Japan’s travel restrictions to combat the Covid-19 pandemic are among the world’s strictest, banning entry almost completely with very few exceptions, not just for tourists but also for long-term visa holders from more than 140 countries. That means many permanent residents remain stranded outside, unable to continue their livelihoods and suffering huge financial pain as bills pile up. Others face agonizing decisions like whether to leave Japan to attend a funeral or care for a sick family member, fearing they won’t be allowed back.
Japan plans to expand testing at airports
Rakuten CEO Hiroshi Mikitani has urged the government to reconsider policies that he says risk reducing Japan’s appeal and stifling innovation. Public broadcaster NHK said the government had received “many voices” calling for it to ease restrictions to resume economic and social activities.
About 2.6 million foreigners are permanent residents in Japan, and the government plans to expand testing at airports to accommodate the expected increase in traffic once restrictions are eased, NHK said.
