National Jun 1, 2021
Pandemic prompts record plunge in Japan-issued visas in 2020
Data released Monday by the ministry showed Japan had issued around 1.12 million visas for last year, down from about 8.28 million in 2019.
National Apr 16, 2021
Japan's passport remains world's most powerful — in theory
by Eriko Yamakuma
International travel may not be in the cards for the time being amid the COVID-19 pandemic, but holders can, on paper, access a record 193 countries without a visa.
Voices | FOREIGN AGENDA Mar 29, 2021
So long, bus No. 99 from Shinagawa. Thanks for the memories.
by William Lang
As Japan prepares to make immigration services available online, our writer waxes nostalgic on the positives of making the trip out to the physical space itself.
National / Social Issues Mar 27, 2021
Japan gave 93 foreign nationals the OK to bring in same-sex spouses since 2013
In order to be eligible, the couple must both be nationals of countries where same-sex marriage is recognized.
Baseball / Japanese Baseball Mar 6, 2021
Japan’s travel ban has left foreign baseball players in limbo
by Brad Lefton
Colin Rea — like more than a dozen other players who joined Japanese clubs in the offseason — is in limbo.
National Mar 4, 2021
With emergency extension for Tokyo area likely, Japan expands border control measures
by Magdalena Osumi
Arrivals from 13 more countries and regions will now be required to self-isolate for their first three days in Japan at facilities designated by the government.
National Feb 23, 2021
Lost in translation: Japan fumbles pandemic communication with foreign communities
by Magdalena Osumi
Growing concern over access to up-to-date, accurate official information highlights the government’s larger struggle to convey pandemic-related policies and support.
National / Crime & Legal Feb 22, 2021
An Osaka-based company and its owner have been accused of hiring Vietnamese who overstayed their visas because they were unable to return to their home due to the coronavirus pandemic, investigative sources said Monday. Police referred those involved to prosecutors without detaining them on suspicion ...
National | FYI Feb 4, 2021
Japan extends travel restrictions and tightens quarantine measures
by Magdalena Osumi
With the latest extension of the state of emergency, foreign travelers looking to enter the country will have to wait at least another month.
National | FYI Dec 29, 2020
Who is affected by Japan’s tightened travel controls?
by Magdalena Osumi
Technicalities in the revised policy have sparked confusion among new visa applicants and residents over whether they need to scrap plans to leave or return to the nation.
National Dec 27, 2020
Japan to halt new entry of foreign nationals over new virus strain
by Eric Johnston
The new directive means most nonresident foreign nationals will not be able to enter the country from Monday until the end of January.
National Oct 29, 2020
JICA aid agency to launch group to help foreign workers in Japan
Toyota Motor Corp. and Ajinomoto Co. are among companies that have joined the body.