Japan’s New Entry Law (JESTA) For 71 Visa-Exempt Nations

Be prepared; Japan is set to introduce JESTA, a new electronic travel approval system. This critical update affects visa-exempt travelers visiting the famous destination. Discover what JESTA means for your next Japanese experience.

Meaning Of JESTA

Japan has formally named its upcoming pre-screening access system JESTA, an acronym for Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorization. The program aligns with the United States’ ESTA and is expected to be operational by the end of fiscal year 2028.

Declared on May 23, 2025, by Justice Minister Keisuke Suzuki, JESTA will be used for nationals from 71 visa-excluded nations and territories. Travelers will be required to obtain digital authorization before boarding their flights to Japan.

Reasons Japan Is Introducing JESTA

Japan welcomed a record 36.9 million international visitors in 2024 despite the vulnerable yen and heightened health travel restrictions. The increase has placed pressure on border regulation systems.

With growing concerns about unlawful overstays and immigration supervision, the authority views JESTA as a proactive tool to enhance security and streamline access processes.

How JESTA Will Operate

Once introduced, JESTA will require travelers from visa-free nations to apply online for approval before entering Japan. This system will:

• Implement a digital filter to screen travelers before they land.
• Assist Japanese immigration authorities in identifying increased threats from persons.
• Decreasing pressure at border checkpoints by pre-clearing reduced threats to tourists.

It is anticipated to be compulsory, similar to the way travelers are required to complete an ESTA before traveling to the United States.

Nations That Are Required To Use JESTA

JESTA will be applied to travelers from 71 nations and territories that presently enjoy visa exclusions. If your country is listed on this list, you will be required to apply for JESTA approval before traveling.

Below is the complete list of nations whose nationals will need JESTA:

• Europe: United Kingdom, Switzerland, Sweden, Spain, Slovenia, Slovakia, Serbia, San Marino, Romania, Portugal, Poland, Norway, North Macedonia, Netherlands, Monaco, Malta, Luxembourg, Lithuania, Liechtenstein, Latvia, Italy, Ireland, Iceland, Hungary, Greece, Germany, France, Finland, Estonia, Denmark, Czech Republic, Cyprus, Croatia, Bulgaria, Belgium, Austria, Andorra.
• Americas: Uruguay, United States, Suriname, Panama, Mexico, Honduras, Guatemala, El Salvador, Dominican Republic, Costa Rica, Chile, Canada, Brazil, Barbados, Bahamas, Argentina.
• Asia: United Arab Emirates, Turkey, Thailand, Taiwan, South Korea, Singapore, Qatar, Malaysia, Macau, Israel, Indonesia, Hong Kong, Brunei.
• Africa: Tunisia, Mauritius, Lesotho.
• Oceania: New Zealand, Australia.

For the most recent and updated list, check Japan’s Immigration Services Agency when the system is nearer to launch.

When JESTA Will Be Enforced

The Japanese authority had formerly targeted a 2030 introduction; however, Minister Suzuki has confirmed that they intend to hasten the introduction of JESTA by the end of fiscal 2028. The period provides the authorities with approximately 36 months to develop, examine, and implement the system.

What Should Travelers Do

While JESTA is not live for now, below is what future immigrants to Japan should anticipate:

• Remain updated through Japan’s immigration webpage and official embassy notifications.
• Travelers from visa-excluded nations will be required to apply to JESTA before departure.
• Prepare your documents, such as travel information and your passport. A small charge may be required, similar to the ESTA system.

When this is activated, applying for JESTA will become a normal aspect of travel for several people visiting Japan.

In conclusion, JESTA marks a significant initiative in Japan’s efforts to modernize immigration, striking a balance between tourism development and national security.