The “Automated Gate” is a system that allows both Japanese and foreign nationals to complete re-entry or departure procedures through an automated machine process, rather than a face-to-face examination by an immigration officer. This mechanism ensures a smooth, quick process with minimal waiting time, benefiting both the airport and its users.
While the latest “Face Recognition Gates” will be explained later, mid-to-long-term foreign residents holding a Residence Card should generally use the “Automated Gates.”
How the Automated Gate System Enhances Efficiency
The efficiency of the Automated Gate lies in eliminating the need to fill out paper forms for re-entry or departure and avoiding long queues for manual processing.
In essence, by completing the “User Registration” in advance at a local Immigration Bureau, the concentration of procedures at the airport is dispersed, functioning much like an “outsourcing” of the verification process within the immigration organization.
Who Can Use the Automated Gate?
Not everyone can use the Automated Gate. Eligibility is limited based on whether you are departing or re-entering. Furthermore, while the Face Recognition Gates (explained later) are restricted to foreigners on “Short-term Stay” visas for departure, mid-to-long-term residents with a Residence Card will find the Automated Gate to be the most efficient option.
Departure from Japan
The following individuals can use the Automated Gate when departing Japan:
Foreign Nationals
Foreigners who have completed pre-registration can use the Automated Gate upon departure.
Note on Use with Special Re-entry Permits
If you are using the “Special Re-entry Permit” system used by many mid-to-long-term residents, you must still submit an Embarkation/Disembarkation (ED) card to an officer after passing through the automated gate to receive the permit. In some cases, using the manual counter from the start may be smoother.
Japanese Nationals
Japanese citizens who have provided their personal identification information (fingerprints) via pre-registration at a local Immigration Bureau before departure. However, for most Japanese nationals, using the Face Recognition Gates mentioned later is generally more efficient.
Re-entry to Japan
The following individuals can use the Automated Gate when re-entering Japan:
Foreign Nationals
Foreigners who have received a re-entry permit (including Special Re-entry Permits) and have completed pre-registration at a local Immigration Bureau, providing personal identification information (fingerprints and facial images).
Japanese Nationals
Japanese citizens who have pre-registered their fingerprints. Again, for most Japanese citizens, Face Recognition Gates are recommended for better overall efficiency.
User Registration (Application for Automated Gate Use)
As mentioned in the eligibility sections, both Japanese and foreign nationals must apply for “User Registration” in advance to use the Automated Gate.
Locations
Local offices of the Immigration Services Agency or major airports.
Fee
Free of charge.
How to Apply
Submit the application form and identification at the locations mentioned above. This can also be done on the day of departure at major airports. The procedure itself is quick, usually taking less than 30 minutes.
Required Documents
- Application for User Registration of Automated Gate
- Passport
- Residence Card
- (Special Permanent Resident Certificate, if applicable)
How to Use the Automated Gate
- At the airport’s immigration area, follow the signs for the “Automated Gate” lane, separate from the manual counters.
- Place the photo page of your passport on the machine’s reader.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to scan your fingerprints (both index fingers).
- Once the gate opens, walk through. (If you need a stamp, consult a nearby officer).
Face Recognition Gate
The Face Recognition Gate is an automated system that uses facial recognition technology to verify identity. Unlike the Automated Gate, it does not require pre-registration and can be used immediately with an IC-equipped passport. However, for foreign nationals, this is restricted only to the departure of those on “Short-term Stay” visas.
Why Mid-to-Long-Term Foreign Residents Cannot Use Face Recognition Gates
At first glance, Face Recognition Gates seem more convenient because they require no prior preparation. However, their use is limited to Japanese citizens and short-term visitors. This limitation stems from the inherent security vulnerabilities of face-only systems.
Face Recognition Gates Cannot Fully Eliminate Passport Forgery Risks
With Face Recognition Gates, the system simply compares the photo in the IC chip with the person standing there. If an IC chip is sophisticatedly forged, the system may not detect the illegal entry. In other words, it relies entirely on the assumption that the passport issued by a foreign government is genuine, without a secondary verification layer.
Superior Reliability of the Automated Gate System
In contrast, the Automated Gate requires an in-person application at a local bureau. During this process, Immigration officers inspect the passport for authenticity using the following criteria:
- Print Content: Watermarks, holograms, micro-text
- Infrared/UV Checks: Using specialized equipment to check inks invisible to the naked eye
- Physical Sensation: Weight, texture, binding, and material feel
Once the passport’s reliability is confirmed at the highest level, the bureau directly links the person’s facial photo and fingerprints to the system. This significantly enhances the overall security and reliability of the identification.
Face Recognition Gates are for Low-Risk Users Only
Based on these factors, the two systems have the following characteristics:
| Automated Gate | Face Recognition Gate | |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-registration | Required | Not Required |
| Passport Reliability | High | Normal |
| Processing Speed | Fast | Fastest |
Due to these traits, mid-to-long-term residents—who have a greater impact on Japanese society through work and residency—are required to use the more secure Automated Gate. Conversely, short-term visitors, whose potential for illegal stay is shorter and who cannot work, are permitted to use Face Recognition Gates for departure to prioritize airport efficiency.
Retention of Departure
The right to depart Japan is guaranteed as a fundamental human right for both Japanese and foreign nationals. However, this right can be restricted in certain cases—specifically, when departure would result in the flight of a criminal suspect or when significant legal obligations (such as taxes or court appearances) remain unfulfilled. In such instances, the right to depart may be partially restricted for the public interest.