Soon, entering Japan will require a new digital step. The JESTA (Japanese Electronic System for Travel Authorization) is not a traditional visa, but a mandatory electronic authorization for travelers from 71 visa-exempt countries — including Brazil, the USA, and nations in Europe.
Inspired by the American ESTA and the European ETIAS, the system emerges as a response to overtourism that puts pressure on places like Mount Fuji and the historical neighborhoods of Kyoto. In 2024, Japan received 36.9 million tourists, and issues such as the invasion of private properties in Gion (to photograph geishas) and environmental degradation accelerated the creation of this "smart filter."
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What Is JESTA and Why Did Japan Create It?
The JESTA is a pre-screening system that analyzes traveler data before boarding. Its objective? To identify risks of illegal immigration or tourism overload. Unlike a visa, its approval is quick (within 72 hours) and electronically linked to the port.
Why now? The Japanese value omotenashi (hospitality), but recent events have forced a rebalancing:
- At Ginzan Onsen, century-old hot springs have restricted access to non-guests after 8 PM due to noisy tourists;
- In 2024, 15% of the irregular stays in the country came from visa-exempt travelers;
- The government seeks to protect heritage sites like Kiyomizu-dera, where visitors eat in sacred areas;
Step by Step: JESTA in Practice
When required, you will need to follow these steps:
- Online filling: A digital form will collect personal data, itinerary and address in Japan 5.
- Automated analysis: Systems crossed their information with global security databases.
- Result: If approved, you will receive an e-confirm; if denied, you will need to apply for a consular visa.
Tourists from countries outside this list (e.g., China, India) will still need a physical visa. The validity will be 90 days per entry, for tourism, business, or transit purposes — never for work.
Privacy vs. Security
The JESTA requires sensitive details: travel history, s in Japan, and even social media. The government assures that the information will be anonymized and encrypted, but NGOs like the Electronic Frontier Foundation warn: "Such systems create juicy databases for hackers."
And there is another risk: algorithmic bias. In 2024, tests with similar systems in Europe denied 40% more authorizations for citizens of African and Middle Eastern countries. Will JESTA repeat this pattern?
Preparing for the JESTA Era
While the system undergoes testing in 2025, you can get ahead:
- ✅ Check your port: It must be electronic and issued after 2011;
- ✅ Document your trip: Have updated hotel reservations and round-trip tickets;
- ✅ Monitor official sources: Sites of [Japanese Immigration] and consulates will have updates.
And the most important thing: study Japanese etiquette. In Kyoto, there are already signs in Portuguese saying: "Do not photograph geishas without permission." : JESTA is not just a procedure — it is a pact of mutual respect.
