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Japan Loosens its Borders for Students
and Businesses Travelers

By Global Business Development GPOD

Published：2021.11.09

Updated：2025.07.22

Japan Loosens its Borders for Students
and Businesses Travelers

By Global Business Development GPOD

公開日：2021.11.09

更新日：2025.07.22

A Pandemic-Filled World and Its Challenges

Nowadays, COVID-19 dominates nearly every aspect of life. We hear about it on TV, read about it online, and talk about it daily with friends and coworkers. Most of the information tends to be negative, highlighting the numerous problems caused by the pandemic. One of the major issues has been the strict border closures imposed by many countries. However, that tide is beginning to turn. A number of countries are now starting to relax these entry restrictions—Japan included.

Japan's Entry Policy Eases for Select Groups

Yes, Japan is now loosening its border controls, though not yet for tourists. Still, this is a significant step forward. As reported by The Japan Times and The Asahi Shimbun, from November 5th, Japan began allowing entry for students and business travelers who have the appropriate visas and invitations from sponsors. In addition, the required quarantine period has been shortened from 14 days to just 3, provided travelers test negative for COVID-19 via PCR. This is a welcome development and suggests that Japan may be moving closer to broader reopening. But exactly when that will happen remains uncertain.

A Culture of Caution: Japan’s Risk-Averse Nature

Japan’s societal mindset is deeply risk-averse. Safety is a top priority, not just in public policy but also in daily life. Phrases like “安全第一 (Safety First)” and Toyota’s “PO-KE-TE-NA-SHI” exemplify this approach. Even when case numbers drop to near zero, most people in Japan continue to wear masks. Although hopes are high that the borders may open fully by early 2022, the bureaucratic process for entry remains highly complex. For a full reopening to succeed, Japan will likely need to simplify its entry procedures to accommodate the growing number of arrivals.

Why This Change Matters: The Need for Foreign Visitors

Despite ongoing caution, Japan’s decision to ease restrictions for students and business travelers marks progress. These groups are vital to Japan’s future. With a shrinking domestic population, universities are increasingly dependent on foreign students to fill seats and stay financially viable. Similarly, many businesses rely on international connections and talent. Let’s not forget tourism, another sector hard hit by border closures. Although Japan is still far from fully open, these initial changes are promising signs of a gradual return to normal.

Thank you for reading!