TBM Staff - Mumbai
Japan will soon mandate that travellers from 71 visa-free countries, including Malaysia and Singapore, obtain online travel authorisation before entering the country. This new system, similar to the U.S. ESTA, will require travellers to submit personal details online before departure. This measure aims to enhance border security and streamline entry procedures. The initiative, part of Japan’s broader tourism plan, is expected to be fully implemented by 2030.
Currently, citizens from visa-exempt countries such as Indonesia, Thailand, South Korea, the UK, the U.S., and Australia do not need a visa to enter Japan. The new system will require these travellers to provide their purpose of visit and accommodation details for review by Japan’s Immigration Services Agency. Those flagged as potential overstays will be denied authorisation and must apply for a formal visa through their local embassy.
Japan’s government plans to fund this travel authorisation system in next year’s budget, aiming to bolster entry management and security. Data from JTB Tourism Research and Consulting Co shows that Japan welcomed around 22,000 visitors from Malaysia between January and June, contributing to a total of over 17.7 million visits during that period.
Under the existing system, airlines send passenger information to the Japanese government shortly after takeoff for screening. However, travellers who fail this screening can still enter Japan, and non-compliance with departure orders has been an issue. The new system is designed to address these concerns by preventing illegal stays and better managing entry.
The Japanese government has reported significant system abuse, with over 28,000 of 49,801 illegal short-term visitors in January 2016 coming from visa-exempt countries. This high rate of overstays has driven the need for enhanced measures to ensure compliance and secure Japan’s borders.
