Islamabad, Apr 27, 2025: Japan has unveiled plans to introduce its new Electronic Travel Authorization System (ETA), temporarily named JESTA, by fiscal year 2028—two years ahead of its initial 2030 schedule.
This platform will target travelers from visa-exempt nations, aiming to tighten border protection while streamlining immigration procedures.
On April 23, Justice Minister Keisuke Suzuki confirmed this update during a legislative meeting, calling it a vital move toward modernizing Japan’s travel and immigration infrastructure.
“Our objective is to implement a Japanese alternative to the U.S. ESTA by 2028,” Suzuki declared, noting the growing urgency due to the sharp rise in foreign tourist arrivals.
Why Japan Is Rolling Out JESTA
After a significant revival in the tourism sector post-pandemic, Japan now seeks to attract 60 million international visitors per year by 2030. Launching JESTA is seen as crucial to meeting this ambitious target.
Minister Suzuki outlined two primary goals behind the initiative:
- Strengthening border security through advance traveler vetting.
- Creating a quicker, smoother entry process at major airports.
JESTA will mirror systems like the U.S. ESTA and the U.K. ETA, requiring travelers from visa-exempt countries to apply online ahead of departure.
Read More: Japan Unveils World’s First Curved Solar Panel in Breakthrough Innovation
Details About the JESTA Program
The Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorization (JESTA) will mandate that visitors from visa-free countries submit an online form before traveling.
Applicants must provide:
- The reason for their visit
- Expected duration of stay
- Lodging information
- Personal identification details
Once approved, travelers will receive a digital permit for short-term visits, generally up to 90 days. Individuals who are denied authorization will be prohibited from boarding flights to Japan, strengthening security before arrival.
Who Will Need to Apply for JESTA
By 2028, citizens from 71 nations and regions — such as Australia, Canada, Germany, Singapore, the United Kingdom, and the United States — must secure JESTA approval prior to entering Japan.
Benefits of JESTA for Travelers
JESTA is expected to enhance both security and visitor convenience by:
- Speeding up immigration clearance through automated kiosks
- Reducing airport congestion during peak seasons
- Enhancing pre-arrival risk assessments
- Gathering better data to refine tourism policies
These advancements are especially important as Japan positions itself as a global tourism hub leading into 2030.
