COVID-19: State of emergency announced, travel restrictions updated

The Japanese government recently announced a new state of emergency for the Tokyo prefecture and an extended the state of emergency for the Okinawa prefecture.

Key Points:

• Officials implemented a new state of emergency for the Tokyo prefecture until Aug. 22. Spectators will not be allowed to attend the Olympic Games. Additionally, officials extended the state of emergency for the Okinawa prefecture until Aug. 22.
  • Quasi-emergency measures under the special measures law remain in effect until at least Aug. 22 for prefectures of Chiba, Kanagawa, Osaka and Saitama.
  • Quasi-emergency measures for other areas were lifted July 12.
• The Japanese government extended Certificate of Eligibility (COE) validity periods on July 5. Host entities must submit a petition letter to consular services when the applicant applies for a visa stamp to be eligible for the extension.
  • COEs issued between Jan. 1, 2020, and July 31, 2021, are now valid until Jan. 31, 2022.
  • COEs issued between Aug. 1, 2021, and Jan. 31, 2022, are valid for six months from the issuance date.

Additional Information: All individuals arriving to Japan, regardless of nationality or departure location, must present a negative PCR test conducted within 72 hours of departure and undergo a 14-day self-quarantine upon arrival.

BAL Analysis: Entry restrictions remain in effect and visa processing is suspended for all but a few exceptional cases. The response to the COVID-19 pandemic continues to develop, and BAL will provide additional updates as information becomes available.

This alert has been provided by Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. For additional information, please contact berryapplemanleiden@bal.com.

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