New Travel Rules for Japan in 2025: What Travelers Need to Know

Muhe - Friday, 29 August 2025 | 05:00 PM (WIB)

New Travel Rules for Japan in 2025: What Travelers Need to Know

Japan remains a favorite destination for travelers worldwide, including those from Indonesia. The Land of the Rising Sun offers a combination of traditional culture, modern technology, and natural beauty that attracts millions of tourists each year. However, as we enter 2025, there are a number of new regulations that travelers should be aware of to ensure a smoother trip. From digital immigration systems, power bank regulations, to special visas, here's a summary of important information for travelers.

1. JESTA: New Authorization System for Visa-Exempt Travelers

Japan plans to introduce the Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorization (JESTA), a pre-authorization system similar to ESTA in the United States. Travelers from visa-exempt countries will be required to register online before departing. The goal is to tighten security and expedite immigration processing at airports. Although it will only be mandatory around fiscal year 2028, this information is important to anticipate now, especially for those who frequently travel to Japan.

2. Visit Japan Web and Biometric Gates

For international travelers, Visit Japan Web (VJW) has become a very helpful tool. Through this platform, visitors can fill out immigration and customs information before departure and then receive a QR code to expedite the arrival process. VJW is also integrated with automated biometric gates at major airports like Narita, Haneda, and Kansai, eliminating long queues. While not mandatory, VJW use is highly recommended.

3. COVID-19 Regulations Officially Abolished

Starting March 2025, the Japanese government officially abolished all COVID-19 regulations. Travelers will no longer be required to show proof of vaccination, PCR test results, or undergo quarantine. This policy allows travel to Japan to return to pre-pandemic conditions, making it more convenient and free from additional requirements.

4. Digital Visa and Digital Nomad Visa

In addition to regular visitor visas, Japan has begun introducing e-Visas that can be applied for online by citizens of certain countries, including Indonesia. This simplifies the application process without having to visit an embassy.Even more interestingly, Japan is now opening opportunities for remote workers through the Digital Nomad Visa. This visa allows digital nomads to stay for up to six months, provided they have a minimum annual income of ¥10 million (approximately Rp1.1 billion) and have health insurance. This policy demonstrates Japan's commitment to attracting global talent.

5. New Power Bank Rules on Airplanes

Starting July 8, 2025, Japanese airlines such as JAL and ANA will prohibit passengers from storing power banks in overhead baggage. Power banks may only be carried in personal or carry-on bags to be monitored during the flight. This rule was issued due to the increased risk of fires from lithium batteries in the air.

6. Tightened Business Visas

For business owners, new regulations starting in October 2025 will tighten the requirements for Business and Management Visas. The minimum capital requirement was raised from ¥5 million to ¥30 million, and visa holders were required to employ at least one full-time staff member in Japan. This policy aimed to screen out truly serious foreign investors.