Japan Pre-Entry Tuberculosis Screening (JPETS): A new phase in tuberculosis control following Japan's transition in a low-incidence era

Abstract

In December 2024, Japan's Pre-Entry Tuberculosis Screening (JPETS) program was introduced in coordination with the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW), the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Immigration Services Agency to mandate tuberculosis (TB) screening for mid- to long-term visa applicants and Certificate of Eligibility applicants from selected countries with a large number of foreign-born TB cases in Japan. To date, the target countries are located in Asia, accounting for a large proportion of foreign-born TB cases in Japan. These countries also have strong labor-migration ties with Japan. Based on a quality-assured screening process at designated Panel Clinics, JPETS aims to prevent the importation of TB, reduce the risk of its domestic transmission, and ultimately contribute to global TB control. Through robust international collaboration, JPETS also incorporates safeguards to ensure fair and equitable opportunities for migrants' social participation and well-being. This article outlines the historical background of Japan's TB control, the rationale, design, and anticipated impact of JPETS.