Kiyomizu-dera, Kyoto | Image credit:
Hahaha A/Unsplash
Japan plans to roll out a pre-arrival screening system for visa-free travellers by 2028 to enhance immigration efficiency and security amid its surging inbound tourism. The Justice Ministry hinted in April 2024 that the new system will be modelled on the United States’ Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA), a pre-arrival screening process introduced in response to the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.
Under this upcoming scheme, travellers from the 71 countries and regions currently exempt from short-term visas must submit personal and travel information several days before arriving in Japan. This data, including names, travel purpose, and locations, will enable the Immigration Services Agency of Japan to conduct thorough pre-screening. Those flagged for criminal history or previous immigration violations may be denied boarding before departure, strengthening border security.
Also, find the best time to travel to Japan with our seasonal guide.
Japan’s plans to enhance pre-arrival screening: What we know
Japan to launch prescreening of visa-free travelers in FY 2028#Japan #travel #ESTA https://t.co/OngizIRPkQ
— Kyodo News | Japan (@kyodo_english) May 19, 2025
Japan’s tourism industry is undoubtedly on a robust recovery path. By March this year, the country had surpassed 10 million foreign visitors—the fastest on record — driven by a weak yen and social-media-driven tourism demand. According to Japan National Tourism Organisation data, arrivals hit 3.5 million in March alone, bringing the first-quarter total to 10.54 million. The new pre-arrival screening process can hence prove central to Japan’s growth strategy.
Currently, citizens of the US and visa-exempt countries like Canada, Australia, Singapore, Malaysia, South Korea, and more can enter Japan for short-term stays (under 90 days) without a visa, but must ensure timely departure. If required, visas must be obtained before travel. All visitors must complete immigration and customs declarations online via the Visit Japan Web before arrival.
(Feature image credit: Hahaha A/Unsplash)
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Note:
The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.
Written By
Sneha Chakraborty
Sneha Chakraborty is a journalist and photographer covering how travel intersects with food, culture, ..Read Moreand identity. Her reporting has appeared in National Geographic Traveller India, Lonely Planet, Conde Nast Traveller, Vogue India, and Hindustan Times, where she spent two years on staff as a correspondent covering travel and culture. She is an alumna of the University of Westminster`s Westminster School of Media, Arts and Design. Currently based in Delhi, she grew up in various cities across India and has lived in Amsterdam, and London. Read Less
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