Japan expands JAPAN eVISA to additional nationalities
What changed
Japan has given more foreign people access to its JAPAN eVISA system. Eligible people living in more countries and regions can now apply online for a short-term tourist visa. As of 15 May 2026, the system works for eligible people living in Australia, Brazil, Cambodia, Canada, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Taiwan, the United Kingdom, and the United States. It also works for eligible people living in China, the Philippines, Viet Nam, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Macau, Mongolia, South Korea, Singapore, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Different application rules apply to these last countries. The electronic visa (eVISA) is currently for single-entry tourism trips that last up to 90 days. It does not cover work, study, family visits, or other long-term reasons to travel.
The detail
Policy history
Japan expands JAPAN eVISA to additional nationalitiesRelated changes
JapanFeesPublishedEffective 1 Oct 2026 Japan Introduces Residence Permit Fee Reductions and Exemptions from October 2026
What changed
Starting from 1 October 2026, the Immigration Services Agency in Japan will put new rules into practice for reducing or exempting residence permit fees. These changes, introduced through an amendment to the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act, apply to fees for changing your residence status, extending your period of stay, and getting permanent residence. The aim of these measures is to help people who are struggling financially, as well as those with diplomatic or official statuses, and certain 'Designated Activities' residents.
Published 28 Aug 2026Effective 1 Oct 2026Immigration Services Agency — Press releases
JapanPermanent ResidencePublishedEffective 1 Oct 2026 Permanent Residence Review to Become Stricter; Financial Requirements Tightened in Japan
What changed
Japan is tightening the permanent residence (PR) review process for foreign residents. The Immigration Services Agency published a revised PR guideline on 24 February 2026 and has since proposed further changes. The proposed changes would make financial stability and compliance with public obligations more explicit and would introduce clearer income-related standards. The new framework is expected to take effect from 1 October 2026, subject to finalisation.
Published 24 Feb 2026Effective 1 Oct 2026Immigration Services Agency of Japan
South AfricaeVisaAnnouncementEffective 12 Aug 2026 South Africa Expands Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) and Trusted Employer Scheme, Announces Digital ID and Home Affairs @ Home Reforms
What changed
The South African Department of Home Affairs is making major digital changes. They are expanding the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system. It will cover more than just tourist visas, such as study visas. They are also expanding the Trusted Employer Scheme to include important parts of the economy. These changes aim to make services digital, reduce complex rules (red tape), and make things work better for South African citizens and people travelling to or investing in the country. The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system has been tested in four countries. It will become the main part of a full digital immigration system.
Published 12 Aug 2026Effective 12 Aug 2026Department of Home Affairs — Statements and speeches
IndiaeVisaAnnouncementEffective 9 Jul 2026 India expands e-Visa eligibility and adjusts fee bands
What changed
India has updated its official rules for e-Visa eligibility and fees. The government's fee tables, from 9 July 2026, set specific fees for the e-Tourist Visa. These fees vary by country and by the visa's length: 30 days, one year, or five years. For the 30-day visa, the fee also depends on the travel period. The current e-Visa system covers: e-Tourist Visa; e-Business Visa; e-Medical Visa; e-Medical Attendant Visa; e-Conference Visa.
Published 9 Jul 2026Effective 9 Jul 2026Deutsche Welle
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