In a major move to boost tourism and streamline immigration, Japan has announced visa-free entry for citizens of 71 countries and will introduce a new electronic travel authorisation system called JESTA by 2028—two years ahead of its previously scheduled launch in 2030.

The announcement was made by Japan’s Minister of Justice, Keisuke Suzuki, during a parliamentary session on April 23. He stated that the aim is to replicate the efficiency of the U.S.'s ESTA program to better manage the growing number of international travellers.

What is JESTA?

JESTA, short for Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorisation, will be mandatory for travellers from visa-exempt countries. Visitors will need to complete an online application before their departure to Japan, providing personal details, travel plans, and accommodation information. Once approved, they’ll receive a digital permit, valid for short stays of up to 90 days.

Denied applications will prevent travellers from boarding flights to Japan.

Why JESTA is being introduced

The JESTA system is designed to:

Strengthen border security
Pre-screen travellers before departure
Speed up the immigration process
Reduce airport congestion
Enable automated and efficient passenger screening

Citizens of countries including the U.S., U.K., UAE, Australia, Canada, Brazil, Germany, France, South Korea, and 61 others currently enjoying visa-free access to Japan will be required to apply through JESTA starting in 2028.

List of countries granted visa-free entry

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

Benefits for travellers

The implementation of JESTA will offer travellers faster immigration processing, less waiting time at airports, enhanced safety checks, and smoother entry experiences. The move aligns with Japan’s tourism goals of welcoming 60 million international visitors annually by 2030.

This strategic step places Japan on a more advanced global tourism map, reinforcing its commitment to efficient, secure, and modern border management.