Japan Considers Ending In-Person Immigration Checks

Japan is considering eliminating routine face-to-face immigration inspections for most foreign visitors as the government moves to streamline entry procedures amid a record surge in tourism.

The Immigration Services Agency of Japan said it plans to introduce a pre-travel screening system known as the Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorization, or JESTA, which is expected to launch in fiscal 2028.

Under the proposed system, foreign travelers would submit key information online before departure, including the purpose of their visit. Immigration authorities would then approve or deny travel authorization before passengers board flights to Japan.

Officials said removing mandatory face-to-face checks at airports would help reduce congestion and speed up border processing, an approach that remains rare globally.

The Japanese government is preparing legal changes to support the system through an amendment to the country’s immigration control law, which is expected to be introduced during the current session of the National Diet of Japan.

The new rules would apply primarily to travelers from countries that do not require short-stay visas. Currently, citizens of 74 countries and territories can enter Japan under visa-exempt arrangements.

Japan recorded a record 42.7 million foreign visitors in 2025 and aims to increase that figure to 60 million annually by 2030, according to government targets.

Travelers suspected of intending to overstay their visas could be denied boarding under the JESTA system before they reach Japan.

At major airports, digital border control technology is already in use. Visitors arriving at facilities such as Narita International Airport, Haneda Airport, Kansai International Airport and Fukuoka Airport can complete immigration and customs procedures using an automated system known as the Integrated Kiosk, which collects fingerprints and photographs.

Under the planned framework, travelers with no immigration concerns would pass directly through automated gates, while officers would remain nearby to conduct inspections if suspicious activity is detected.

Authorities say the expansion of automated border control is a key part of Japan’s strategy to handle rapidly growing tourist arrivals while maintaining immigration security.