Hello, this is Matsui of IMS Legal Professional Corporation. Maybe due to the spread of vaccinations, but the number of new COVID-19 cases in Japan have rapidly decreased. Though we still have to wear a mask outside, our everyday lives are happily returning. Coincidentally, perhaps, this coming November 8, 2021 will likely be an important day for us at IMS, as our main business is visas.
(1) Lift of Immigration Restrictions for Foreign Nationals Newly Entering Japan
This evening, there was an official announcement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare. From the beginning of this year, with the exemption of Olympic athletes/officials and family of Japanese nationals, etc., Japan was like it was in national isolation. However, starting November 8, 10AM (JPT), part of the restrictions will be lifted.
Those who apply to the following are allowed to newly enter Japan:
- Newly entering Japan for a short-term stay (3 months or less) for business or working purposes
- Newly entering Japan for a long-term stay
However, for either cases, they are allowed entry under the supervision of the “receiving companies/organizations". Entry restrictions for the purpose of sightseeing has not yet been lifted. The “receiving company/organization” must submit documents, including a written oath, activity plan, etc., to the Ministry and Agency having jurisdiction over the business, pass the screening in advance, and be issued an “examination certificate.” When applying for a visa, this “examination certificate (copy)” must be submitted, in addition to the regular documents. Especially regarding the status of residence “Student” and “Technical Intern Training,” an extremely large number of foreign nationals were not able to enter even after their COEs were issued. When you will be eligible to apply is specifically determined by the issue date of your COE.
The details are still not clear, but thinking of the PCR tests upon arrival, there is sure to be a limit to the daily number of acceptances at Japan’s sea and airports. Likely, there will be some kind of adjustments done to prior examinations and issuance of visas.
(2) COVID-19 Vaccination Mandatory for Non-Immigrant Visa Holding Foreign Nationals to Enter the U.S.
Currently, you can travel to the U.S. from Japan if you have a proof of negative PCR test result for COVID-19, tested at least 3 days prior your departure. However, beginning November 8, proof of being fully vaccinated will be required in addition to a negative COVID-19 test. In principal, the U.S. did not approve entry to foreign nationals who had stayed in European countries, China, India, Brazil, etc., 14 days prior to departure. For Japan, which was not included in this restricted country list, regulations will be tightened.
What conditions are considered “fully vaccinated”? The main requirements are the following;
- 2 weeks (14 days) passed after your dose of an accepted single-dose vaccine
- 2 weeks (14 days) passed after your second dose of an accepted 2-dose vaccine
Other important notes regarding this new measure are the following:
- The proof of vaccination must be a paper or digital record, with the name and date of birth of the traveler, vaccine manufacturer and date(s) of vaccination written on the certificate
- Pfizer, Moderna, and AstraZeneca vaccines are all OK
- Children under 18 years of age do not need to be vaccinated, but a proof of negative COVID-19 test is required
- This does not apply to U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, or U.S. lawful permanent residents. However, if not fully vaccinated, a proof of negative COVID-19 test, taken within 1 day prior departure, is required.
- A proof of vaccination is not required for non-immigrant visa interviews
The COVID-19 related immigration policies of each country change frequently and operated even beyond the law. Therefore, being updated with the latest information is extremely important. We at IMS will continue to keep you updated with the significant information in our blog.
For more information, please contact us below ↓
https://imsvisa.support/en/contact/
