Japan - Q&A from the press briefing (30 July 2020)

Q: Is France negotiating with Japan on the reciprocal opening of borders? When will it be possible to travel between the two countries again?

R : Based on the recommendations adopted by the Council of the European Union on June 30 and July 16, 2020, France has decided to lift the restrictions imposed on entry to its external borders of the European area for persons arriving from several third countries identified on the basis of certain health criteria, including Japan. This list of countries is subject to regular review, in coordination with our European partners, while taking into account changes in their respective health situations and conditions of reciprocity.

The restrictions instituted by the Japanese authorities on entering their country have a significant impact on both foreign residents and the activities of French companies. Together with our European and G7 partners, we are engaged in a dialogue with the Japanese Government aimed at softening these measures so that French and European residents can regain their freedom of movement while observing health precautions. Throughout Europe, Japanese residents are treated like our own citizens with respect to border restrictions.