Japan's 3rd Pandemic State of Emergency Closes Down Travel

The Government of Japan reimposed a state of emergency for Tokyo, Osaka, Hyogo, and Kyoto prefectures effective April 25, 2021, This declaration is scheduled to terminate on May 11 but could be extended further, stated the US Embassy in Japan's Health Alert.

The COVID-19 pandemic continues to increase in many parts of Japan, not just those included in the recent state of emergency declaration. The third state of emergency during the COVID-19 pandemic urges residents to take all possible precautions against the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus.

On April 26, 2021, the U.S. Embassy strongly urged U.S. citizens to monitor local news for updates to guidance for their area and comply with all local and national COVID-19 mitigation measures.

The Government of Japan continues to enforce strict travel regulations that prohibit most new foreigners from entering Japan. Foreign tourists and non-resident foreign business travelers remain prohibited from entering Japan.

Japanese citizens and foreign residents with a reentry permit are generally allowed to reenter Japan. Still, they must comply with strict pre-and post-travel testing requirements and self-quarantine upon arrival.

Regardless of the international point of origin, all travelers entering Japan remain subject to a 14-day self-quarantine upon arrival and are prohibited from using public transportation to include domestic flights, taxis, and rail.

Travelers arriving from certain areas or without proof of pre-departure COVID-19 testing may be required to quarantine for a period of time in a government-designated location. U.S. military and SOFA status personnel should speak with their command about upcoming travel, COVID-19 testing, and any restriction of movement (ROM)/quarantine requirements.

All travelers inbound to Japan must receive a negative PCR test within 72 hours of flight departure. These tests must be presented in the prescribed format and must comply with rigorous requirements. For information, please see the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

The U.S. Embassy and consulates are open for routine services, but appointment availability remains limited. Availability will be even more limited during Japan’s Golden Week celebrations. To schedule an appointment, visit this website for instructions.