COVID-19 Vaccinations in Japan

It would seem that we can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel with regards to the rollout of the COVID-19 vaccine. Japan has joined many other countries with the announcement, in late March, of the distribution of these vaccines. Although Japan has been a step behind in this process compared to the U.S. and many countries in Europe, Japan is gradually moving forward towards the goal of getting all residents over the age of 16 vaccinated by the end of September.

To address the biggest concern, "Can I get vaccinated as a foreigner?", the answer is YES. You will be eligible for the vaccine when it becomes available to your age group. At that time, you will receive a vaccination voucher in the mail along with a letter of notification from the municipality of your residence¹. Then, just make your reservation either online or by phone. Once you do, you will be assigned a vaccination center for the municipality in which you reside. These vaccination centers will most likely be a public facility or gymnasium. You also might be able to get the shot at a local clinic.

Another question you may have is, "If I have an underlying health condition, can I be prioritized?". The answer is YES. The Japanese government is planning to vaccinate people with underlying health conditions after they are done with vaccinating the majority of the elderly population. You may be eligible as early as the end of May, and the Japan Times has listed the conditions that will be prioritized. Visit this link for more detailed information:

https://www.japantimes.co.jp/how-to-coronavirus-vaccinations-japan/