Disclaimer: Details about JESTA are still developing and may change. Always check the official JESTA page for the latest updates.
What is JESTA?
JESTA, short for Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorization, is Japan’s upcoming digital pre-entry system. It will require travelers from visa-exempt countries to apply online before departure. Once approved, the authorization will be linked to their passport and checked at boarding and entry.
In simple terms, it’s Japan’s version of the US ESTA or Canada’s eTA, and part of a growing global trend toward digital entry pre-screening. The Philippines also launched a similar system called eTravel Philippines, which serves the same purpose of collecting passenger data in advance.
Please note that JESTA is not the same as a Japan visa or eVisa, and the requirements vary based on your nationality. Please refer to your local Japanese embassy for more details.
Why is JESTA being introduced?
Japan has seen record-breaking tourism numbers and expects even more growth in the coming years. JESTA was introduced to:
- Improve border security by screening visitors before they travel.
- Manage higher tourist volumes without overwhelming immigration officers.
- Speed up arrivals for low-risk travelers who are pre-cleared.
By requiring travelers to submit details online, Japan can flag issues early and streamline the airport experience for most visitors.
Who will need JESTA?
If you currently travel to Japan without needing a visa, you’ll likely need JESTA once it’s implemented. This covers short-stay visitors from over 70 countries including:
- United States and Canada
- Most European countries
- Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore
- South Korea and Malaysia
Travelers who already need a visa for Japan won’t use JESTA as it only applies to visa-exempt nationals.
When will JESTA start?
Japan has announced a rollout around fiscal year 2028. Pilot phases may be tested earlier, but full implementation is still a few years away.
This means you don’t need to apply for JESTA yet, but it’s worth keeping an eye on updates from Japan’s Immigration Services Agency.
How will JESTA work?
While details are not final, JESTA is expected to follow a process similar to ESTA and eTA:
- Online application through a government website or app
- Personal details such as name, passport number, and date of birth
- Trip information including arrival and accommodation details
- Security questions about travel history or criminal background
- Fee payment (exact amount not yet confirmed)
- Electronic approval linked to your passport, valid for multiple entries over 3 years
Airlines will likely check JESTA approval before boarding, so applying early will be essential.
JESTA vs Visit Japan Web
A common question is whether JESTA will replace Visit Japan Web. The answer is no. They are different systems:
- Visit Japan Web: already active, used for quarantine, customs, and immigration forms to speed up arrivals (digital arrival card).
- JESTA: not yet active, will be a pre-travel authorization (like a background check) required before flying.
In practice, travelers may need to complete both systems in the future: JESTA before departure, and Visit Japan Web closer to arrival.
How JESTA compares to other systems
- US ESTA: Requires travelers from visa waiver countries to apply online, valid for two years.
- Canada eTA: Works the same way, also linked electronically to passports.
- eTravel Philippines: Functions as a digital arrival form, part of a shift toward paperless entry.
JESTA fits right into this global move, showing that pre-travel authorization is becoming the new normal.
Preparing for JESTA
Here are some tips to be ready when JESTA launches:
- Keep your passport valid for at least six months.
- Apply early. The official site suggests 72 hours before your flight, although approval is done within minutes.
- Have your itinerary and accommodation ready when filling out the form.
- Save a copy of your approval (digital and printed).
Conclusion: Travel with JESTA and stay connected easily
JESTA will soon be a necessary step for millions of Japan-bound travelers. While it means more pre-trip planning, the trade-off is smoother arrivals and faster immigration. To make the process easier, having reliable mobile data is key for checking emails, showing approvals, or navigating after landing.
With Eskimo, you can install a global eSIM before departure and stay connected the moment you land in Japan. Eskimo’s long-validity data plans, instant data transfer, and borderless coverage ensure you’re ready for both JESTA confirmations and everyday travel needs. New users can even claim a free global eSIM trial, making it the easiest way to stay online abroad.
FAQs
Will JESTA replace Visit Japan Web?
No. Visit Japan Web is for customs and immigration forms, while JESTA is a pre-travel authorization. You may need to complete both.
How long will a JESTA approval last?
The validity period hasn’t been confirmed yet, but based on similar systems it will likely cover multiple entries over 2–3 years.
Do I need JESTA if I already have a Japanese visa?
No. JESTA applies only to travelers from visa-exempt countries.
How much will JESTA cost?
The fee has not been announced yet. Expect a modest charge similar to ESTA or eTA.
