Japan launches new mandatory online travel authorization system for tourists
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A new procedure is being introduced for all incoming visitors to simplify the travel process and improve security in a popular tourist destination.
Travelers to Japan will need to register with the Japan Electronic Travel Authorization System (JESTA) and pay a fee of approximately US$19 (3,000 yen).
Visitors must apply online for a “single-entry short-stay visa for tourism purposes for up to 90 days” before their trip, according to a government website.
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Applications require a passport and personal information, travel itinerary and accommodation details.
“Japanese overseas organizations normally take five business days to review and issue the visa after receiving the complete application,” says Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (JMFA).
Japan’s new JESTA e-visa system requires travelers to apply online and pay a US$19 fee before visiting the country. (iStock)
“Meanwhile, it may take longer during periods of high demand or if the situation requires further clarification,” JMFA adds.
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Applicants can apply up to three months before their travel.
In the new program, passport and personal information, travel itinerary and accommodation details are requested. (Philip Fong/AFP via Getty Images)
The e-VISA application was launched in December.
According to local sources, it will be fully implemented by the end of March 2029.
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According to government tourism statistics, 42.7 million international people visited Japan in 2025.
Recently, France, Italy, Portugal, the United Kingdom and 25 other countries have started implementing a new Entry/Exit System (EES) and by April 10 it will be fully implemented.
42.7 million international visitors traveled to Japan in 2025 alone. (iStock)
“These European countries will introduce different elements of EES in phases, including the collection of biometric data such as facial images and fingerprints,” the European Union (EU) website stated.
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“This means that biometric data (facial image and fingerprints) may not be collected immediately at each border crossing point and personal information may not be recorded in the system.”
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Manual passport stamping is being replaced by automatic digital registration.
