The United States, China and South Korea were among 49 countries and regions added on Wednesday to the government's list of places from which entry into Japan is now banned, part of its efforts to contain the spread of the new coronavirus.
Foreigners who have been in those countries or regions within the last two weeks will also be refused entry, except in special circumstances. This brings the total number of countries and regions subject to the entry ban to 73.
The directive was to take effect from Friday. Those allowed entry into the country from the listed places, including Japanese citizens, will be requested to take a PCR test for the coronavirus.
It was also decided that those allowed to enter Japan and Japanese citizens returning home, regardless of where their trip originated, will be requested to self-quarantine in their home or lodgings for 14 days, and to avoid using domestic public transportation.
This will apply to anyone entering the country, including returnees, from Friday to the end of the April.
Meanwhile, Japanese visas issued through Thursday anywhere in the world will no longer be valid, and visa exemptions have been halted.
The government also indicated it will take measures to limit the number of international flights into the country, aimed at ensuring that its system of testing travelers and securing waiting areas is not stretched to the breaking point.
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