Japan to Pilot ETA System with Taiwan in 2025
Taiwanese travelers will be the first to test Japan’s new Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system starting January 2025, marking a shift toward pre-clearance for visa-exempt visitors and enhanced security measures.
Starting in January 2025, Japan will introduce an electronic pre-authorization system for visa-exempt visitors, beginning with travelers from Taiwan. The system, often compared to the U.S. ESTA, will require travelers to submit information online before departing for Japan. Required data will include the purpose of stay, passport details, and, in some cases, additional information such as the name of a business partner for work trips or the healthcare facility for medical stays.
The primary aim of this system is to streamline and expedite entry procedures for travelers while enhancing security. Submitted information will be vetted by Japan’s Immigration Services Agency (ISA), which reserves the right to deny entry to travelers with suspicious declarations. This process is designed to prevent illegal activities and potential threats even before travelers board their flights to Japan.
Visa and Immigration Reforms
New Visa for High-Income Earners
In parallel, the Japanese government has approved a new visa category aimed at attracting high-income individuals and graduates from top universities. Approved by the cabinet in February 2023, this initiative seeks to bolster Japan’s economic competitiveness by drawing in skilled foreign talent.
Expansion of Foreign Worker Categories
Since 2018, Japan has broadened the fields in which foreigners may work, now covering 14 occupations. New arrivals fall into two main categories: skilled workers in designated fields, who may bring family and renew contracts multiple times, and unskilled workers, permitted to stay for up to five years without the ability to bring family.
Demographic Shifts and Labor Needs
Below is a summary of Japan’s resident population trends from 2014 to 2018, with projections to 2030:
Year | Total Population (thousands) | Foreign Population (thousands) | Share of Foreigners |
|---|---|---|---|
2014 | 127,083 | 2,122 | 1.67% |
2015 | 127,095 | 2,232 | 1.76% |
2016 | 126,933 | 2,383 | 1.88% |
2017 | 125,584 | 2,323 | 1.85% |
2018 | 125,210 | 2,498 | 2.00% |
2030* | 119,125 | – | – |
*Projected by the National Institute of Population and Social Security Research (IPSS)
These figures highlight Japan’s shrinking overall population in contrast with the steady rise in the foreign population, underscoring the growing role of immigration in supporting the Japanese economy.
Nationals from 71 countries and territories—most of them in Europe—who currently enjoy visa-free entry for stays of up to 90 days will need to secure an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before departure. While the additional step may seem burdensome, it is expected to ease and accelerate entry into Japan.
