The Japanese government accepted to amend the Immigration Control Act to introduce JESTA or Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorization by the end of March in 2029.
The legal amendment aims to balance security and convenience in Japan's inbound tourism policy. By conducting screening before entry through prior authentication, it will prevent illegal overstaying and streamline immigration procedures for tourists and other short-term visitors.
Airlines and other passenger transport operators will be legally obligated to prevent unauthorized boarding.
After implementation, foreign travelers from visa-exempt countries must provide their identity information and travel purpose to the Minister of Justice (Immigration Services Agency) to apply for prior screening before departing for Japan. Application fees will be announced later.
