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Japan considers ending face-to-face immigration checks as tourism booms

Release Date
2026-03-08
Media
Qazinform
Summary
Japan is considering eliminating face-to-face immigration checks for most foreign tourists to streamline entry procedures and reduce airport congestion as international travel increases. The plan would rely on a pre-screening system called the Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorization (JESTA), expected to launch in fiscal year 2028.

Under the new system, travelers from 74 visa-exempt countries and territories would submit their travel information online before departure. Immigration authorities would review the information in advance and could deny boarding to travelers suspected of overstaying.

At airports, visitors would use Integrated Kiosks that collect fingerprints and photos. If no issues are detected, travelers could enter Japan through automated gates without meeting an immigration officer, although officers would remain nearby for additional checks if necessary.

The proposal would require amendments to Japan’s Immigration Control Law, expected to be submitted to the Diet. The reform comes as Japan seeks to manage a tourism boom, after welcoming a record 42.7 million visitors in 2025, with a target of 60 million visitors by 2030.
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