Japan takes cue from US to increase vetting of visas to combat illegal immigration

Human Events ^ | 25 May 2025 | Victor David Hanson

[Vigilanteman]

Japan has announced plans to roll out a stricter online screening system for foreign visitors in an effort to eliminate illegal immigration entirely. The system, modeled after the US Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), will be operational by fiscal year 2028, according to Justice Minister Keisuke Suzuki.

At a news conference last week, Suzuki said “strong measures” were necessary to address increasing concerns over poor behavior by some foreign visitors. The new electronic screening system will apply to citizens from 71 countries currently exempt from visa requirements for short-term visits.

. . .

The Asahi Shimbun reported that Japan’s planned system includes seven key policy objectives aimed at keeping foreign nationals with criminal histories out of the country. It will also streamline the deportation process for those denied refugee status. By the end of 2024, 2,122 foreign nationals had received final deportation orders. The government hopes to significantly reduce this number by the end of fiscal year 2030.

[Vigilanteman]

Just got back from a month long visit to Japan last month. It is nice, clean and safe but too many foreign tourists now that it isyabanjin, crowding places, flocking the elevators intended for elderly, disabled or people with stollers and luggage. Especially those from China.

But 2,122 awaiting deportation is a rather nice problem to have since Japan exercises a little care on who they let in.

[roadcat]

Especially those from China.

They need to cut way back on Chinese tourists to Japan. They're so rude, with disgusting manners. Seems to be a worldwide thing about communist Chinese tourists. Contrast them with the neat and clean Japanese.

[Veto!]

I traveled a lot, always sorry I missed Japan.

Glad you had a month there even with too many foreigners. You must have seen a lot of the country.

[Gay State Conservative]

Everywhere they go Chinese tourists are disliked. Today the trick for East Asian tourists is to claim to either be Taiwanese or Korean.

[Gay State Conservative]

See Post #4

[Vigilanteman]

If you lived under that system, you'd probably turn into a yabanjin (barbarian) as well.

[Vigilanteman]

Bought a train pass and went from Sapporo (where I actually ate Sapporo ramen) to Kyushu on the southern end. Just four prefectures left to visit on my next trip: Oita, Miyazaki, Kochi and Okinawa. Then I can check off all 47.

[redshawk]

Did you get to the Sapporo Ice Festival?
Are you going to walk up Mt. Fuji to see the sun rise?
What about Kyoto and the old castles?
Stay safe and have fun.