According to the Sankei Shimbun article “Preliminary screening for visa-free visitors to Japan to prevent illegal overstaying, survey costs to be included in supplementary budget bill” (November 25, 2024), the system is tentatively named the Japanese version of ESTA (JESTA), based on the electronic travel authorization system “ESTA” introduced by the United States for counter-terrorism purposes.
What is ESTA? (AI teacher’s explanation)
The background, purpose, and effects of the introduction of ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) are detailed below.
1.Background
ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) is an electronic travel authorization system introduced by the United States in 2008, and is mainly used to manage travelers from countries eligible for the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). . The reason behind its introduction is the increased awareness of national security after the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, and the need to obtain traveler information in advance.
The United States has traditionally allowed free travel to and from many countries through the Visa Waiver Program, but as the threat of terrorism increases, there is an urgent need to strengthen immigration security. In particular, a system was required to collect and analyze detailed information on travelers in advance and prevent potential threats.
ESTA was designed as a system for travelers from VWP countries to apply for simple information online before entering the United States. This allows us to maintain the basic framework of visa exemption while improving risk management when entering the United States.
2.Purpose
The main purposes of ESTA are:
(1) Strengthening national security
In order to prevent terrorism and crime, they collect and analyze traveler information in advance to identify potential risks at an early stage. This greatly reduces the possibility of dangerous individuals entering the United States.
(2) Improving the efficiency of immigration procedures
Previously, travelers from countries eligible for the VWP were required to undergo additional screening at immigration inspections at airports and ports, but with the introduction of ESTA, the screening can now be carried out quickly and smoothly by using information submitted in advance. This reduces congestion at U.S. airports and provides a less stressful experience for travelers.
(3) Maintaining international relations
The Visa Waiver Program is built on trust between the United States and target countries, providing economic benefits to both parties through tourism and business. ESTA serves to maintain and strengthen these relationships while maintaining a balance between security and convenience.
(4) Digitization of traveler information
Compared to traditional paper-based immigration procedures, the introduction of ESTA digitizes traveler information, making it easier to store and analyze data. This data is also used to share information with other countries and to plan further security measures.
3.Effects
Many practical effects have been confirmed with the introduction of ESTA.
(1) Improved security
ESTA requires travelers to declare their passport information and planned stay online in advance. This information is reviewed by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and travelers deemed to be a potential risk will not be granted permission to travel. This system effectively reduces the risk of terrorists and criminals entering the United States.
(2) Improving convenience for travelers
The procedure is easier than obtaining a visa, and the application can be completed online in just a few minutes. Additionally, your ESTA permit is valid for two years, and you can travel multiple times during that time. This convenience is a huge benefit for tourists and business travelers.
(3) Economic effect
With the introduction of ESTA, the United States can continue to welcome tourists and business travelers, minimizing the impact on the tourism industry and related economic sectors. Even with stricter immigration controls, travelers from VWP countries can easily enter the country, contributing to tourism income and the promotion of international business.
(4) Promoting information utilization
Data collected through ESTA is also useful in the fields of criminal investigation and international counterterrorism. Digitization of traveler information has facilitated coordination with various systems, enabling efficient security management. Similar systems have also been introduced in other countries and are functioning as part of international cooperation.
(5) Flexibility of immigration control
ESTA has been hailed as a flexible solution that enhances security while maintaining the framework of the Visa Waiver Program. This has made it possible for the United States to continue free international exchange while maintaining security.
4.Challenges and future prospects
On the other hand, some issues have been pointed out with ESTA. For example, increased reliance on systems raises concerns about cybersecurity vulnerabilities. Additionally, some travelers may find it difficult to apply online, and efforts need to be made to reduce these barriers.
In the future, it is expected that risk assessments will become even more sophisticated using AI and big data analysis, and that information sharing with other countries will be strengthened. Additionally, as part of a global travel management system, the success story of ESTA may spread to other countries.
As mentioned above, ESTA functions as an important tool for balancing national security and promoting international exchange, and can be said to be a model case for modern immigration control.
The true purpose of introducing JESTA
I think this is a particular measure against the Kurds. As mentioned in this blog article, the problem of a large number of Iranians coming to Japan and working approximately 20 years ago was resolved by freezing visa exemption measures for short-term stays.
The Kurds who are currently being talked about have Turkish nationality. Turkey cannot be exempted from visa exemption (or frozen) for the sake of the Kurdish minority.
For this reason, it is effective to examine through a preliminary screening before leaving the country. (Also mentioned in this article.)
Postscript
Not all Kurdish people abuse the refugee recognition system.
However, loopholes in the system and lax enforcement can result in illegal entry and illegal overstay. In addition, this can become a source of family separation. (ex; a foreign national who is illegally overstayed in Japan may give birth to a child in Japan, and only one to be deported and the other to be stayed in Japan).
Appropriate border checks can help prevent future tragedies.