Sep 13 (NHK) - Japan's government plans to streamline entry procedures for overseas visitors at Narita and Haneda airports, which serve Tokyo, and Kansai Airport in Osaka.
The changes are expected before the end of the current fiscal year ending in March.
Japan is experiencing a boom in overseas tourism, and the number of arrivals in expected to grow.
Foreign travelers are currently required to have their photograph taken and present their passport at separate checkpoints.
The government plans to integrate the two processes for people who register online in advance.
Haneda Airport began testing the system earlier this year. A government survey on about 13,000 passengers found arrival procedures were shortened by about two minutes.
A German student at Haneda said the system was convenient because all she needed to do was scan a code.
An Immigration Services Agency official expressed hope about improving efficiency while maintaining strict border controls.
