Japan Fast-Tracks New Entry System (JESTA) for 71 Visa-Free Countries

Japan has announced plans to introduce its Electronic Travel Authorisation System (ETA) — temporarily named JESTA — by fiscal year 2028, speeding up the timeline from the previously targeted 2030 launch. This system will apply to travellers from visa-exempt countries, enhancing border control while streamlining immigration processes.

The news was confirmed by Justice Minister Keisuke Suzuki on April 23 during a parliamentary session, marking a significant milestone in Japan’s plan to modernize its travel infrastructure.

“We aim to introduce a Japanese version of the U.S. ESTA by fiscal 2028,” Suzuki stated, underscoring the urgency of the rollout due to the growing influx of international tourists.

Why Is Japan Launching JESTA?

Japan has experienced a strong rebound in tourism following the pandemic, and the government is aiming to attract 60 million foreign visitors annually by 2030. The new ETA system is a key part of this strategy.

According to Justice Minister Suzuki, the goal is twofold:

• Enhance border security by pre-screening travellers before they arrive.
• Improve the visitor experience through smoother, faster airport procedures.

The ETA will be modelled after successful systems like the U.S. ESTA and the UK ETA, both of which require visa-exempt travellers to apply online before their trip.

What Is JESTA and How Will It Work?

JESTA — short for Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorisation — will require travellers from visa-free countries to complete an online application before boarding their flights to Japan.

Travellers will need to submit:

• Purpose of travel
• Duration of stay
• Accommodation details
• Personal identification data

Once approved, the digital authorisation will grant entry for short-term stays, typically up to 90 days. If the application is denied, the traveller will not be permitted to board their flight, adding an extra layer of pre-departure border control.

Also Read: Japan’s Growing Need for Foreign Workers: Key Trends and Visa Options

Who Will Need to Apply for JESTA?

JESTA will only apply to nationals of visa-exempt countries — travellers who currently do not need a visa for short-term visits to Japan.

Here’s the full list of the 71 countries and territories expected to require electronic travel authorisation by 2028:

1. Andorra
2. Argentina
3. Australia
4. Austria
5. Bahamas
6. Barbados
7. Belgium
8. Brazil
9. Brunei
10. Bulgaria
11. Canada
12. Chile
13. Costa Rica
14. Croatia
15. Cyprus
16. Czech Republic
17. Denmark
18. Dominican Republic
19. El Salvador
20. Estonia
21. Finland
22. France
23. Germany
24. Greece
25. Guatemala
26. Honduras
27. Hong Kong
28. Hungary
29. Iceland
30. Indonesia
31. Ireland
32. Israel
33. Italy
34. Latvia
35. Lesotho
36. Liechtenstein
37. Lithuania
38. Luxembourg
39. Macau
40. Malaysia
41. Malta
42. Mauritius
43. Mexico
44. Monaco
45. Netherlands
46. New Zealand
47. North Macedonia
48. Norway
49. Panama
50. Poland
51. Portugal
52. Qatar
53. Romania
54. San Marino
55. Serbia
56. Singapore
57. Slovakia
58. Slovenia
59. South Korea
60. Spain
61. Suriname
62. Sweden
63. Switzerland
64. Taiwan
65. Thailand
66. Tunisia
67. Turkey
68. United Arab Emirates
69. United Kingdom
70. United States
71. Uruguay

How JESTA Will Benefit Travellers

The implementation of JESTA aims to strike a balance between security and convenience. Key benefits include:

• Faster processing at immigration via automated systems
• Reduced airport congestion during peak travel periods
• Early risk assessment of visitors before arrival
• Improved data collection for tourism policy planning

These enhancements are particularly crucial as Japan gears up to become a global tourism hub in the years leading up to 2030.

Final Thoughts

Japan’s upcoming JESTA electronic travel authorisation system is a forward-looking move designed to support its tourism goals while enhancing safety and efficiency at the border. With a launch now expected by March 2028, travellers from visa-exempt countries should prepare for this new requirement and plan accordingly.

If you’re dreaming of cherry blossoms or sushi adventures, staying informed about these changes will ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey to the Land of the Rising Sun.