Japan Joins Rome (Italy), Norway, Spain, United Kingdom, Thailand in Proposing and Introducing New Tourist Entry Fee: This is What Everything You Need To Know

Published on December 26, 2025

By: Tuhin Sarkar

Japan joins Rome (Italy), Norway, Spain, United Kingdom, and Thailand in proposing and introducing new tourist entry fees. These countries are reshaping how tourists access their iconic destinations. Japan, following the lead of these popular locations, is set to implement an electronic travel authorisation system, with a new entry fee, making it the latest country to adopt this trend. As travel becomes more regulated, these entry fees aim to enhance security, manage tourist numbers, and improve infrastructure. Here’s everything you need to know about how these fees will impact your future travels to Japan, Rome, Thailand, and beyond.

Japan’s New Tourist Entry Fee: What This Means for You – Jesta System Could Change Everything!

Japan, known for its rich culture, innovative technology, and stunning landscapes, is considering implementing a new entry fee for tourists. This could be a game-changer for those planning to visit the Land of the Rising Sun. As Japan faces a record number of visitors, the government is introducing a new electronic travel authorization system called Jesta. But what does this mean for you as a traveller? Keep reading to find out how Japan’s move towards a fee for entry could impact future trips.

Japan’s Growing Popularity: The Surge in Visitor Numbers

Japan’s tourism industry is booming, with more than 40 million foreign visitors arriving this year alone. Cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka are experiencing an overwhelming influx of tourists. This surge in visitor numbers has led to concerns over overcrowding and sustainable tourism. To manage this growth, Japan is looking at solutions like the Jesta system to help with crowd control, improve security, and streamline the travel process.

What is Jesta and How Will it Affect You?

Jesta, the Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorization, will require travellers from visa-exempt countries to apply online for travel authorization before boarding their flight. This is similar to the United States’ ESTA system and the European Union’s ETIAS programme. While it’s still in the planning stages, the new system will replace the existing digital arrival cards used by foreign visitors.

The new system will allow Japanese authorities to screen passengers before they even arrive. This pre-screening will help to identify potential risks early, enhancing security and curbing illegal activities such as illegal employment. Additionally, Jesta will speed up the entry process by moving checks to the pre-travel stage, ensuring smoother arrivals at Japan’s airports and ports of entry.

The New Entry Fee: A Modest Price for Convenience?

Japan’s government is also considering introducing a small entry fee to help fund this new system. The proposed fee, which could range from 2,000 to 3,000 yen (€13 to €20), will not be a huge burden for most tourists, but it is a sign of Japan’s growing efforts to manage tourism more effectively. The fee would place Japan in the middle range of entry fees, with similar systems in countries like the US and Canada costing between €5 and €30.

The revenue from the fee will not only help cover the cost of Jesta but will also go towards supporting tourists during emergencies like earthquakes and typhoons. Japan is prone to natural disasters, and the government aims to ensure tourists have access to timely assistance and communication in these situations.

Why is Japan Introducing This System?

The introduction of the Jesta system and its associated fee is Japan’s way of managing the growing pressures on its tourism industry. With record visitor numbers, Japan needs to balance tourism with sustainability. The new system will also help with better crowd control, improving the visitor experience by reducing long queues and wait times at border controls. While it may feel like an extra step for travellers, the benefits of a faster, more secure, and efficient entry process are hard to ignore.

The Shift in Global Tourism Trends: Japan Competes with the US and Canada

As Japan continues to rise in popularity, it is competing with major tourism giants like the US and Canada. The introduction of the Jesta system places Japan in line with other global destinations that have already implemented similar travel authorisation systems. These include the US’s ESTA and the EU’s ETIAS. While Japan’s fee may seem small, it’s a reflection of the country’s growing efforts to manage an increasing number of tourists while maintaining a high standard of service and security.

European Union’s ETIAS: The New Entry Barrier for Travellers

The European Union’s ETIAS system will also introduce a mandatory tourist entry fee for visa-exempt travellers. Starting in 2026, those wishing to visit any of the 30 Schengen Area countries will need to apply for an ETIAS before travel. The cost for ETIAS is set at €20, but it will only apply to visitors aged 18 to 70.

The introduction of ETIAS is part of the EU’s broader security and tourism management strategy, which aims to improve border control and pre-screen passengers. While the fee may seem small, it is a big step towards regulating travel within the Schengen zone. This will undoubtedly change how tourists plan their trips to France, Germany, and other popular EU destinations.

Thailand’s Tourist Tax: A Fee to Enter Paradise

In Thailand, a 300-baht entry fee is set to be introduced by mid-2026 for tourists arriving by air. For land and sea arrivals, the fee will be 150 baht. This move is part of Thailand’s broader effort to manage tourism growth and promote sustainable travel. The revenue generated will go towards improving tourism infrastructure and ensuring that tourists have access to safety services during natural disasters or emergencies.

Given that Thailand is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Asia, this new fee could significantly impact budget travellers. However, the Thai government is emphasising the positive impact of the fee, ensuring that tourists benefit from enhanced services during their stay. The introduction of this entry fee is part of Thailand’s long-term tourism strategy, aiming to strike a balance between tourism growth and sustainability.

Kenya’s New eTA System: Paying for a Seamless Travel Experience

In Kenya, a new electronic travel authorisation (eTA) system is being rolled out, requiring most visitors to apply online before their trip. This new system was fully implemented as of January 2024, and the eTA fee is set at around USD 30. The eTA simplifies the process for tourists and business travellers visiting Kenya, making it easier and faster to enter the country.

The Kenyan government has introduced this fee as part of a broader tourism management strategy aimed at streamlining border controls, enhancing security, and supporting tourism development. This fee is necessary as Kenya continues to see rising visitor numbers, especially to Nairobi, Maasai Mara, and other wildlife hotspots. The Kenya eTA ensures that tourists can get a smooth entry experience, while the USD 30 fee will go toward supporting Kenya’s tourism industry.

How Will These Fees Affect Global Tourism?

As more countries introduce new tourist entry fees, we are seeing a global shift in how tourism is regulated. These fees are being implemented for a variety of reasons: to manage crowd control, enhance security, improve infrastructure, and ensure sustainable tourism. For countries like Japan, Kenya, Thailand, and the European Union, these changes reflect a bigger picture — the growing demand for tourism and the need to regulate and support the industry.

For travellers, these new fees may seem like just another cost, but in reality, they will likely result in improved travel experiences. Shorter queues, better safety protocols, and enhanced infrastructure will make your trip more enjoyable and secure. While the fees may vary by country, the bottom line is clear: tourists must be ready to pay for convenience and security.

Tourist Entry Fees Are Here to Stay: What Does This Mean for the Future of Travel?

As we move into the second half of this decade, tourist entry fees are set to become a standard part of international travel. While some fees may seem small, they represent a bigger trend in global tourism. More countries are realising that managing tourist numbers, ensuring safety, and funding infrastructure requires a strategic investment — and that investment often comes in the form of fees.

These new fees are a sign of a changing travel landscape, one where countries are not just focusing on attracting tourists, but also ensuring **that the tourism experience is secure, enjoyable, and sustainable. As a traveller, it’s essential to stay up to date on the latest developments in tourist entry fees, eTA systems, and travel authorisation programmes. So, when you’re planning your next trip, make sure to account for these new costs. After all, the future of travel is changing fast, and those who stay ahead of the curve will be best prepared.

What Does This Mean for Future Travellers to Japan?

For travellers planning a trip to Japan in the coming years, it’s important to be aware of these changes. The Jesta system is set to be implemented by fiscal year 2028, so you’ll need to apply online before your trip. The small entry fee, while not a significant cost, may be something you need to factor into your budget. However, the benefits of streamlined entry, enhanced security, and better disaster management for tourists are likely to make the process smoother overall.

Japan’s Tourism Future: Balancing Growth with Sustainability

As Japan continues to experience record levels of tourism, the government must take steps to ensure that its famous destinations don’t become overwhelmed. The Jesta system is just one part of Japan’s plan to balance the demand for tourism with the need for sustainable growth. The new system will allow for better management of crowds, improve safety for tourists, and streamline the entry process, making Japan an even more attractive destination for future travellers.

The Bottom Line: A Smarter Way to Travel to Japan

Japan is set to make one of the most significant changes to its entry procedures in decades. The introduction of the Jesta system and the potential entry fee represent a major shift in the way the country handles tourism. While the fee might seem like an added cost, it’s a small price to pay for the convenience of a faster, safer, and more efficient travel experience. As Japan continues to welcome millions of visitors, these changes are necessary to ensure that tourism remains a positive force for the country and its economy.