Japan has a tourism problem.Image: keystone
February 27, 2026, 2:30 p.mFebruary 27, 2026, 2:30 p.m
Switzerland is with 73 other countries on the list of visa-exempt countries for Japan. For stays that last less than 90 days, Swiss citizens only need their passport. Now the Danish news website reports The publicthat the Japanese government wants to introduce a new entry form by 2028.
This also has an impact on Swiss tourists. From April 2028, only those who have filled out a JESTA in advance will be able to enter the country. Anyone who has not completed this “Electronic System for Travel Authorization” will not even be allowed on board a plane to Japan.
Similar to the ESTA for the USA, travelers must provide information online such as passport number, length of stay and purpose. An additional fee is due, reports the news platform. The Japanese government wants to intercept unwanted tourists before they enter the country. Japan should also be able to better plan how many travelers to expect.
The island state is currently struggling with increased demand. In 2024, almost 37 million tourists traveled to Japan. Demand for trips to the Asian country is also increasing in Switzerland. As the Japanese embassy in Switzerland reportsthere are currently a lot of visa requests. Long waiting times are to be expected and only people who have previously booked an appointment will be served. However, a visa is only necessary for longer stays or business trips.
Nevertheless: If you are planning a trip after April 2028, you should definitely find out about JESTA before departure. (leo)