Tokyo, April 21, 2025 — In a significant step toward modernizing its border entry process, Japan has officially launched a digital arrival card system for foreign visitors, replacing the traditional paper-based forms that have been in use for decades.
The new initiative, set to go into effect on May 1, 2025, will allow travelers to fill out immigration and customs information online prior to their arrival, significantly reducing processing times at airports and seaports across the country.
“This is part of Japan’s commitment to improving the travel experience through digital innovation,” said Hiroshi Tanaka, Director of Japan Immigration Services Agency. “It will also help streamline passenger flow at busy airports such as Narita, Haneda, and Kansai.”
📲 How It Works
Travelers entering Japan for tourism, business, or short-term visits can now access the Visit Japan Web platform, where they can:
- Submit immigration and customs information
- Upload passport and visa details
- Receive a digital QR code to present upon arrival
The QR code will be scanned at automated kiosks, allowing quicker clearance at immigration checkpoints.
“We want visitors to experience Japan the moment they land, not spend extra time in line filling out forms,” added Tanaka.
🛬 Benefits for Travelers
The digital entry system is expected to cut immigration processing times by 30%, especially during peak tourist seasons. Travelers will also receive real-time updates about travel requirements and can amend their data if needed before arrival.
The service is currently available in English, Chinese, Korean, and Japanese, with plans to expand language support in the future.
🛂 Who Needs It?
The system is voluntary during the rollout phase, but highly encouraged for:
- Short-term tourists
- Business travelers
- Citizens of visa-free countries
Long-term visa holders and returning residents will still be required to complete certain additional documents manually until full integration is achieved.
✈️ Airlines & Airports Prepare for Rollout
Airlines flying into Japan are now informing passengers about the change. Many carriers, including ANA and Japan Airlines, have already added Visit Japan Web links to their check-in pages and mobile apps.
At Narita International Airport, new kiosks have been installed to support QR code scanning and digital entry verification.
“We’re working closely with airport authorities to ensure a smooth transition,” said a representative from Japan Airlines. “The goal is a seamless experience from flight to final destination.”
🗣️ Reactions from Travelers
Early feedback from travelers who tested the system during Japan’s trial phase has been overwhelmingly positive.
“I uploaded everything before my flight, scanned my code at immigration, and I was out in minutes,” said Clara Nguyen, a tourist from Australia.
“This is a game-changer. It feels like arriving in the future,” added Alex Kim, a business traveler from South Korea.
🧳 What You Need to Do Before Traveling to Japan
- Visit https://realtimetripnews.com/ latest news
- Create an account and input your arrival details
- Upload your passport and travel documents
- Save the QR code to your phone or print it
- Show the QR code on arrival in Japan
As Japan prepares to welcome millions of visitors for the upcoming cherry blossom and summer festival seasons, the digital entry card is seen as a timely upgrade to enhance both efficiency and traveler satisfaction.
Travelers are encouraged to complete the process at least 48 hours before their scheduled arrival.