Japan: Officials to slightly ease testing for international entrants from mainland China effective March 1 /update 92

Event

The Japanese government will slightly ease entry requirements for international travelers from mainland China effective March 1. Under the new directives, all inbound passengers arriving directly from mainland China are required to obtain a pre-departure test certificate. Impacted travelers will also be subject to random on-arrival testing. Positive COVID-19 cases will be required to quarantine at a designated facility; authorities did not immediately specify the number of days travelers would be subject to isolation. Officials may amend travel restrictions at short notice.

Domestic Measures
Officials do not require facemasks in outdoor spaces, provided social distancing is maintained. Physical distancing requirements are in place for most long-distance transport services. Business establishments must adhere to social distancing protocols. Some organizations have reduced capacity limit requirements at various facilities, established temperature checks, or encouraged telecommuting for their employees. Officials allow up to 5,000 people or 50 percent capacity at sports and entertainment venues. Officials strongly advise symptomatic COVID-19 cases to self-quarantine for seven days; people are advised to only exit quarantine 24 hours after symptoms subside.

International Travel Restrictions
Authorities permit travel from all locations, and visa-free arrangements have resumed for applicable countries. Passengers must complete a health form and obtain a QR code before departure. Travelers who have received at least three doses of an approved COVID-19 vaccine are exempt from pre-arrival testing requirements with proof of vaccination. However, travelers without three vaccination shots must present a negative result from a COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours before departure.

Advice

Follow all official instructions.

Resources

Japan Health Form