The Japanese government plans to implement the “Electronic Travel Authorization System” (JESTA) starting in April 2028, and will charge a processing fee. JESTA is modeled after the U.S. Electronic Travel Authorization System (ESTA), requiring visa-free travelers to declare their occupation, accommodation, and purpose of entry online before departure. Officials are currently evaluating a processing fee of 2,000 to 3,000 yen.
The Japanese government plans to submit an amendment to the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act (hereinafter referred to as the Immigration and Refugee Recognition Act) to the regular Diet session next year, which would include the creation of JESTA (Japan Experience Class A visa). According to Kyodo News, Japan expects to receive over 4,000 million visitors this year. Collecting application fees for JESTA is expected to generate revenue for Japan.
In addition, the Japanese government plans to raise visa fees starting in 2026 to align with those in Europe and the United States, thereby curbing the burden of excessive tourism.
The current visa fee for a single entry visa to Japan is 3,000 yen, and for a multiple entry visa it is 6,000 yen. The authorities believe that the current fee level is too low, fails to reflect the costs of review and administration, and is insufficient to cover the manpower burden. Future adjustments to visa fees will be based on the standards of G7 and OECD member countries.
｜Extended reading｜Japan plans to raise visa fees in 2026 to ease tourism pressure and simultaneously launch an electronic travel certification system
AloJapan.com