The Embassy of Japan has announced that, starting from the 20th of January 2023, it will resume the regular processing of various visa categories. This resumption includes the processing of five-year tourist visas, study visas, family visit visas, business management visas, highly skilled professional visas, and business visas. Notably, the previously suspended three-year tourist visas and single-entry tourist visas are expected to resume acceptance around February 2023. Henceforth, obtaining a visa for entry into Japan has become even more convenient.
The Embassy of Japan in China has concurrently updated the entry requirements and procedures for traveling to Japan:
1. Nucleic Acid Testing upon Entry to Japan:
Individuals flying directly from mainland China to Japan, regardless of vaccination status, are required to undergo a nucleic acid test within 72 hours before departure. A certified testing proof from a medical institution must be presented. When undergoing testing, please ensure the validity of the sampling type and testing method. Throat swab sampling is not recognized. (For individuals flying from Hong Kong and Macau to Japan, please refer to the Japanese government's website.)
The testing proof should include the following details. It is recommended to use the format specified by the Japanese government (in Japanese/English or Chinese). If unable to use the specified format, please fill out a "Declaration of Inspection" form.
- (a) Name, date of birth
- (b) Sampling type, testing method (only types and methods recorded in the specified format are accepted)
- (c) Test results, sampling time, delivery date
- (d) Name of the medical institution
Travelers to Japan can refer to the list of medical institutions for nucleic acid testing. When scheduling a test, please confirm the sampling type (nasopharyngeal swab). Additionally, upon receiving the testing proof, please independently verify for any omissions or errors in the recorded information.
2． "Visit Japan Web" (Online Service for Entry Procedures):
To facilitate smooth quarantine procedures, the Japanese government recommends all travelers use the "Visit Japan Web" online service before entering Japan. Travelers entering Japan can complete quarantine, immigration inspection, and customs declaration procedures in advance using "Visit Japan Web."
3．Upon Entry to Japan:
Individuals who have stayed in mainland China within the last 7 days before entering Japan and those flying directly from mainland China to Japan are required to undergo testing upon entry. (For individuals flying from Hong Kong and Macau to Japan, please refer to the Japanese government's website.)
4．Government Reminder:
It is prohibited to bring any meat products, vegetables, or fruits into Japan.
5．Recommendation from the Japanese Government:
All foreign travelers are advised to purchase medical insurance.
