Japan has always been a popular destination for many Malaysians, with its unique blend of ancient traditions and modern wonders. However, as Japan updates its tourism policies, Malaysians planning a trip to the Land of the Rising Sun will now need to obtain prior approval to enter the country.
Understanding the new ruling
Malaysia will soon join 71 other countries whose citizens will need to secure authorisation before entering Japan as part of the Japanese government’s new tourism plan. This change will affect travellers from countries like Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, South Korea, Britain, the United States, and Australia, who are currently exempt from visa requirements.
The new system will require visitors to declare their personal information online before their trip, adding an extra step in the travel planning process but promising a more streamlined and secure entry into Japan.
This new travel authorisation system, expected to be implemented by 2030, mirrors the U.S. Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA), introduced initially as an anti-terrorism measure. The Japanese government is already setting aside funds for the system in next year’s budget, which indicates its commitment to enhancing the safety and efficiency of its tourism sector.
How it works
Japan’s new travel authorisation system will require visa-exempt foreign nationals to declare their purpose of visit and accommodation details online before travelling, with Japan’s Immigration Services Agency conducting a pre-screening to ensure eligibility. If an application is flagged as a potential illegal-stay risk, the authorisation will be denied, and the traveller will be advised to obtain a formal visa through their local embassy.
This system, introduced to reduce illegal immigration from visa-exempt countries where stays range from 14 to 90 days, aims to combat unauthorised entry by ensuring only approved travellers board flights to Japan. Thus, addressing current challenges where individuals who fail post-takeoff screening can still enter the country.
