JATA Launches Campaign to Promote Overseas Travel with Passport Subsidies

The Japan Association of Travel Agents (JATA) has launched a campaign to promote overseas travel by subsidizing the cost of obtaining a new passport. The campaign, announced on March 24, 2023, involves 42 companies and organizations, including travel agencies and airports, offering subsidies ranging from 5,000 yen to 10,000 yen per person. Approximately 25,000 people are expected to benefit from these subsidies, totaling around 200 million yen.

The campaign aims to encourage overseas travel, which has remained sluggish despite the easing of COVID-19 restrictions. While inbound travel to Japan has increased significantly, outbound travel from Japan has only reached about 65% of pre-pandemic levels in 2024. Additionally, only about 17% of Japanese citizens held passports in 2024, indicating a potential barrier to international travel.

To address this, JATA's campaign coincides with the introduction of new passports with enhanced anti-counterfeiting measures on March 24, 2023. Major travel agencies will offer subsidies for obtaining these passports, either through points or gift certificates, for individuals participating in overseas travel tours. Some JATA members also offer subsidies for students studying abroad and individuals under 30 years old.

The campaign aims to boost overseas travel and revitalize the industry. With the easing of travel restrictions and increased accessibility to passports, JATA hopes to encourage more Japanese citizens to explore the world.