yeah saw it after I replied, forgot to come back edit the post, thanks though.

All, have a question with visit jp. I am registered and adding a fam on the app and when uploading the fam's vac cert, it asked this:

"Is the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination certificate you are about to register the certificate of the person registered with this app?"

Two answers provided as Yes or No. I am guessing it's a "No" since I am the one registered? Any insights greatly appreciated.

Good question, I couldn't find anything in the FAQ that describes if it means the main registered person or the registered vaccine. I did find someone on reddit who chose yes their kids as well and they entered with no problem.

Appreciate. I went with "Yes" and it worked.

From Saturday the 29th, the last covid-19 restrictions at the border will be removed. It will no longer be required to show vaccination status or PCR test to travel to Japan.

https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/20...hanges-border/

now official: https://www.mhlw.go.jp/stf/covid-19/bordercontrol.html

Frustratingly inefficient customs process at KIX a couple of days ago - the customs QR code registration machines are taped off from the luggage belt area so you can't register while waiting for your bags (unless you're willing to duck under the tape). When you get your bags, you have to join a queue that's manned by an official who tells you which machine to go to - but he can't see them all and maybe 1/3 of the machines were going unused while people had to wait. Also time wasted walking to and from the machines due to the position of the queue. Having seen the inefficient setup I was tempted to duck under the tape and use one of the spare machines. Luckily it was quiet when I arrived so only a few minutes wasted, but I can imagine totally unnecessary chaos if it's busy!

So, now that COVID-related procedures are no longer necessary, is there any benefit to registering for the immigration/customs QR?

Customs can also be done on a separate app, which is where I normally do it. But it may only be in the Japan app stores.

For immigration, limited to no gain is what I hear. I go to different lines, so I don't know.

It always help me to remember that it's all about being orderly and compliant -- not about efficiency -- when I return to Japan every month -- and yes it drives me INSANE too! Have you ever gone to the Ward office, or a Japanese hospital? The Japanese force to comply as long as it takes without complaining ever is strong my friend....

And while we are on the topic -- why does Japan still require these forms (electronic or printed)? If the US can do away with it lol -- and nearly every other country around the world -- why still hang on -- it's actually inefficient and creates disorder.....

Just so I’m clear… travelling this Sunday 30 April to HND… so no need to complete anything on the ‘visit Japan web’ site any more, for any of it?

Just jump on a plane and turn up, fill in a paper customs form on the plane / on arrival ?

I believe either/or. The Visit Japan app can still be used for immigration/customs or you can do the paper form. Reports have been that on different days, either option could be quicker. I'd probably do both just for flexibility (as is my plan when I'm there in a month and a half).

Perfect, thank you!! I’d better get booking my initial hotel stay… completely forgot that it was going to be golden week, just booked this on a whim!! Haha

You can also register your landing permit in VJW for tax free purposes so you don't have to drag out your passport every time you go to a tax free counter.

as far as covid/fast track goes, correct (aside from the customs/immigration stuff as mentioned above), however to be safe best to have your vax card with you in case the airlines aren't up to date on policy and still think 5/8 is the day. easier than trying to argue your case at check-in.