Originally Posted by
Majuki
I did VJW two weeks ago (entering at HND) at the recommendation of another FlyerTalk member, but I didn't seem to think it was necessary this time. If you've previously setup a VJW account, it's probably easier to continue using VJW. If you don't already have one, I'd just do the old paper form.
Previous experience:
My previous trip was a year ago when Japan was still requiring either proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test for entry. Having completed VJW allowed travelers to use the health QR code - there were 3 - to bypass the health check counters and proceed directly to the immigration queue. I also seemed to notice less scrutiny at customs for those using the VJW QR codes for their declarations versus those with paper forms. (If you have used VJW you scan your QR code at a kiosk in the customs area, confirm your answers to the customs declarations, and exit via automatic gates.) Two weeks ago I didn't notice much of a difference, and many more people had paper forms compared to my entries in December 2022 (at NRT) and January 2023 (at HND).
Thanks for the update. There was a system change on 25 January so if anyone downloaded QR codes before that date they will need to get a new QR code. Instead of separate QR codes for immigration and customs you now get one combined QR code.
If you have used VJW before the website remembers your details such as the passport number. You need to add info about your next trip, e.g. date of arrival, flight number, etc. Since I can never remember my passport number let alone the address of the place I’d be staying I think it’s worth spending some time to fill out the form online by answering questions such as if you have ever been deported from Japan and if you are bringing in firearms, crossbow, etc. I’ve already said I don’t find the website user-friendly but I’m not sure if the form requires a
157-page manual. You can complete VJW for your trip to the Do now at
https://vjw-lp.digital.go.jp/en/.
Make sure to take a screenshot of the QR code so you don’t need to go online to display the code.
.