Japan is the only Group of Seven member denying entry to long-term and permanent residents, and has set no clear criteria for their return.

The government says it has softened its stance on humanitarian grounds and will now allow foreign residents to re-enter the country regardless of their visa status.

Researchers who work in laboratories and new employees expected to acquire skills during workplace training sessions have been left in limbo.

Immigration authorities quietly published criteria that will allow some foreign residents to re-enter Japan despite a coronavirus-induced entry ban covering 111 countries.

As confusion continues over the Japanese government's re-entry ban for foreign residents, the international business community has started voicing concerns.

Many students from developing countries heavily depend on financial aid, and it is often the only way they can pursue higher education.

Non-Japanese students and faculty find study and research plans upended by pandemic restrictions.

The planned change in Japan’s border control policy will also be accompanied by stricter entry procedures.

The announcement comes amid intensifying criticism of the existing policy from the foreign community and business groups affected by the restrictions.

Stopping foreign residents from returning to Japan risks fueling prejudices and shattering trust in the government.