Lana Oconnell
Japan's strict border closures during the COVID-19 pandemic caused frustration and inconvenience for international students, who were unable to enter the country for almost a year. In March 2024, the Japanese government announced it would begin relaxing border restrictions for international students, technical interns, and businesspeople. However, the reopening of borders was short-lived due to the emergence of the Omicron variant, leading to a swift entry ban and dashing the hopes of students once again. As of May 2024, Japan is reportedly set to reopen its borders to international students, but the details and specific timing remain uncertain.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Border status for international students | Open, with strict entry requirements |
| Border status for non-students | Open, with strict entry requirements |
| Previous border status | Closed to all non-residents |
| Reason for previous border closure | COVID-19, specifically the Omicron variant |
| Length of border closure | November 2021-March 2024 |
| Current entry requirements | Vaccination, testing, quarantine |
| Quarantine length | 3-14 days, depending on vaccination status and country of departure |
| Entry requirements for students | Pre-approval, residence permits |
| University requirements | Supervise students, report safety protocols to the government |
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What You'll Learn
Japan's border closure due to COVID-19
In November 2021, Japan closed its borders due to concerns over the Omicron variant, affecting all new entries, including foreign exchange students, interns, and business travellers. These measures were set to expire at the end of February 2022, but the strict border measures remained in place for longer. Japan's decision to implement these strict border closures gave the country time to prepare for an increase in domestic Omicron cases. However, the government faced criticism for its rigid control efforts, and many students expressed their grievances on social media.
In March 2024, the Japanese government announced it would begin relaxing border restrictions for international students, technical interns, and businesspeople. This was welcome news for those who had been waiting to enter the country, with international students making up 70% of those waiting. The return of students was gradual, with a former government official noting that it could be at least a month before the first overseas students returned and expressing concerns about a potential public backlash if COVID infections rose after their return.
Finally, on April 29, 2023, Japan lifted its border restrictions for all international visitors, except those from China. This marked the end of COVID-related border closures, with the last restrictions being phased out to return to a pre-COVID situation. The Japanese government decided to wait until after the first touristic spring to implement these changes, anticipating the Golden Week and the G7 summit in Hiroshima.
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Quarantine requirements for international students
Japan has been closed to international students for almost a year due to COVID-19. However, in March 2024, the Japanese government announced that it would gradually begin opening its borders to international students. This easing of travel restrictions is welcome news for students who have been waiting to enter Japan for the past two years.
International students will be accepted in phases, with priority given to those who received residence permits between January and March 2020. Students with residence permits from this period were allowed to apply to enter Japan in March 2024, while those with permits issued after March 2020 could apply from December 2021.
Upon arrival in Japan, international students are encouraged to undergo self-isolation. Quarantine requirements vary depending on vaccination status. Unvaccinated travellers must quarantine for 14 days, while vaccinated travellers must quarantine for 10 days. To qualify for the reduced quarantine period, travellers must provide proof of a vaccine booster and a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours before departure.
Additionally, students entering Japan from overseas must obtain an ERFS Certificate of Acceptance from their university and submit it as part of their visa application. The university must first complete a prescribed application on the Entrants, Returnees Follow-up System (ERFS) and issue a certificate for completion of registration online. This certificate must then be submitted to a Japanese embassy or consulate when applying for a visa.
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Screening and paperwork for entry
Japan's strict border measures have been a source of frustration for international students over the past two years. However, there is hope that the country will ease travel restrictions for students and business travellers. While waiting for further updates, international students can prepare the necessary paperwork for their entry into Japan.
To enter Japan as an international student, you must first obtain a visa. The specific period of stay is determined by the Minister of Justice for each applicant, not exceeding four years and three months. You may be asked to provide proof that you can cover your expenses while studying in Japan. This can include documents such as a savings balance certificate, income certificate, or taxation certificate. Here is a list of the documents you will need to prepare:
- Passport
- Visa application form
- Photographs
- Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
- Proof of financial capability
Once you have gathered these documents, you can submit your visa application to the Japanese embassy or consulate in your home country. After receiving your visa, there are additional steps to complete before entering Japan.
Upon arrival in Japan, you will need to present your passport, visa, and COE to the immigration authorities. You may also be required to undergo self-isolation for a period of time. Additionally, Japan has specific requirements for vaccinations and testing for the virus. Both Japanese and foreign nationals must provide proof of a booster vaccination and a recent negative test result to qualify for a reduced quarantine period.
During the immigration process, you will receive a Landing Permission stamp in your passport and a residence card (zairyu card) if you plan to reside in Japan for more than three months. This residence card must be carried with you at all times. After deciding on your residence in Japan, you must register as a resident at the municipal office administering your address within 14 days.
Furthermore, all residents in Japan are assigned a 12-digit social security and tax number, also known as the "My Number." This number is different from the one on your residence card. You will receive a notification card with your individual number after completing resident registration, and it is essential to keep this card safe as it may be required for various procedures and transactions.
It is important to note that entry requirements can change frequently, so it is recommended to contact the nearest Japanese embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information. Additionally, many common medications and over-the-counter drugs in other countries are illegal in Japan, so be sure to check the regulations before bringing any medications with you.
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International students as a priority in Japan's reopening
Japan's strict border measures have been a source of frustration for international students wanting to enter the country. In 2021, Japan implemented border closures in response to the emergence of the Omicron variant, which resulted in students, workers, and spouses facing dashed hopes and dreams. The Japanese government has since announced new border measures, prioritising the entry of international students, technical interns, and businesspeople. This is welcome news for those who have been waiting to enter Japan, with Osaka University, Kyoto University, and Tokyo University offering incentives to attract international students.
The return of international students to Japan is a gradual process, with universities expected to "manage their behaviour" and report to the government on safety protocols to minimise the risk of COVID-19 spread. While the Japanese government's previous lack of communication regarding border measures caused confusion and anxiety, the latest relaxations indicate a shift towards easing measures. However, some students remain cautious about the reopening of borders due to previous experiences, such as the swift re-closure in November 2021.
International students have expressed their eagerness to enter Japan, but they also emphasise the importance of timely and detailed information. The quarantine rules have been adjusted, with entrants facing one of three scenarios depending on their vaccination status and country of departure. Additionally, schools and companies are expected to supervise their sponsored students and staff, and all travellers are encouraged to self-isolate upon arrival.
The Japanese government is working to streamline the compulsory paperwork and screening process, recognising the significance of international students to the country's higher education sector. Japan's universities are highly regarded globally, and the country was a top destination for Asian students before the pandemic, attracting over 300,000 international students in 2019. As Japan continues to reopen its borders, the priority given to international students reflects the country's commitment to educational exchange and its recognition of the contributions these students bring to its academic community.
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Public backlash against international students
In 2019, Japan hosted 312,214 international students, making it a top destination for Asian students. However, the country's borders closed in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, causing uncertainty and damaging the confidence of international students in the Japanese government.
In November 2021, Japan announced it would gradually reopen its borders to international students. However, a former official from the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology (MEXT) expressed concern over a potential public backlash against incoming students if COVID-19 cases were to spike again. The official suggested that the public might blame "foreigners bringing viruses."
Universities and students welcomed the announcement, but there were concerns about the lack of detailed plans and uncertainty over how the reopening would be managed. There was also worry about the potential for public backlash, with a government official stating that it could be at least a month before the first overseas students would arrive in Japan.
Despite the optimism, Japan closed its borders again on November 30, 2021, due to concerns over the Omicron variant. These new restrictions applied to all entries, including foreign exchange students and interns. The measures were initially planned to last until the end of December 2021 but were subject to change.
In addition to concerns about a potential backlash from the public, there have been instances of discrimination against international students within Japanese universities. For example, the Tokyo University of Foreign Studies faced criticism and apologized for conducting a survey on the "perception of Japaneseness," which was deemed discriminatory and insensitive towards individuals with foreign roots living in Japan.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, Japan has finally opened its borders to international students.
International students entering Japan will face one of three quarantine scenarios, depending on their vaccination status and country of departure. The quarantine period can range from three days to fourteen days.
International students must have their entry visas and residence permits in order, and different rules will apply to students than to businesspeople. Schools and companies sponsoring international students are expected to supervise them and manage their behaviour upon arrival.
Japan gradually began opening its borders to international students in March 2024, with the process taking at least a month for the first overseas students to arrive.
Japan implemented strict border closures in November 2021 due to the Omicron variant, causing frustration among international students who were unable to enter the country.
