The Japanese government is likely to ease certain visa restrictions for Chinese nationals by expanding the availability of multiple-entry visas. These visas, which allow holders to visit Japan multiple times within a specified timeframe, are currently issued to business visitors, intellectuals, and cultural figures. They come in four types, with validity periods ranging from one to ten years.
At present, multiple-entry visas are available to the spouses and children of these individuals. The government is now considering extending the 10-year visa option to other family members as well. Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya is planning a visit to China later this year to meet with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, during which he is expected to inform Wang about these changes in visa regulations.
In November, Beijing reinstated its short-term visa waiver for Japanese citizens and has urged Tokyo to simplify its own entry procedures in line with the principle of reciprocity.
