JESTA 2028: Full Guide to Target Countries and Application Process for Japan Travel

Overview of JESTA

JESTA is a new system similar to the U.S. ESTA, designed to streamline entry for tourists while addressing overtourism and security. It’s expected to require travelers to get online authorization before their trip, making entry smoother but adding a pre-travel step.

Target Countries and Impact

It will apply to 71 visa-exempt countries, including major ones like the United States and the United Kingdom. This could mean more preparation for American travelers, but it aims to reduce wait times at entry.

Application Process

You’ll likely need to fill out an online form with personal info, purpose of visit, and where you’ll stay, pay a $28 fee, and get approval in 3 days. It’s designed to be user-friendly, but plan ahead.

Detailed Report

Japan is gearing up for a significant change in its tourism management with the introduction of the Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorization (JESTA), set to be implemented by the end of fiscal year 2028. This system, akin to the U.S. ESTA and the UK’s ETA, is designed to enhance security, manage the growing influx of tourists, and prevent overstays, particularly as Japan aims to welcome 60 million foreign visitors by 2030. Below, we delve into the details of JESTA, focusing on its target countries, application process, and broader implications for travelers.

Background and Purpose

JESTA is a response to the rapid increase in tourism, with Japan hosting 36.9 million foreign tourists in 2024 and projecting a rise to 60 million by 2030. The system aims to maintain order among tourists, manage overtourism, enhance security through pre-screening, and prevent overstays for short-term visas (14 to 90 days). It mirrors systems like the U.S. ESTA, requiring travelers to obtain online authorization before their trip, which is expected to streamline entry procedures while adding a layer of pre-travel preparation.

As of June 19, 2025, JESTA is still in the planning and development stage, having been officially named by Justice Minister Keisuke Suzuki on May 23, 2025. The acceleration from an original 2030 target to 2028 reflects Japan’s urgency to address tourism challenges, such as overcrowding at iconic sites like Mount Fuji.

Target Countries

JESTA will apply to visitors from 71 visa-exempt countries. Below is a breakdown of the regions and examples of affected countries:

Region	Countries (Examples)
North America	United States, Canada
Europe	United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy
Asia	Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand
Oceania	Australia, New Zealand
Others	Brazil, Argentina, United Arab Emirates

The complete list encompasses countries like Andorra, Austria, Bahamas, Barbados, Belgium, Brazil, Brunei, Bulgaria, Chile, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Estonia, Finland, Greece, Guatemala, Honduras, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Latvia, Lesotho, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macau, Malaysia, Malta, Mauritius, Mexico, Monaco, Netherlands, North Macedonia, Norway, Panama, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Romania, San Marino, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Suriname, Sweden, Switzerland, Tunisia, Turkey, Uruguay, and more. This broad scope means that a significant number of American travelers, particularly those from the U.S., will be affected, given Japan’s popularity as a destination.

Application Process and Requirements

The application process for JESTA is designed to be user-friendly and completed online, with the following steps and requirements:

Required Information: Travelers must provide personal details such as full name, date of birth, and passport information, along with the purpose of their visit (tourism, business, transit, etc.), accommodation details (hotel or address), and, if applicable, information about business contacts or medical institutions.

Application Steps:
1. Fill Out the Personal Data Form: Enter basic information like name, address, and email address.
2. Attach Required Documents: Upload a photo of the passport’s information page and a recent personal photo.
3. Pay the Application Fee: The fee is approximately 4,000 yen, which is about $28 at current exchange rates.
4. Submit the Application: Approval is typically granted within 3 business days.

This process is expected to be similar to other electronic travel authorization systems, ensuring efficiency but requiring travelers to plan ahead.

Validity and Multiple Entries

Once approved, JESTA authorization will be valid for 1 to 2 years, allowing multiple entries into Japan. This feature is particularly beneficial for frequent travelers or those planning multiple short trips, such as business travelers or tourists visiting for events like cherry blossom season multiple times within the validity period.

Implementation Timeline and Current Status

As of June 19, 2025, JESTA is not yet operational and remains in the planning and development phase. The official naming by Justice Minister Keisuke Suzuki on May 23, 2025, marks a significant milestone, with the system slated for full implementation by the end of fiscal year 2028. This earlier timeline, moved up from the original 2030 target, reflects Japan’s response to the tourism boom, with visitor numbers already reaching 36.9 million in 2024 and expected to grow.

Impact on Travelers

JESTA will add a pre-travel step, requiring online authorization before departure. While this may seem like an additional hassle, it is anticipated to simplify entry procedures upon arrival, potentially reducing wait times at airports. Travelers should regularly check the status of JESTA implementation through official channels and ensure they apply well in advance to avoid any last-minute issues. This is particularly important for those planning trips close to the 2028 implementation date, as details may evolve.

Official Information Sources

For the latest updates on JESTA, travelers can refer to the following official websites:

These sources will provide the most accurate and up-to-date information as the system nears implementation.

Supplementary Information

JESTA is seen as a critical measure to address challenges like overtourism and security risks, especially given Japan’s status as a top global destination. Travelers are advised to stay informed through immigration websites or embassy alerts, ensuring they comply with any updates to the system. This proactive approach will help ensure a smooth travel experience.

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