Japan JESTA 2028: Mandatory Pre-Travel Authorization for 74 Visa-Exempt Countries, Including Brazil

Published: 2026-02-23T10:15+05:30 (IST) Xavio

Japan JESTA: Documents you'll need

Japan is preparing to join the global trend of digital border screening with the introduction of JESTA — the Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorization. The new system, modeled closely on the U.S. ESTA and the upcoming UK ETA, will require travelers from 74 visa-waiver countries — including Brazil — to obtain online approval before boarding flights or other transport to Japan.

The proposal, first reported by Nikkei and confirmed across multiple sources on February 22–23, 2026, will be submitted as a bill in the coming weeks. If passed, JESTA is expected to become mandatory in the 2028 fiscal year (April 2028–March 2029), giving travelers and airlines several years to prepare.

Who Will Need JESTA?

The requirement will apply to citizens of all countries and territories currently eligible for visa-free short stays in Japan (up to 90 days for most, 15–30 days for some). The full list includes:

• Americas: Brazil, Canada, United States, Argentina, Chile, Mexico, Costa Rica, Panama, Uruguay, and more

• Europe: All EU/Schengen countries, United Kingdom, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland

• Asia-Pacific: Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, Singapore, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Brunei, Malaysia (with conditions)

• Others: UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and additional nations with reciprocal exemptions

Currently, nationals from these 74 jurisdictions can enter Japan visa-free for tourism, business, or transit. Once JESTA launches, they will need to apply online in advance — even for short layovers or quick visits.

How JESTA Will Work

• Online application — Travelers submit passport details, travel purpose, address in Japan, and background questions (similar to ESTA)

• Fee — Expected to be low (likely ¥500–¥2,000, based on comparable systems)

• Validity — Likely 2 years or until passport expiry, with multiple entries allowed

• Processing — Real-time or near-instant approval in most cases; some may take up to 72 hours

• Purpose — Enhance security, prevent overstays, and screen for risks while maintaining visa-free access for genuine visitors

The system will be operated by the Immigration Services Agency of Japan and integrated with airline check-in systems — no JESTA = no boarding.

Why Now? Security & Tourism Balance

Japan has seen rapid recovery in inbound tourism post-pandemic, with record visitor numbers in 2025. The government wants to maintain open borders for genuine tourists while addressing concerns about illegal stays, crime, and overstays — especially as visitor numbers approach pre-COVID peaks.

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi highlighted JESTA in her February 20, 2026 policy speech, framing it as a tool to achieve “zero illegal migrants” while supporting tourism growth.

Impact on Indian Travelers

Indian passport holders currently require a visa for Japan and are not affected by JESTA (since India is not visa-exempt). However, if Japan expands visa-free access or simplifies e-visas for Indians in the future, JESTA could become relevant. For now, the change primarily impacts Brazilians and citizens of the 73 other visa-waiver nations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When will JESTA become mandatory?

Expected rollout in fiscal year 2028 (April 2028 onward), pending parliamentary approval.

Q: Which countries will need JESTA?

All 74 nations/regions currently visa-exempt for short stays, including Brazil, USA, Canada, Australia, UK, EU countries, South Korea, Singapore, and more.

Q: Will Indians be affected?

No — India is not visa-exempt, so JESTA does not apply. Indians continue to need a traditional visa or e-visa (where available).

Q: How much will JESTA cost?

Not yet announced, but likely low (similar to US ESTA ~USD 21 or UK ETA ~£10).

Q: Where can I get official updates?

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan or Immigration Services Agency sites.

For the latest official announcements on Japan's visa policy, visa exemptions, and future JESTA rollout, visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan Visa Information page.

For more on global digital travel authorization trends (including UK ETA, EU ETIAS, US ESTA, and how they affect Indians), check our comprehensive guide: France Visa-Free Transit for Indians & 30,000 Students Goal by 2030.

Stay informed on evolving border rules — explore our dedicated Japan immigration section for updates and application tips. Japan’s next travel chapter is going digital!