Japan Bans Most Foreign Arrivals After U.K. COVID Variant Detected

Japan is closing its borders to most foreigners for a month to prevent the spread of a new COVID strain. Starting Monday, only Japanese nationals and resident foreigners can enter, with stricter measures for returning citizens, including a negative COVID test and a 14-day quarantine. The new variant, more contagious and spreading rapidly in Europe, was found in travelers from Britain and South Africa. Japan has not reported domestic cases of this variant. Many countries have imposed travel bans on the UK.

What is the main reason for Japan's temporary border closure?

• To increase trade

• To prevent the spread of a new COVID-19 strain

• To reduce tourism

• To improve diplomatic relations

Until when are non-Japanese nationals restricted from entering Japan?

• December 31st

• January 31st

• March 1st

• February 1st

What must Japanese citizens provide upon returning to Japan?

• A letter of intent

• A travel itinerary

• A negative COVID test within 72 hours of arrival

• Proof of vaccination

How long is the quarantine period for returning Japanese citizens?

• 21 days

• 14 days

• 10 days

• 7 days

Where was the new COVID variant, found in travelers to Japan, originally detected?

• China and India

• Australia and New Zealand

• Britain and South Africa

• United States and Canada