Japan is ending its pre-entry COVID-19 test requirement for fully vaccinated travelers with at least one booster dose, making it one of the last countries to do so.
The country, which has enforced some of the strictest border measures since the pandemic began, had required a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of departure.
"We plan to gradually ease border controls to allow entry procedures to be as smooth as those of other Group of Seven countries," Kishida said during a virtual press conference from his official residence, where he is isolating after testing positive for COVID Sunday. "We will speed up our efforts while balancing infection measures and social and economic activities going as much as possible."
Kishida also announced the isolation period for people who test positive for COVID-19 will be shortened but did not provide specifics. Currently, those with symptoms are required to isolate for 10 days and those without symptoms for seven days.
However, other restrictions in the country will continue to remain in place. Japan will continue its cap of 20,000 daily visitors.
