COVID Test for Travel (Japan Regulations)
The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the lives of people in all aspects. The world community has witnessed many changes during this trying time, and most countries have passed new rules and regulations to prevent infection. Hence, you might have experienced issues while traveling to different countries, including Japan.
All travelers, including Japanese, will have to follow some travel rules while entering Japan. They have to submit a COVID test certificate to be allowed to enter the country. A negative COVID-19 test result is a must to land in Japan. The country will not allow you to board if you cannot provide a valid certificate, as stated by the Japanese government. However, the government has changed the rules after a considerable decline in COVID cases.
From September 7, 2022, you do not need to provide a valid certificate with a negative test result if you have a vaccination certificate. Yes, the vaccination certificate will work like a valid COVID test certificate, and you can enter the land without any further COVID test requirements. We will know more about previous and current rules in the following. Keep reading if you are planning to visit Japan.
COVID Test Requirements to Travel Japan
Japan is one of those countries that restricted the entry of global and own travelers during the pandemic. The objective was to protect the country from the virus and minimize the spread. According to the Japanese government, you cannot enter the country without having a negative covid test result within seventy-two hours of the departure. Same-day PCR test for travel is a great option for business travelers in such cases.
All the arriving passengers will have to follow the COVID test requirements. They must provide a negative test result issued within three days before they plan to board. Otherwise, the health authorities will not allow them to board and enter the country. Besides, all travelers, including Japanese, will have to fill out the Japan Health Declaration form. However, you do not need to carry the COVID vaccination certificate as stated by the government. However, recent developments have made it easier for global travelers to access Japan without going through a COVID test.
The approved vaccines for Japan are Moderna, Covaxin, Pfizer, Novavax, Janssen, and AstraZeneca. It is worth mentioning that the kids below six do not need to go through and show the test results.
Rules for Entering Japan
In addition to a negative test result, you will have to follow a few rules. You will have to take all the measures to prevent infection and stay safe during the pandemic. You can wear a mask, disinfect your hands thoroughly, avoid the 3cs( close contact, crowded places, and closed places, and avoid contact with unspecified. You will have to follow all these rules during your stay. As the number of global travelers is increasing, you can take all the precautions for yourself and the safety of others.
Now, the infection on a global level is less and more people are considering traveling. The rising number might increase the risk. You can take precautions, including quarantine after the arrival, depending on the arrival time. However, you will have to pay for the quarantine transportation. You can research the procedures and requirements to make your landing safe and hassle-free.
Recent Developments
Since the world is returning to normalcy slowly, some countries have relaxed travel restrictions. You might not need to provide a negative test result while traveling to other countries, including Japan. Tokyo took a step forward to make it easy for global travelers to access its land. Some significant changes happened in the last months.
From September 7, 2022, global travelers can land in Japan without providing a negative test result. The previous rules will remain the same for those who are still not vaccinated. It is not Japan only that has passed such regulations. You cannot enter most countries without a negative test result when not vaccinated. But all passengers landing in Japan are subject to precautions and emergencies. You will have to follow all the procedures, and some of them might take time. Hence, be patient and understand the rules to avoid last-minute hassles.
Rules regarding self-quarantine, on-arrival tests and place of accommodation have changed to grouping categories. Since the rules are changing to meet the current circumstances, you will have to visit the official website to know the recent developments. Prepare yourself according to new regulations and avoid any complications while boarding.
Rob Teitelman is an avid blogger and digital marketing enthusiast with years of experience creating content for businesses and brands. His work has been published on major publications and blogs across North America, covering a variety of niches from tech to real estate. Recreational guitarist, amateur photographer and avid fan of all things technology and gadgets.