Travelling to Japan? Your immigration check will begin before you even board your flight
Japan plans to implement a new preclearance system in the upcoming fiscal year to boost security and streamline immigration processes. The system aims to prevent terrorist entry and handle the increasing congestion faced during immigration procedu...
By ET Online |
Japan's immigration authorities are set to implement a new system designed to enhance security measures and streamline immigration processes by screening foreign visitors before their departure. The preclearance system, slated for experimental adoption in the upcoming fiscal year starting in April, aims to prevent terrorists from entering the country and alleviate congestion during immigration procedures.
According to reports, under this system, airlines will furnish immigration officials with pertinent data, including passport information, of foreign travelers bound for Japan during the airport check-in process. Immigration officials will then cross-reference this information with a comprehensive database. Individuals flagged as potential terrorists, those with a history of serving prison sentences exceeding one year either in Japan or abroad, or those accused of illegal stays in Japan may face denial of entry into the country.
Upon identification of such individuals, airlines will be promptly notified, enabling them to make informed decisions regarding the boarding of these passengers onto their flights. According to agency officials, approximately 10,000 foreign visitors were denied entry to Japan annually, with those refusing to return to their home countries being subject to extradition at state expense.
With approximately 25.8 million foreigners arriving in Japan last year, representing approximately 80 percent of pre-pandemic levels, immigration procedures have witnessed increased congestion. To mitigate these challenges, Japan follows in the footsteps of nations like the United States and South Korea, which have already implemented similar preclearance systems.
According to reports, under this system, airlines will furnish immigration officials with pertinent data, including passport information, of foreign travelers bound for Japan during the airport check-in process. Immigration officials will then cross-reference this information with a comprehensive database. Individuals flagged as potential terrorists, those with a history of serving prison sentences exceeding one year either in Japan or abroad, or those accused of illegal stays in Japan may face denial of entry into the country.
Upon identification of such individuals, airlines will be promptly notified, enabling them to make informed decisions regarding the boarding of these passengers onto their flights. According to agency officials, approximately 10,000 foreign visitors were denied entry to Japan annually, with those refusing to return to their home countries being subject to extradition at state expense.
With approximately 25.8 million foreigners arriving in Japan last year, representing approximately 80 percent of pre-pandemic levels, immigration procedures have witnessed increased congestion. To mitigate these challenges, Japan follows in the footsteps of nations like the United States and South Korea, which have already implemented similar preclearance systems.
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