Entry into Japan - a step-by-step guide
Updated 4/29/23
As of 4/29/23, traveler’s are no longer required to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test prior to entry or show proof of vaccination. Testing upon arrival will now only be required for those who are symptomatic - this applies to all traveler’s, including those traveling to Japan from China, Macau, and Hong Kong. Please continue to monitor the State Department, Embassy, and Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan sites for the most up to date information.
Updated 1/31/23
*Please note that the details provided below are solely for informational purposes. Refer to the appropriate State Department and Embassy sites for the most up to date information.
You heard the great news that Japan was re-opening to international traveler’s for the first time since early 2020 and bought a ticket. But now for the tricky part, how to make sense of all the different entry requirements. Where to begin?!
Visa-free tourism resumed Oct. 11, 2022.
U.S. citizens may travel to Japan without a visa for short term visits (up to 3 months).
Recommend enrolling in the Smart Traveller Enrollment Program and following the US Embassy on Twitter and Facebook for any updates.
COVID-19 requirements from US Embassy and Consulate and Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan
If you have been fully vaccinated AND boosted with vaccines approved by the Japanese government, then pre-travel COVID-19 testing is not required.
Must bring proof of the following via official CDC card (government/public institution):
Fully vaccinated and boosted = 3 total doses of vaccines that were approved by the Emergency authorization via WHO
In the United States, the following most common vaccines qualify per the Japan Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare:
Pfizer
Moderna
Johnson & Johnson
If you are not fully vaccinated based on the rules listed above OR if prior to your arrival in Japan, you are traveling from the People’s Republic of China or Macau SAR (Special Administrative Region) via direct flight OR were in mainland China within 7 days of your arrival in Japan are required to do the following:
Pre-departure test certificate as well as test upon arrival at a quarantine station.
Pre-departure test results must include the following and you must be tested within 72 hours of departure from home airport
NAAT tests are required (ex: PCR, LAMP, Smart Amp)
Antigen tests are not valid for entry
**This does not include Hong Kong SAR
Additional information linked here
*U.S. Embassy and Consulate Site for U.S. Citizens Traveling to Japan https://jp.usembassy.gov/services/welcomebacktojapan/
For quicker access through immigration, pre-register via the app/portal linked here
You may register a single account for all accompanying family members.
Additional Things To Know Before You Go!
Consider bringing a doctor’s prescription and letter of medical reason for all personal medications being brought into Japan, even those not considered illegal
Marijuana is illegal in Japan even for medical use
This includes CBD that has any trace of THC in it
Any medication with Amphetamines are illegal
This includes Adderall
Many OTC medications and prescription medications that are common in the United States are illegal in Japan
Including medication for pain, depression, ADHD, decongestants and allergies.
You may be arrested if you bring any illegal medications into Japan even with a valid United States prescription
Visit Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare: Information for Bringing Medicine for Personal Use and the Narcotics Control Department for directions on what medications may be brought in for personal use with special considerations
*Facemasks are universally worn in public places!
(c) 2023, TripMedRx, Inc.
