Japan is strengthening its border control measures for travelers from countries that currently enjoy visa-free entry, including Indonesia, Singapore, the United States, the United Kingdom, New Zealand, and Australia. The move aims to enhance national security and curb illegal overstays.
Starting in 2030, visitors from these countries will be required to submit their personal information and travel details through a new system called Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorization (JESTA). Inspired by the US’s Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), JESTA will require travelers from 71 countries and regions to declare their travel plans and purpose of visit before arriving in Japan.
The Japanese government believes that JESTA will significantly reduce the number of visitors overstaying their permitted period, which typically ranges from 14 to 90 days. If an application raises security concerns, travel authorization will be denied, prompting the individual to apply for a traditional visa at their local Japanese embassy.
In addition to JESTA, Japan is piloting another system this year where passenger details are shared with the Immigration Services Agency after they complete boarding procedures. This information will be cross-referenced against a list of flagged individuals, including those with criminal backgrounds or other security concerns. Airlines will receive alerts to prevent flagged individuals from boarding flights.
These measures come as Japan experiences a surge in tourism, exceeding pre-pandemic levels. The Japan National Tourism Organization reported that 17.7 million tourists visited Japan in the first half of 2024, surpassing the 2019 peak of 16.63 million. As tourism continues to rebound, the Japanese government is actively working to balance welcoming visitors with ensuring national security and maintaining a safe and orderly travel environment.
