Le Japan is, along with China, one of the last two countries to which travellers still find it difficult to go.. But the destination is continuing its policy of reopening its borders step by step. Starting on 7 September, Japan will abolish the requirement to present a negative PCR test at Covid for less than 72 hours. The measure applies only to fully vaccinated travellers. For the Japanese government, this means three compulsory doses of vaccine.
Other relief : it is now possible to come individually instead of being forced to join a group. However, a full itinerary must be booked through a local travel agency, so that the traveller can be traced in the event of infection. On the other hand, no return for visa-free entry in force before the Covid crisis. European travellers therefore still need a visa before reaching the Empire of the Rising Sun...
Taiwan for October?
If there is one area in which Taiwan can claim to emulate its powerful Chinese neighbour, it is in its closed to the rest of the world. But it would appear that the Taiwanese government is finally ready to welcome back all foreign visitors. The President of Taiwan, Tsai Ing-wen, has just asked parliament and the authority responsible for managing covid to set up a reopening schedule. It seems thatOctober would finally allow foreign travellers to visit the island.
Until then, On 5 September, the government announced that it would abolish the visa requirement for European nationals.. However, quarantine and Covid pre-testing are still compulsory.
(Photo: Bangkok-LC)
45 days in Thailand without a visa
Finally, it should be noted that Thailand continues to reduce its entry measures for international travellers. The country has just decided to offer visa-exempt travellers (including European Union nationals) the possibility of be able to stay in the kingdom for 45 days instead of 30. The measure is temporary for the time being and valid until the end of March 2023. Travellers entering by land or on a 15-day visa will be able to stay for 30 days during the same period. The measure will come into force on October 1 and, according to the authorities, should help to stimulate the return of international tourists.
