Japan to begin prescreening visa-free travellers by 2028

Japan will begin pre-arrival screening for visa-free travellers starting in the 2028 fiscal year, according to the Ministry of Justice. The government confirmed that the new process will apply to travellers from countries that do not require a visa for short-term stays in Japan.

The move is part of efforts to improve the entry process and attract more international visitors. Travellers will be required to submit personal and travel information such as their name, purpose of visit, and planned location several days before arrival. The Immigration Services Agency will then examine the details. Those with a criminal record or a history of irregular stay in Japan may not be permitted to board their flight.

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The Ministry stated that this system is similar to the United States’ Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), which was introduced in 2001. Other countries, including Canada, have since developed similar systems. Japan’s government is aiming to make border control more efficient through digital tools and reduced need for in-person procedures.

As of now, nationals from 71 countries and regions, including the United States and South Korea, can enter Japan without a visa for short-term stays. The new measure will affect these travellers, who will be expected to provide the required details ahead of time.

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Japan recorded 36.87 million international tourists in 2024, up 47.1 per cent from 2023, setting a new high. The government has set a target of 60 million visitors by 2030. Tourism is a key contributor to Japan’s economy.

In July 2024, the government also introduced a preclearance system to reduce airport entry time. In addition, Japan’s electronic visa system became available to nationals from Australia, Cambodia, Brazil, Canada, Singapore, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, the United Arab Emirates, Taiwan, the United Kingdom, and the United States. During the application process, applicants may still be required to visit the Japanese overseas establishment responsible for their area for an interview.

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The Ministry said these changes are part of a broader plan to make the travel experience smoother while keeping border security in focus. The prescreening system is expected to support faster airport processing and help identify any risks before departure.