🇯🇵 JapaneVisaEffective 15 May 2026

Japan expands JAPAN eVISA to additional nationalities

What changed

Japan added more countries to its JAPAN eVISA system. This system allows people from these countries to apply online for a single-entry tourist visa. They no longer need to go to a Japanese consulate or embassy for an appointment.

Published 15 May 2026Effective 15 May 2026Source Ministry of Justice — Press releases

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The detail

Policy history

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Related changes

South AfricaeVisaEffective 12 Aug 2026

South Africa Expands Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) and Trusted Employer Scheme, Announces Digital ID and Home Affairs @ Home Reforms

What changed

South Africa's Department of Home Affairs is making big changes under 'Home Affairs @ home'. It is moving immigration and citizen services online. The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is now active for short-stay visitors from China, India, Indonesia, and Mexico. Before, the ETA was only a plan. The Department plans to add other visa types, like study visas, by the end of 2026. This system has handled over 203,000 applications. It has also found fraud. The Trusted Employer Scheme now includes major infrastructure projects, companies setting up headquarters, and financial services. Applications for this scheme are due by 4 September. Visitors already in South Africa can now apply online for a 90-day visa extension using the ETA. This replaces an old paper system. More South Africans can now get Smart ID Cards. Services are available at over 500 bank branches, with a goal of 750 by the end of the year. Passport applications and first-time Smart ID applications will also move to bank branches later.

Published 12 Aug 2026Effective 12 Aug 2026Department of Home Affairs — Statements and speeches

JapanWork PermitsEffective 23 Jan 2026

Japan expands Specified Skilled Worker sectors

What changed

Japan has approved adding more industrial sectors to the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) programme. It has also raised the total number of people allowed into the programme over several years.

Published 23 Jan 2026Effective 23 Jan 2026Associated Press