Japan Cancels Visas Issued in the Philippines and 10 Other Countries to Curb COVID-19 Spread

Don't worry, it's only temporary.
by Cristina Morales | March 27, 2020

In a move that we’re sure will break the hearts of travelers all over the country, Japan has decided to cancel visas issued in the Philippines and 10 other countries due to the COVID-19 pandemic, reports NHK.

Starting March 28, around visas granted in the Philippines will no longer be valid. Other countries affected are Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, Brunei, Vietnam, Malaysia, Israel, Qatar, Bahrain, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. All in all, these countries have had around 750,000 visas issued to them.

How long will this suspension last? According to GMA News Online, the visas will be suspended until the last day of April. However, this will be subject to review.

 

Other Japanese visa cancellations

Earlier, Japan had already invalidated visas issued in 40 other countries, including China, South Korea, Iran, Egypt, and most of Europe.

Originally, the cancellation of visas issued in China and South Korea was supposed to continue only until the end of March, but the Japanese government has decided to extend this period until the end of April.

As of this writing, Japan has reported 1,307 cases of COVID-19. 45 have died, while 310 have recovered.

 

Were you planning on traveling to Japan any time soon? Tell us how this news made you feel in the comments below.