Japan to Revamp Entry Rules for Tourists: What's Changing

As visitor numbers to Japan soar, so do the headaches. But despite a target of 60 million tourists a year by 2030, authorities aren’t afraid of adding a few hoops. The government’s betting visitors will come anyway.

Japan has outlined plans which will require all incoming tourists to have private health insurance. The move aims to curb a growing problem: foreign visitors receiving medical treatment and leaving the country without paying.

The proposed rules, expected to be included in the government’s next economic policy package, are part of a broader overhaul of how Japan manages foreign tourists.

The health ministry says the goal is to ensure that all visitors can cover unexpected medical expenses, similar to existing rules in places like the Schengen area, the UAE, Turkey, Morocco and Jordan.

What Does This Entail?

Officials have said the new immigration and residency rules could eventually tie visa renewals to proof of insurance and tax compliance. Defaulters may also be barred from re-entry.

Under the proposed system:

Tourists without proof of insurance may be denied entry. Immigration officers could access a li