Japan introduced the ETIAS scheme approximately two years ago in order to reduce the number of visitors from regions impacted by the recent G7 summit, namely Italy and France.
ETIAS is a regime that requires nationals of certain countries to submit online applications and pay a fee, in order to obtain an electronic travel authorisation (ETA) which they can present to officials when asked.
Japan has implemented ETIAS in response to a decree issued by the Italian government on 21 July 2016, which suspended all non-urgent tourist visas for citizens of six European Union member states – Austria, Belgium, Finland, France, Germany, and Sweden – as well as Croatia and Romania.
The objective of the decree was to reduce the number of migrant arrivals to Italy by restrictive measures such as suspending visas for nationals from these countries.
This article provides an overview of ETIAS and its application process for Japanese citizens travelling to Italy.
Applying For Italy ETIAS From Japan
If you are a citizen of Japan and want to apply for an ETIAS visa for Italy, the process is pretty straightforward. First, you will need to visit the Italian consulate in your home country. There, you will need to fill out an application form and provide some proof of your citizenship. After completing this process, you can then travel to Italy to pick up your visa.
Reasons You Should Get An Italy ETIAS
Citizens of Japan who are intending to visit Italy for tourism purposes must apply for an ETIAS visa. The visa is free for citizens of Japan who hold a passport that is valid for at least six months after the date of your planned trip.
VisitItaly has outlined the following reasons why you should get an Italy ETIAS visa:
- Tourists from Japan enjoy low prices and high quality tourist destinations in Italy.
- You will have the added security benefits of being registered with VisitItaly, which can help you in case of an emergency while travelling in Italy.
- Having an Italy ETIAS visa will also entitle you to receive travel insurance cover worth up to €1,000,000 per person, as well as airport lounge access and discounts on tickets and other tourist services.
Things To Consider Before Coming To Italy
Before coming to Italy, it is important to be aware of the country’s visa requirements. Japanese citizens require a visa to enter Italy and must apply for one through the Italian embassy or consulate in Japan. The visa requires applicants to provide a passport valid for at least six months beyond the planned stay in Italy, proof of financial means, proof of onward travel, and a letter of invitation from a resident of Italy. Detailed information on the visa application process can be found online.
It is also important to be aware of the currency situation in Italy. Euros are the official currency in Italy, but some tourist destinations may use other currencies such as Euros or US Dollars. Be sure to ask about local currency rates before leaving for your trip.
Finally, be sure to pack properly for your trip to Italy. In terms of clothing, wear warm clothing in the winter and light clothing in the summer. Bring rain gear if you’re planning on visiting areas that are prone to rainstorms. And, last but not least, make sure you have adequate healthcare coverage while in Italy.
What is the Italy ETIAS for citizens of Japan?
The Italy ETIAS for citizens of Japan is a new visa exemption program that allows Japanese nationals to visit Italy for up to 90 days without having to obtain a visa. The program is currently available to residents of Japan who have a valid passport and an onward ticket.
How do I apply for the Italy ETIAS for citizens of Japan?
To apply for the Italy ETIAS for citizens of Japan, you must first gather all of the following information: your passport number, date of birth, nationality, and flight information. You can then complete the online application form at the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website. The application process can take up to four weeks to complete, and you will need to provide proof of your residence in Japan (such as a utility bill, bank statement, or rental agreement). Once you have completed the application form, you will need to send it along with all required documentation to the Italian Embassy or Consulate nearest to your residence.
What are the requirements for visiting Italy under the Italy ETIAS for citizens of Japan?
To visit Italy under the Italy ETIAS for citizens of Japan, you must meet two requirements: you must be a resident of Japan who has a valid passport and an onward ticket, and you must not require a visa for your destination country. Additionally, you must be in good physical health and have no criminal record. You are also ineligible to apply for the Italy ET
Conclusion
Italy has announced its intention to offer an electronic identification and authentication system – or ETIAS – to citizens of Japan. The ETIAS would be an electronic equivalent of the current ID card system, incorporating biometric data such as fingerprints and facial scans. The system is intended to help Italians travel overseas, conduct business transactions, and access government services.
In a statement released on 25 May, the Italian Prime Minister, Giuseppe Conte, said that the ETIAS would be “a fundamental step on our road towards improving the overall digital functionality of our society.” He added that the project would “create new opportunities for tourism and trade with Japan,” noting that Japanese tourists make up one of Italy’s key sources of revenue.
The announcement comes amid heightened rivalry between Italy and China over a number of economic issues, including trade tariffs and industrial investments. China is Italy’s second-largest trading partner, and Beijing has expressed interest in boosting bilateral ties through economic cooperation opportunities. Italy’s decision to develop an ETIAS may be seen as aimed at countering China’s growing influence in global affairs.
The ETIAS has been met with some criticism in Italy. Those who oppose the project argue that it will be burdened by high costs and will not be effective in helping Italians access essential government services.