For years, Australians have enjoyed hassle-free entry into Japan, with no need for visas or lengthy paperwork. But that’s about to change.

Japan’s government has announced the introduction of the Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (JESTA), which will require travellers from visa-exempt countries, including Australia, to submit personal information online before arrival.

This additional step, much like the United States’ ESTA system, will add a new layer to the travel process as JESTA gradually rolls out, becoming fully operational by 2030.

While these changes are unlikely to dampen Australia’s enthusiasm for Japan, they do raise questions about how the travel industry will adapt.

Intrepid Travel, a leading Australian tour operator with more than 20 itineraries across Japan, weighs in on the potential impact of JESTA on travellers, with its managing director for Australia and New Zealand, Brett Mitchell, suggesting Japan’s move to this new system won’t be an isolated case and that other countries will most likely implement similar systems in the future.

“The system is designed to reduce illegal immigration — making travel safer for everyone — while also giving Japan the chance to use the data to improve tourism infrastructure and planning,” he says.

Although JESTA will introduce an extra step for travellers, Brett believes the process will be user-friendly and will ultimately enhance the travel experience.

While travellers will likely need to provide more detailed information, Brett says it won’t be much more than what’s already submitted through airlines or immigration forms.

“Most of the additional information will probably relate to travel plans, like where you’re staying or which attractions you plan to visit,” he explains.

Brett also sees this data as beneficial, as it will allow Japan to better tailor its tourism infrastructure to visitor needs.

It’s the right step for Japan, and it will hopefully improve the overall experience for all travellers

When asked if the new entry requirements will significantly impact Australian travellers, Brett says he’s fairly confident they won’t.

“There may be a small fee involved, similar to the ESTA in the United States, but I don’t think it will be prohibitive,” he says.

“Although the exact cost hasn’t been announced, I expect it to be around $20 or $30.

“Plus, I would imagine the turnaround time on these sort of online approvals will take anywhere from 24 to 48 hours, so I don’t think it will have a big impact on Australians at all.

“Ultimately, I think it will benefit both the country and its visitors. It’s the right step for Japan, and it will hopefully improve the overall experience for all travellers.”