The Japanese government has decided to extend the measures to strengthen entry restrictions, including the ban on new entry of foreigners in response to the spread of Omicron, a new variant of COVID-19, until at least early next year.
According to the Yomiuri Shimbun and Asahi Shimbun, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida told reporters yesterday (18th) about the measures to strengthen entry restrictions, which are due until the end of this month, "Isn't it time to consider the future response after watching the year-end and New Year situation?"
Local media reported that it was an expression of extension of entry restrictions in response to Omicron.
The Japanese government has not, in principle, allowed new entry for foreigners since the 30th of last month.
Japanese and foreign nationals with mid- to long-term residence status are permitted to enter, but must be quarantined at accommodation or at home for 14 days.
In Japan, there are also signs of local infection, such as a confirmed case of Omicron infection in a person who has not recently visited a foreign country.
(Photo = Yonhap News)