly be required (it always is, LOL).
Once approved, travelers will be cleared to visit Japan—but airline staff will still verify that authorization before boarding.
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4 comments
These are visas with misleading names and a simpler application process. Call it what you will, but it’s a visa. Lots of countries doing this now.
Does it really matter of it’s a visa vs a visa waiver, though?
“Although not mentioned, a fee will undoubtedly be required (it always is, LOL).”
Thailand does the same, but doesn’t charge a fee.
Recently returned from a trip to Japan. No JESTA yet but there is an entry approval form that has to be completed (and a KR code made available) before entry. If you don’t do it you can fill out paperwork when you arrive. Message is Japan already has a similar such program (just like Singapore). No cost but has to be done. This will likely replace that. Personally I have no problem with these “visa light” requirements. Takes a few minutes and costs usually $20-$30 then good for a number of years.