Planning a Japan Trip in 2028? New JESTA Rule Requires Online Approval for Visa-Free Travellers

Planning a Japan Trip in 2028? New JESTA Rule Requires Online Approval for Visa-Free Travellers (Image: Canva)

In a decisive step towards enhancing its border security and easing entry procedures, Japan has unveiled plans to launch the Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (JESTA), a digital pre-screening requirement for travellers from 71 visa-exempt nations. Slated to go live by the end of fiscal 2028, JESTA will bring Japan in line with a growing number of nations adopting electronic travel authorisation systems, aiming to strike a balance between national security and a seamless tourist experience.

Announced by Justice Minister Keisuke Suzuki on May 23, 2025, the initiative reflects Japan’s response to the dramatic rise in global tourism post-pandemic. With 36.9 million international visitors recorded in 2024 alone—a historic high—the country is embracing digital infrastructure to manage the surge more efficiently.

What Is JESTA and Why It Matters

JESTA is modelled after similar systems such as the U.S. ESTA, requiring travellers to apply online for permission to enter Japan prior to departure. The system will apply to nationals from visa-exempt countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, France, Germany, Singapore, Australia, Canada, and others.

Applicants will need to provide personal and travel details, including passport information and dates of intended travel. A nominal processing fee is expected. Once approved, the authorisation will be valid for multiple short-term visits, simplifying repeat travel for frequent flyers.

One of JESTA’s most notable features will be the integration of biometric data, including facial recognition and fingerprinting, during the application process. These details will help fast-track passenger verification at immigration checkpoints, reducing wait times and congestion at Japan’s major airports.

Countries Affected by the New Travel Requirement

JESTA will cover travellers from 71 countries currently permitted visa-free entry into Japan. These include:

• Europe: United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Switzerland, among others
• Asia: Singapore, Malaysia, South Korea, Taiwan, the United Arab Emirates
• Americas: United States, Canada, Mexico, Brazil
• Oceania: Australia, New Zealand
• Africa: Mauritius, Lesotho

How JESTA Will Work

Travellers will be required to complete a digital application before boarding their flights to Japan. The process will involve submitting passport information, itinerary details, and possibly answering security-related questions. Once granted, the authorisation will permit multiple entries over a specified period—likely aligning with typical tourist travel durations.

Importantly, biometric information collected during the process will be securely stored and utilised to speed up identity verification upon arrival. This will help immigration officials pre-screen travellers and streamline entry at increasingly crowded border checkpoints.

A Step Toward Smarter, Safer Travel

The introduction of JESTA is not merely administrative. It represents a broader policy pivot—one that uses pre-emptive data collection to bolster national security while maintaining Japan’s reputation as a welcoming destination.

By obtaining traveller data in advance, authorities can identify potential risks before individuals even set foot on Japanese soil. This early screening mechanism will help minimise delays and focus resources on high-risk cases, allowing smoother processing for the vast majority of tourists.

The Global Shift Toward Digital Border Controls

Japan’s move follows in the footsteps of countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and members of the European Union, which have implemented similar pre-travel screening systems in recent years. These systems are increasingly seen as essential tools in managing today’s complex travel environment—where cross-border movement is surging, yet security concerns remain paramount.

As digital authorisations become the norm worldwide, JESTA signals Japan’s intent to modernise its borders without sacrificing hospitality.

Revised Timeline and Public Awareness

Originally anticipated to roll out by 2030, the launch of JESTA has been brought forward to 2028 in response to the rapid revival of tourism. Over the next three years, Japan’s immigration authorities will coordinate with airlines, travel agencies, and foreign governments to educate travellers about the new requirements and ensure a smooth transition.

In the lead-up to implementation, updates and instructions will be issued via official government portals, and airlines will be tasked with verifying that travellers have obtained JESTA approval before boarding flights bound for Japan.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who needs to apply for JESTA before travelling to Japan?
Travellers from 71 visa-exempt countries—including the U.S., U.K., Canada, Australia, Singapore, and most EU nations—will need to complete a JESTA application prior to departure.

2. When will JESTA officially launch?
JESTA is scheduled to go live by the end of Japan’s fiscal year 2028. Travellers should monitor updates from official Japanese government channels for the exact launch date.

3. Will there be a fee to apply for JESTA?
Yes, a nominal processing fee will likely be charged, though the exact amount has not yet been officially confirmed by Japanese authorities.

4. How long will JESTA approval remain valid?
Once granted, JESTA authorisation is expected to be valid for multiple short-term visits over a designated period, similar to systems like the U.S. ESTA or EU’s ETIAS.

5. What happens if a traveller forgets to apply for JESTA?
Airlines will be required to verify JESTA approval before allowing passengers to board flights to Japan. Travellers without prior authorisation may be denied boarding or entry.

Looking Ahead: A New Era in Japanese Tourism

JESTA marks a pivotal moment in Japan’s efforts to modernise its immigration procedures and accommodate the demands of 21st-century travel. By leveraging technology, the system promises to deliver a faster, more efficient entry process for millions of global visitors each year—while strengthening national security protocols.

For travellers planning future trips to Japan, JESTA will become a routine part of travel preparations—another step in ensuring a smooth and well-organised experience in one of the world’s most technologically advanced and culturally rich nations.

As Japan continues to position itself as a top-tier travel destination, initiatives like JESTA underscore its commitment to both hospitality and high security standards—ensuring the country remains open, safe, and ready for the world.