Preedee TeoHeads up, travellers! Japan is taking steps to enhance its border control measures with the introduction of a new travel authorisation system, tentatively named the Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (JESTA).
This new system, modelled after the U.S. Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA), will impact travellers from 71 visa-exempt countries, including Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, the United States, and the United Kingdom. Here’s what you need to know about the upcoming changes.
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What is JESTA?
Image credit: thongzilla | Unsplash
The Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorisation, or JESTA, is a new online travel authorisation system that will require visitors to Japan to declare their personal information before entering the country. This is to streamline entry procedures and enhance security by pre-screening travellers before they arrive in Japan.
Similar to the U.S. ESTA, JESTA will require travellers from visa-exempt countries to fill out an online application with their personal details. This additional step aims to ensure that those entering Japan do so for legitimate reasons and comply with the country’s entry regulations.
Why is Japan implementing JESTA?
Reducing illegal immigration
One of the primary reasons for implementing JESTA is to reduce illegal immigration. A Japanese news article reports that the Japanese government is trying to curb tourists who stay in the country beyond their granted stay period. In Jan 2024, there were more than 79,000 illegal overstayers in Japan, with 62.9% overstaying their short-term stay status.
As such, Japan’s new initiative requires travellers to apply for travel authorisation before entering the country to identify and prevent people from overstaying their visas. Tourists who are flagged may not be allowed entry under the JESTA program and will need to apply for a regular visa.
Who will be affected?
Tourists from 71 countries, including Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, the United States, and the United Kingdom, can currently visit Japan without a visa. However, with the introduction of JESTA, they will need to apply for a new type of travel authorisation and declare their personal information for entry into Japan.
When will JESTA be implemented?
JESTA is currently in its planning phase, and the Japanese government has made plans to delegate research funds to develop the system in 2025. JESTA is expected to be fully working in 2030, but a trial system is slated to roll out in 2024.
Trial phase and future developments
During the trial phase, the airline will send passenger information to Japan’s immigration after they board the plane. The back-end government system will check this information against a list of people who are not allowed to enter Japan. If someone is on this list, the airline will not let them board the plane. This will help prevent people who would be deemed as problematic individuals from entering the country and contribute to better overall border security.
How does it affect travel to Japan now?
JESTA is designed to improve security and stop people from entering Japan illegally. The exact details of how to apply for JESTA, including how long it takes and the associated costs, i.e., application fee, are not known yet. As of now, passengers can still enjoy entry into Japan without applying for an authorisation visa.
However, travellers from the affected countries should stay updated on the latest developments concerning JESTA to help facilitate a smoother entry once JESTA is fully implemented.
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Japan’s introduction of the JESTA system reflects its commitment to maintaining stringent border controls while welcoming visitors. It is also a reminder to tourists to adhere to their approved period of stay in the country.
In the meantime, travellers planning to visit Japan in the coming years should stay informed about these new requirements and prepare accordingly to ensure a hassle-free travel experience.
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