Full Breakdown
Japan Proposes Major Changes to Immigration Control
3/10/2026, 10:11:05 AM
Overview of the Proposed Immigration Changes
On March 10, 2023, the Japanese government approved a Bill to amend the immigration control law, which aims to establish an online pre-entry screening system known as the Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorization (JESTA). This system is set to be implemented in fiscal 2028 and will significantly increase application fees for residence status for foreigners. The proposed changes come as Japan seeks to streamline entry procedures amid a surge in tourism, with a record 42.7 million foreign visitors recorded in 2025 and an ambitious target of 60 million by 2030.
Key Features of the JESTA System
The JESTA system will require travelers from 74 countries and regions currently exempt from short-term visas to submit their travel information online prior to departure. This includes details such as their name, purpose of stay, and intended locations in Japan. Immigration authorities will review this information to determine entry eligibility, with those suspected of planning to overstay their visas potentially denied boarding. The system aims to reduce airport congestion by eliminating the need for most foreign tourists to undergo face-to-face immigration checks, a practice deemed uncommon globally.
Fee Increases and Rationale
The amendment to the immigration control law also proposes a substantial increase in residence application fees, raising the upper limit for visa applications and renewals from 10,000 yen (approximately S$80) to 300,000 yen. This marks the first fee increase since 1982. The government justifies this increase by stating that the current fees are significantly lower than those in Western countries and that the new fees will help cover the costs associated with the JESTA system and improve consultation services for foreign residents.
Criticism and Opposition
Critics of the proposed changes argue that the increased fees may deter potential immigrants and could disproportionately affect lower-income individuals seeking residency in Japan. Additionally, concerns have been raised about the potential for the JESTA system to inadvertently exclude legitimate travelers due to its reliance on online data and the risk of misinterpretation by immigration authorities.
Official Statements
The Immigration Services Agency has stated that the JESTA system is designed to enhance security by preventing illegal employment and terrorism. Officials emphasize that the move to online pre-screening is a necessary step to manage the increasing volume of tourists while maintaining safety and efficiency at airports.
What's Next
The Bill to amend the immigration control law will be submitted during the current session of the Diet. If passed, the government plans to implement the JESTA system by fiscal 2028, with specific fee amounts to be determined by government ordinance in anticipation of future inflation.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The introduction of JESTA aims to prevent terrorism and illegal employment, according to the Immigration Services Agency.” — Immigration Services Agency
- “Officials say removing in-person immigration checks to ease airport congestion would be an uncommon practice globally.” — Immigration Services Agency
This proposed overhaul of Japan's immigration system reflects the government's efforts to adapt to changing tourism dynamics while addressing security concerns and operational efficiency.
