Japan introduces visa-free entry for 71 countries, launches JESTA

Japan introduces visa-free entry for 71 countries, launches JESTA

Japan is set to introduce a new electronic travel authorisation system (JESTA), to streamline immigration

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.

#visaapplication #belarustourism #belarusvisa #explorebelarus #visitbelarus #traveltobelarus #work #facts #history #jesta

for more information.
https://samaa.tv/2087332573-japan-introduces-visa-free-entry-for-71-countries-launches-jesta#google_vignette