CreatripTeam

Japan plans to introduce an electronic travel authorization system called JESTA (similar to the U.S. ESTA) and is considering charging fees for visa-exempt short-term visitors starting around 2028. Travelers will submit personal and trip details online for pre-screening; if concerns arise, entry may be denied and a visa required. Fee levels will reference the U.S. ESTA’s $40 charge. The move is part of broader efforts to raise revenue as Japan faces increasing public spending; officials are also weighing hikes to the departure tax (international tourism tax) and long-frozen visa issuance fees. The government aims to raise about 300 billion yen through higher traveler charges.