Japan Explores Travel Fee for Tourists as Part of New Electronic Authorization System, Here’s All You Need to Know

Published on December 25, 2025

Japan is set to undergo a big transformation in its entry requirements for foreign visitors, with the Japanese government putting forward an entry fee as part of its new electronic travel authorization system. Scheduled to be launched in fiscal year 2028, Japan’s new electronic travel authorization system, referred to as Jesta Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorization, will compel foreign visitors from 71 countries who can enter Japan visa-free to apply for an electronic pre-registration before gaining access.

The Japanese government has been debating the introduction of a charge that may range between 2,000 and 3,000 yen (approximately 13-20 euros) per traveler for such an online travel authorization system intended for entering the country. Such an initiative is part of the government’s efforts to control an increasing number of travelers visiting the country, hence enhancing security for such travelers. Such an initiative may be positively correlated with the ever-growing demand for travel to the country due to its popularity.

Why Japan Is Implementing Jesta: Security and Tourism Management

Japan has seen an explosion in foreign visitors, with over 40 million people traveling to the country in 2025. This surge has led to pressure on the country’s infrastructure, especially airports and immigration processes, which often face long queues, particularly during peak travel seasons. Jesta is expected to help mitigate these issues by allowing Japanese authorities to pre-screen passengers before their arrival, improving both security and the flow of travelers.

The Japanese government’s goals for Jesta include:

• Improved security: Preventing terrorism and illegal activities before travelers even board their flights.
• Managing tourist crowds: Reducing congestion at border control and entry points, which has been exacerbated by a rise in international tourism.
• Curbing illegal employment: Ensuring that visitors adhere to Japan’s employment laws by identifying potential risks earlier in the process.

Jesta will replace the existing digital arrival cards that foreign visitors use upon entry. This pre-travel registration is designed to streamline the process, with the aim of reducing wait times and enhancing overall security.

What Jesta Means for Travelers

Jesta is similar to other international travel authorization systems, such as the U.S. ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) and the EU’s upcoming ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System). Under this system, travelers from visa-exempt countries will need to apply for authorization online before departure and receive confirmation to board their flight.

Once implemented, tourists will complete their travel authorization application from the comfort of their own home, avoiding the need to fill out forms at the airport or upon arrival. This will likely lead to a smoother, quicker immigration process and more efficient entry into Japan.

The introduction of Jesta comes as part of Japan’s broader strategy to better manage the flow of international tourists while maintaining strict security protocols. Given the country’s vulnerability to natural disasters such as earthquakes and typhoons, Jesta will also help Japan better communicate and assist tourists during emergencies, using the fee revenue to support such services.

The Proposed Entry Fee and Its Potential Impact on Travelers

The entry fee for Jesta is still under negotiation, but the charge is expected to range between 2,000 and 3,000 yen (about €13 to €20). While this fee would make Japan’s system comparable to similar programs in the United States and Canada, it may add a modest cost to travelers’ trip expenses.

However, considering Japan’s popularity as a travel destination, this entry fee is unlikely to deter most tourists. The fee is designed as an administrative charge, not a financial barrier, and it offers an efficient and streamlined experience that could ultimately save travelers time and effort. Visitors may appreciate the convenience of completing the application online, particularly when it means avoiding long queues at the airport.

The revenue generated from the entry fee is expected to support services for tourists, particularly during natural disasters, a consideration in a country known for its seismic activity and extreme weather events. This could prove valuable for tourists who may need assistance during an emergency, ensuring they receive clear guidance and support if needed.

Japan’s Growing Tourism Industry and the Need for Sustainable Management

Japan’s tourism industry has experienced a significant boom in recent years, driven by factors such as a weak yen, increased flight availability, and a growing global interest in the country’s unique culture, cuisine, and seasonal beauty. Popular cities such as Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka have seen a surge in visitors, placing strain on local infrastructure and raising concerns about sustainability.

While the increased number of foreign tourists has been economically beneficial, it has also led to challenges in managing overcrowding, particularly at major tourist attractions, transportation hubs, and accommodation. The implementation of Jesta and the proposed entry fee signals a shift towards more controlled and sustainable tourism practices in Japan.

By introducing a travel authorization system that screens travelers before departure, Japan aims to alleviate some of the stress on its borders and better manage the flow of tourists. This proactive approach aligns with global trends in the tourism industry, where countries are increasingly adopting measures to balance security concerns with the demand for travel.

Benefits for Japan’s Tourism and Economy

While the additional fee might seem like a small cost to travelers, it reflects Japan’s commitment to maintaining the quality of its tourism infrastructure and services. The entry fee could have several benefits for both tourists and the country’s economy:

• Improved traveler experience: With pre-screening, travelers will face fewer delays and smoother entry into the country.
• Increased safety: The system will help Japan address security concerns by identifying potential risks before tourists arrive.
• Financial support for tourism services: The revenue generated will be reinvested into disaster management and communication services, ensuring better support for foreign visitors during emergencies.

Additionally, the introduction of Jesta marks Japan’s commitment to ensuring that tourism continues to be a sustainable driver of economic growth, particularly as the country faces increasing demand for travel experiences.

The Future of Japan’s Entry Procedures: What Travelers Should Expect

If the proposed system is implemented as planned in fiscal year 2028, travelers to Japan will need to account for both the online application process and the potential entry fee. While the details are still being finalized, tourists planning trips to Japan will need to prepare for the changes, ensuring they complete their travel authorization applications well in advance of their departure.

The introduction of Jesta represents one of the most significant changes to Japan’s entry procedures in decades, aligning the country with global trends in electronic travel authorization. For travelers, it’s a relatively small adjustment but one that will help ensure a more efficient and secure travel experience when visiting Japan.

A New Era for Japan’s Travel System

Japan’s decision to introduce a fee as part of its new electronic travel authorization system is part of the measures being implemented to control the rising demand for travel in the country and improve its efficiency and security measures. The introduction of a fee will have little or no impact on most visitors to the travel destination of choice.

However, with the implementation of Jesta, Japan can prepare for the sustainable and safe management of this increase in tourism that may be expected in the future. With millions of tourists visiting Japan annually, it can be expected that these new policies will eventually become a normal part of the travelling experience for tourists visiting Japan.