Key Points
- Effective April 1, 2025, Japan will require a Tuberculosis (TB) screening certificate for specific visa applications.
- Applies to mid- to long-term visa applicants, except for:
- Specified Skilled Worker visas
- Government-funded exchange programs
- Healthcare-related visas under the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA)
- Digital Nomad visa applicants are also subject to this requirement.
- TB screenings must be conducted at an approved medical institution in designated countries.
- The TB certificate must be submitted with the Certificate of Employment (COE) application and remains valid for 180 days.
Overview
Japan has introduced mandatory Tuberculosis (TB) screening for specific mid- to long-term visa applicants, effective April 1, 2025. The new regulation aims to enhance public health measures and aligns with Japan’s broader efforts to monitor health risks among foreign nationals entering the country.
Applicants requiring a Certificate of Employment (COE) must submit a valid TB screening certificate and their visa application. The screening process includes a chest X-ray conducted at an approved medical institution in designated countries. The issued certificate remains valid for 180 days from the examination date.
Exemptions apply to:
- Specified Skilled Worker visa holders
- Government-sponsored exchange program participants
- Healthcare workers under the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA)
However, Digital Nomad visa applicants must comply with the new TB screening requirement.
Looking Ahead
Foreign nationals applying for affected visas should schedule TB screenings well in advance at an approved medical institution in a designated country. Japan’s immigration authorities may release additional guidance on screening procedures, designated medical institutions, and the list of applicable countries.
Employers and sponsors assisting foreign workers should ensure compliance with the new requirement to avoid visa processing delays. Future updates may expand TB screening requirements to additional visa categories, making it essential for applicants to stay informed about Japan’s evolving health and immigration policies.
