In recent years, immigration control and refugee recognition policies in Japan have become increasingly scrutinized. Among the most pressing issues is the situation surrounding Turkish nationals of Kurdish origin, especially those residing in areas such as Saitama Prefecture. In 2024, Saitama Governor Motohiro Ono requested the national government to temporarily suspend the short-term visa waiver for Turkish citizens, citing public safety concerns and frequent refugee applications by Turkish nationals. While some support the measure, pointing to local unease and systemic loopholes, others criticize it as lacking objective evidence and potentially discriminatory.
Simultaneously, the Japanese government plans to introduce an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) in the near future. This system, similar to those already in place in countries like the United States and South Korea, aims to screen travelers from visa-exempt countries in advance to enhance border security. This essay examines the validity of the proposed suspension of visa waivers for Turkish citizens and evaluates the anticipated effects of Japan’s version of ESTA.
1. Background and Issues with the Proposed Suspension of the Visa Waiver for Turkish Nationals
Japan currently grants short-term visa waivers to Turkish citizens, among others, as part of mutual agreements to promote tourism and economic exchange. However, in recent years, some local governments have raised concerns about the social impact of Turkish nationals, particularly Kurds, who repeatedly apply for refugee status and remain in Japan under provisional release (karihōmen) despite being denied asylum.
Governor Ono emphasized that the proposed suspension is not about exclusion but rather about requiring Turkish nationals to obtain visas, like citizens of many other countries. However, in effect, this introduces additional entry barriers targeting a specific nationality, which raises both legal and ethical concerns, especially in an international context.
The core issue lies in the reality that many of these individuals are fleeing persecution and political oppression in Turkey. However, Japan has an extremely low refugee recognition rate—only about 1.5% in 2023. Consequently, many applicants remain in limbo, unable to work or attend school while awaiting a final decision. This often results in tension between residents and foreign nationals who lack stable legal status.
Despite these tensions, suspending the visa waiver based on vague concerns such as “public unease” risks fueling xenophobia and stigmatization. Governor Ono himself admitted that there are no specific crime statistics to support the claim of increased criminal activity among Turkish nationals. Policy decisions based on subjective fear rather than objective evidence risk violating principles of equality under the law and may lead to international criticism.
2. The Role and Limitations of Japan’s Upcoming ESTA System
In response to growing concerns about border security and overstays, the Japanese government plans to implement its own version of an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). Under this system, travelers from visa-exempt countries will be required to apply online and undergo basic screening before boarding a flight to Japan.
This measure could strike a balance between maintaining visa-free travel and enhancing immigration control. By individually screening travelers based on travel history, purpose of visit, or past violations, the system offers a more precise and fair way to prevent high-risk individuals from entering the country without imposing blanket restrictions based on nationality.
In this respect, Japan’s ESTA system is a more rational and effective alternative to a complete suspension of visa waivers. It targets individuals rather than groups and thus upholds principles of fairness and nondiscrimination. It can also support public safety without compromising legitimate tourism, business, and humanitarian movement.
However, ESTA is not without limitations. First, its effectiveness relies on accurate and comprehensive data; flawed information could lead to unjustified denials. Second, the system must include clear procedures for appeals and transparency in decision-making to avoid infringing on travelers’ rights. Finally, its implementation must not be used as a covert tool for discrimination or unwarranted surveillance.
If misused or poorly communicated, ESTA could lead to mistrust among foreign visitors and strain diplomatic relationships. Therefore, its design and operation must align with international standards on mobility and human rights.
3. Toward a Sustainable Foreign Resident Policy
A sustainable immigration and foreign resident policy must balance public safety with human rights and multicultural coexistence. While short-term political or public pressure may push for stricter controls, such as the visa waiver suspension for Turkish nationals, these measures often risk fostering division and prejudice in the long run.
At the same time, the current system—particularly Japan’s refugee and provisional release policies—places significant burdens on both foreign residents and local communities. While Japan maintains strict refugee recognition standards, it lacks sufficient infrastructure to support those who fall into legal limbo. This creates social tension, economic hardship, and a lack of integration.
The solution lies not in exclusionary policies, but in systemic reform and comprehensive support. Enhancing language education, improving consultation services, ensuring transparency in immigration procedures, and strengthening collaboration with employers are all essential components of a more inclusive policy.
Conclusion
The proposal to suspend visa waivers for Turkish nationals may appear to offer a quick fix to immigration and security concerns, but in reality, it risks undermining fairness and international trust without solid evidence. Instead, the planned introduction of Japan’s ESTA system presents a more nuanced, effective approach that aligns with both security and human rights.
Ultimately, Japan must pursue immigration policies that are evidence-based, fair, and focused on building mutual understanding. Rather than reactively limiting access, the country should invest in mechanisms that allow for responsible, dignified, and well-managed migration in a way that strengthens, rather than divides, society.