More tax hikes are on the way for travellers.
Many travellers are already grappling with ETIAS, the European Travel Information and Authorisation System which, from late 2026, will allow foreigners to travel to the Schengen Area in Europe.
Others are coping with ESTA, the electronic travel authorisation needed to enter the United States, and ETA, the authorisation needed to enter the UK.
Now get ready for JESTA, the Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorisation, due in 2028, which will require pre-screening for foreign nationals entering from visa-waiver countries.
One of the changes under consideration for fiscal 2026 is an increase in the international tourist tax, also known as the departure tax.
Established in 2019, each departing passenger currently pays a fee of 1,000 yen (US$6.70).
The government is now working out the details which will see charges increased in line with fees levied elsewhere in the world.
There is also consideration for an increase in the visa processing fee. Japan’s visa fees have not changed since 1978.
AloJapan.com