Japan plans to exempt business travelers from 14-day self-isolation directive
The government has decided to exempt Japanese nationals and foreign nationals with residency status returning to Japan from an overseas business trip from the current 14-day self-quarantine, under the condition that they refrain from using public transportation and follow other public health measures.
The exemption is applicable for travel anywhere in the world on business, and a formal decision will be made by the end of this month with the aim of implementation on Nov. 1. The aim is to promote recovery of the economy, which has been slowed by the spread of the novel coronavirus.
Returnees will be asked to limit their movements to their workplace and residence and to refrain from going to public places for a period of 14 days; to submit an itinerary that specifies their work address and the people they plan to come in contact with; and to avoid using public transportation.
The government is considering asking companies and organizations to pledge to take thorough countermeasures for the coronavirus in regard to the returnees.
In addition to Japanese nationals, foreign nationals with residency status are to be eligible for reentry.
Currently, returnees from abroad are required to stay in a hotel or at home for 14 days. Because they cannot go to work during their period of isolation, many companies and businesspersons are believed to be avoiding overseas business trips.
As part of its efforts to promote overseas business, the government plans to lower the travel advice and warning for 12 countries and regions, including China, from Level 3 “Avoid all travel” to Level 2 “Avoid non-essential travel” starting next month. These countries and regions have strong economic ties with Japan and have seen their coronavirus situation become relatively calm
Along with China, the list includes Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, South Korea, Thailand, Vietnam, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Brunei, and Malaysia. This is the first time for the infection risk level to be lowered.
In line with that development, entry refusal from those 12 countries and regions will be lifted, and virus testing will no longer be required upon entry. Tourists will continue to be banned from entering Japan.
The government plans to add other countries and regions to the exemption in time. At present, 159 countries and regions are at Level 3.