Japan Trusted Traveler Program

Introduction to the Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) in Japan

Japan’s Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) represents a collaborative effort to streamline the immigration process for frequent and trusted travelers entering the country. By utilizing modern technology and rigorous checks, the program aims to offer a more efficient and expedited entry procedure for qualifying individuals.

The TTP is designed to serve various categories of travelers, such as business professionals, tourists, long-term residents, and others who have demonstrated compliance with Japanese laws and regulations. Through a two-step examination process, both prior to and after arrival in Japan, applicants can gain access to automated gates at major airports and other entry points, simplifying their entrance into the country.

The program underscores Japan’s commitment to providing a seamless travel experience while maintaining robust security measures. The subsequent sections outline the specific procedures for registering as a candidate for the TTP, detailing the requirements and steps necessary for both preliminary and secondary examinations.

Core concept and benefits of the Trusted Traveler Program in Japan

What is the Trusted Traveler Program (TTP)?

The Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) in Japan is designed for visitors, from overseas including business people, tourists, and their families, coming for short stays. Those who qualify are given a “Registered User Card” by the Immigration Services Agency, allowing them to use automated gates at major airports like Narita, Haneda, and Kansai. This card simplifies entry and exit by bypassing face-to-face inspections with immigration officers.

TTP is tailored for individuals who have traveled to Japan more than twice in the past year.

Requirements for Registration

General Requirements for TTP Registration

To be eligible for Japan’s Trusted Traveler Program (TTP), applicants must fulfill specific requirements corresponding to one of five categories, labeled from (A) to (E), and must meet common conditions outlined in part (2).

A. Based on the U.S.-Japan Initiative (Category A – JTTP)

• U.S. citizens applying for TTP must be part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Global Entry Program (GEP).
• These applicants are exempt from other requirements listed under (2)(E).

B. Business Persons (Category B and C)

• Category B (Institutional Affiliation): Applicants who hold specific positions in recognized public or private institutions in Japan or other specified countries.
• Invitation from Japanese Institutions (Category C): Individuals with professional relationships with certain Japanese institutions or companies, requiring repeated visits to Japan for work.

C. Tourists (Category D – Adequate Creditworthiness)

• Applicants must have a Platinum-rank credit card or higher, affiliated with recognized international brands such as VISA, Mastercard, American Express, Diners Club, Discover, JCB, or UnionPay.

D. Family Members of Business Persons or Tourists (Category E)

• This category includes spouses or unmarried minors of individuals who meet criteria B or C.
• These family members must have received a specific Registered User Card, reflecting the eligibility of the related business person or tourist.

Common Requirements for All Categories

Applicants must meet all of the following conditions:

• Intending to stay in Japan for a short period for business, tourism, or family visits.
• Having a specific number of entry records to Japan within the last year.
• Having no history of forced deportation from Japan or leaving due to an exit order.
• Possessing a passport that Japan recognizes for visa exemption measures.
• Having no criminal convictions that resulted in fines or greater penalties.
• Having no circumstances deemed inappropriate for fair management of entry and exit.
• Providing personal identification information through electromagnetic methods.
• Not falling under any landing denial reasons at the time of registration.

The procedures for registering as a candidate for the Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) in Japan.

The process is divided into two main parts: procedures to be completed before entering Japan (preliminary examination) and procedures to be completed after entering Japan (secondary examination).

1. Before Entering Japan (Preliminary Examination):
   • Those who wish to use the TTP must enter the required information into a designated online system and apply to the Immigration Services Agency (ISA) along with the required documents.
   • The ISA will then review whether the candidate meets the requirements for registration and notify them via email regarding the continuation of the examination.
   • It is also possible to apply directly at a designated registration location in a Japanese airport. However, internet access is needed to use the specific information system, and applicants must appear at the designated registration location twice for the secondary examination.
2. After Entering Japan (Secondary Examination):
   • If the preliminary examination is passed, the applicant must first undergo normal immigration inspection at a Japanese airport.
   • After this, they must appear at a designated registration location in the airport and provide personal identification information (fingerprints and facial photograph) to the ISA, along with the original documents previously submitted online.
   • If the ISA judges that registration is appropriate, they will register the applicant for automated gate use and issue a “Specific Registrant Card.”

Other points

• TTP is a relatively new program, having been launched in 2019.
• It is open to both foreign nationals and Japanese citizens who meet the eligibility requirements.
• The application process is fairly straightforward and can be completed online.
• Once approved, TTP members can use a dedicated automated immigration clearance lane at designated airports, which can help to reduce wait times.
• TTP members are also eligible for expedited processing at other immigration checkpoints in Japan.

Conclusion: Understanding the Significance of Japan’s Trusted Traveler Program (TTP)

Japan’s Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) is a way for frequent visitors to Japan to get through immigration more quickly and easily. The program uses modern technology and a careful vetting process to ensure that only low-risk travelers are eligible.

The TTP is open to a variety of traveler categories, including business professionals, tourists, and their families. This makes Japan a more welcoming destination for people who travel to the country often.

The TTP is an important part of Japan’s commitment to security and safety. By using modern technology and a careful vetting process, the program helps to ensure that only legitimate travelers enter the country.