Japan plans to introduce a pre-screening system for visa-free visitors in the 2028 fiscal year, charging a fee between 2,000 and 3,000 yen (HK$96 to HK$146), according to a Kyodo news agency report citing government sources.
The Japan Electronic Short-Term Travel Authorization system would require travelers from countries eligible for short-term visa-free stays to answer questions online about their purpose of visit before departure. The move aims to prevent terrorism and illegal employment.
A bill to amend the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act is set to be submitted to next year's regular Diet session. The system is modeled on similar ones in the United States and Canada, which charge between about 1,000 and 6,000 yen.
With annual visitors expected to exceed 40 million for the first time this year, the fee could generate significant revenue. One proposed use within the government is to fund emergency responses for foreign visitors during disasters.
