Japan to Revamp Visa-Free Policy: What You Need to Know
Japan is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant cities, making it a top destination for travellers worldwide. To maintain the integrity of its visa-free travel policy, the Japanese government has announced plans to introduce a new travel authorisation system aimed at curbing the issue of visa overstaying.
New Travel Authorisation System
Under the proposed system, visitors from 71 countries, including the US, UK, and Australia—who are currently exempt from requiring a visa—will need to share personal information online before entering Japan. This information will include the purpose of their visit and details of their accommodation during their stay.
This new requirement is a significant change from the current policy, where visitors from these countries can enter Japan without needing to provide such detailed information in advance.
Why the Change?
Japan has experienced a substantial rise in tourism, welcoming nearly 18 million visitors in the first half of 2024 alone. However, with this surge in visitors, there has also been an increase in the number of illegal overstayers among visa-exempt travellers. In January 2016, nearly 50,000 illegal overstayers were recorded, with about 60% coming from visa-exempt countries.
The new travel authorisation system is designed to address this issue by screening visitors more effectively before they arrive in Japan. If an online application is flagged as a potential illegal-stay risk, the travel authorisation will be denied, and the applicant will need to reapply through their local embassy.
Impact on Travellers
For most travellers, this new system will likely be a minor inconvenience, requiring them to plan their trip more carefully and ensure that their travel authorisation is completed and approved before departure. Japan’s visa-exempt duration varies by country, ranging from two weeks to 90 days, so it’s essential for travellers to be aware of the specific rules that apply to their nationality.
For those planning to visit Japan, this change underscores the importance of adhering to the country’s entry requirements and respecting the terms of their stay.
Planning Your Future Trip to Japan
While these new measures may add an extra step to the travel process, Japan remains an incredible destination with much to offer. If you’re planning a trip to Japan and need assistance navigating the new travel authorisation system, or if you want to make the most of your visit with a custom itinerary, contact us at Links Travel and Tours. We’re here to help ensure your trip to Japan is seamless and unforgettable. Reach out to us at info@linkstravelandtours.co.uk to start planning your Japan adventure today.