The governments of Japan and Singapore have announced relaxations to the countries’ Covid-19 entry rules in the coming weeks.
Reports from Japan say that the country will no longer require incoming travellers to show a pre-departure negative test result, starting on September 7, provided they have been vaccinated three times.
Furthermore, the Japanese government will soon decide whether to raise the daily entry cap on travellers, currently set at 20,000.
Currently, those who wish to enter Japan must show proof of a negative test taken within 72 hours of departure.
A spokesperson for tour operator InsideJapan welcomed the reports, saying the removal of barriers to travel “is another big step” and more details are expected soon.
Meanwhile, Singapore’s health ministry has announced it will drop a seven-day quarantine requirement for arrivals who are not fully vaccinated, starting on August 28.
Non-vaccinated travellers will still need to test negative within two days before departing for Singapore.
A representative for the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) in UK said the latest easing of restrictions “makes the destination even more appealing to UK visitors” allowing them to enjoy the destination’s foodie scene, the Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix in October or Gardens by the Bay’s 10th anniversary this year.
Also, from August 29, Singapore will drop indoor mask requirements, making masks now optional for indoor and outdoor settings.
For the first time in more than two years, locals and travellers in Singapore will no longer be required to wear masks indoors except on public transport and in high-risk settings such as healthcare facilities.
More: InsideJapan Tours reports strong demand as trips resume