Hello, this is Shimoyama from IMS Legal Professional Corporation. In October, Japan's entry restrictions on overseas travelers were considerably relaxed. In recent response to the spread of the COVID-19 variant now appearing in the UK, however, the following measures have been introduced:
Suspension of Entry into Japan from UK (excluding Japanese nationals)
Beginning October 1, new entries into Japan from all countries/regions have been permitted in principle under the so-called "Residence Track". However, this is on the condition that there is a host company or organization that can ensure epidemic prevention measures. However, beginning December 24, new entries from the UK using this system are no longer permitted for the time being.
※ This means that new visa applications are no longer being accepted in the UK.
Temporary Suspension of Special Measures for Returning/Re-entering Japan After a Short-Term Business Trip in the UK (including Japanese nationals)
As of November 1, Japanese nationals and those with a resident status are allowed to reenter Japan with a relaxed 14-day waiting period, similar to business travelers. However, this is on the condition that there is a host company or organization that can ensure epidemic prevention measures. But beginning December 24, travelers from the UK are not subject to this relaxation.
Strengthening of Quarantine Measures (including Japanese nationals)
As of December 27, Japanese nationals returning from the UK will be required to submit proof of negative COVID results taken within 72 hours prior to departure. Returnees who are unable to submit a certificate of proof will be required to quarantine for 14 days at a place designated by the quarantine station chief.
In addition, Japanese nationals returning from the UK and those with a resident status will be required to record their location information upon entry using a designated phone app.
※ Click here for the pledge form (in Japanese): https://www.mofa.go.jp/mofaj/files/100130023.pdf
Requests to Refrain from Short-Term Travel to the UK (including Japanese nationals)
On March 31, 2020, an Infectious Disease Risk Level 3 (travel advisory) was issued for the United Kingdom. Japanese nationals living in Japan and those with resident status are requested to refrain from short-term travel to the UK. (This is under the assumption that they will soon return to Japan.)
There are no changes to the existing border measures for countries and regions other than the UK.
In Tokyo, the number of newly infected people continues to rise, and it is still difficult to know who will be infected when and where. Though today is Christmas, I know many of you may be having a "Christmas at home" this year.
Let us keep focused so we can overcome this difficult situation.
For more information, please contact us below ↓
https://imsvisa.support/en/contact/
