Japan eases entry restrictions for foreigners with resident visas.

Japan's travel restrictions to combat the Covid-19 pandemic are among the strictest in the world, banning entry almost completely with very few exceptions, not only for tourists but also for those with long-term visas from over 140 countries. This means many permanent residents of Japan remain stranded, unable to continue their livelihoods and suffering immense financial pain as bills pile up. Others face agonizing decisions such as whether to leave Japan to attend a funeral or care for a sick family member, fearing they will not be allowed to return.

Rakuten's CEO, Hiroshi Mikitani, has urged the government to reconsider policies he believes risk diminishing Japan's attractiveness and stifling innovation. NHK television reported that the government has received "numerous comments" calling for it to ease restrictions to resume economic and social activities.

Approximately 2.6 million foreigners are permanent residents in Japan, and the government plans to expand testing at airports to accommodate the increased flow of people once restrictions are eased, NHK reported.

Huong Thao