Snapshots
Interest in and searches for Japan from India have skyrocketed recently, making the country an obvious preference among Indian tourists. Planning Japan travel in in 2026? An essential update, nevertheless, should be considered if a visit is in your near future. Several fees associated with travelling to Japan will be revised, according to the Japanese government.
Airport departure taxes and visa costs have both increased, and a new fee for pre-entry screening has also been introduced. This is a small step towards a larger goal of funding public programs and updating infrastructure. These changes may eventually result in a slight increase in the price that tourists pay for Japan's renowned excellent value, and they are set to take effect in the 2026 financial year!
Japan travel requirements 2026–what should we know about?
Changes to visitor taxes and visa requirements will take effect in the new year, as stated in official announcements. The price of both single-entry and multi-entry visas, as well as the departure tax, will rise as a result. Nikkei, a Japanese financial daily, reports that the funds will be used to enhance airport infrastructure and security, as well as finance national initiatives such as making high school free. The departure tax has remained constant since its introduction six years ago, while the visa costs have not changed since 1978. The actual launch date of these new fares is yet unknown, according to official releases.
Japan travel updates- what is the new ‘exit’
All nationals, including Japanese citizens, have been subject to a minor exit tax since 2019. Your aircraft or boat ticket includes this change, eliminating the need for paperwork. There have been rumours that the government is planning to raise the tax to match the “international norm,” even though it is now a small ¥1,000 (around €5.60 or £4.90). Depending on your destination, the departure charge in Germany can range from €15.53 to €70.83, while in Mexico, it is approximately $68 (equivalent to €58). It is unclear by what margin Japan intends to raise this price, but a tenfold rise would put it in par with these countries.
Japan travel 2026 – what should I know about the visa?
Currently, first-time admission to Japan requires a one-time entrance fee of ¥3,000 (€17), while repeated admissions cost ¥6,000 (€34); however, most people from the EU, US, and UK do not need a visa. We don't know the precise amount, but this expense is expected to rise. In contrast, short-term visas from other countries are significantly more expensive. To give you an idea of Japan's new fees, consider that the UK's short-stay visa currently costs £127 (€145.60), while other Schengen countries charge a flat fee of €90. Japan will introduce the Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorisation, often known as JESTA, in the fiscal year 2028. This new procedure will now require travellers from visa-exempt countries to undergo pre-arrival screening. This service will incur a fee, which is expected to be approximately $40 (or S$51.90) higher than the US version. Before visiting Japan, travellers from visa-exempt countries, including the US, UK, and Australia, must register online by providing their passport and travel information. A minor processing fee, perhaps about ¥6,000, is planned to be charged by the government.
Japan travel updates – when do they come into effect?
The Japanese government anticipates that the new tax system will be implemented in the 2026 fiscal year. The modifications are expected to be implemented in stages, allowing time for administrative adjustments and effective public communication; however, specific dates are still pending confirmation. Details, including the updated amounts and implementation schedule, will be disclosed closer to the launch, as emphasised by officials. Tourists planning their trips for 2025 are currently unaffected, but those targeting 2026 or later should stay tuned for updates from Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Finance.
Japan is open to tourists- but with new conditions!
It is long overdue for an increase in these fees, which have not been raised in decades. Furthermore, Japan has been struggling with overtourism, and we will announce the implementation schedule as the launch date approaches. Officials have emphasised the essential funds required to address the infrastructural strain that tourists cause. The administration claims that these measures will improve the tracking of incoming tourists and enhance the screening process at the border. Some visitors are concerned that this additional step might complicate preparations for short-term travel.