In addition to releasing the digital vaccine certificate on Monday, the Japanese government also launched a separate system for paperless entry when arriving in Japan from overseas. The system, called the Visit Japan Web service, is an online platform that simplifies the immigration process by digitising the customs, immigration and quarantine (CIQ) documents.
According to Kyodo News, the online system is expected to reduce the risk of infection and help compensate for the staff shortages at airport facilities. Unlike the digital Covid-19 vaccine certificate, which is only available through a smartphone app, the Visit Japan Web service is accessible from any modern web browser.
The service can be used by anyone entering Japan, including overseas visitors as well as Japanese nationals and foreign residents who are returning to Japan from abroad. The website is currently only available in English and Japanese, though more languages may become available in the future.
How to use Visit Japan Web
To use the Visit Japan Web service, simply sign up using your email address and log into your account using the password sent via email. Then fill out basic pre-travel information including your name, date of birth and passport number.
You’re also required to submit a certificate to prove you tested negative for Covid-19 within 72 hours before your departure. The platform allows you to upload a digital copy to submit to immigration officials, though you also have the option of submitting a paper certificate instead.
Finally, you can fill out online versions of documents that apply to you, including the disembarkation card, customs declaration form and immigration forms – no more frantically searching for a pen five minutes before landing. When you arrive in Japan, you can log into the site on your phone and get a QR code to show to immigration officials.
For more information, see the FAQ section of the Visit Japan Web site.
Need a vaccine passport in Japan? See our guide to getting a paper or digital vaccination certificate.
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