Visitors to Japan, including Thai nationals, will be required to obtain advance online immigration approval before travelling, as the country tightens border security and steps up screening to curb overstays and illegal employment.
The Japanese government plans to introduce the Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorization (Jesta) in 2028, with the exact start date to be announced later, according to the Jesta website.
“Starting by the end of fiscal year 2028, travellers will need to apply for Jesta Japan approval before boarding flights to Japan,” the website said. Japan’s fiscal year begins on April 1.
Several media outlets report that a non-refundable application fee of 3,000 yen (about 600 baht) is being considered.
The new requirement will apply to travellers from 71 visa-exempt countries. Currently, Thai visitors can enter Japan without a visa for up to 15 days, as Tokyo continues to encourage international arrivals to support tourism and economic growth.
At present, travellers from visa-free countries can complete entry procedures by applying online for a free immigration QR code or filling out an immigration card upon arrival at Japanese airports or seaports. This process will change once Jesta is implemented.
“Without a valid Jesta Japan approval, boarding a flight to Japan could be denied,” Japanese media reported.
The measure is intended to strengthen national security and address issues related to overstaying and illegal work. Foreign residents living in Japan will be exempt.
To introduce Jesta, the government must first secure parliamentary approval for a bill amending the Immigration Control Law. The administration is expected to submit the bill “soon” so lawmakers can deliberate on it during the current parliamentary session, according to Japan Times.
Under the proposed changes, airlines and shipping companies will also be required to submit passenger information to the Japanese Immigration Services Agency. Travellers whose Jesta applications are rejected will not be permitted to board planes or ships bound for Japan, Japanese media added.
Japan welcomed 38 million short-term visitors in 2025, around 80% of whom came from visa-free countries, Japan Times reported.
Japan’s move follows similar systems adopted elsewhere, including the United States. Last month, Singapore also began requiring travellers to obtain an electronic arrival card in advance, with airlines instructed to deny boarding to passengers whose applications are rejected.
