With COVID-19 vaccinations for front-line essential workers already underway, Japan gradually expanded inoculations to the elderly population of those 65 years old or older on April 12. It will later continue to vaccinate those with underlying health conditions and finally the general public.

Here is what you need to know about getting vaccinated in Japan

What are the steps that I need to take to be vaccinated?

You will receive a vaccination voucher in mail along with a letter of notification from the municipality of your residence

Make your reservation online or by phone

Where can I get vaccinated? 

Vaccination venues vary with each municipality. The vaccination voucher sent from local governments will list the available venues. Municipalities are planning to use public facilities and gymnasiums, for instance, as large-scale vaccination centers. Local clinics may also offer shots as well.

Those who want to get inoculated at a venue outside the municipality where your residency is currently registered should contact your local government office

Who should not get a vaccine shot?

• Those who have a fever


• Those who are suffering from an acute disease


• Those who have a history of having severe allergic reactions such as anaphylactic shock


• Those who are deemed unfit by a physician to be vaccinated

Can those who were infected with COVID-19 get the vaccine?

Yes, but they may need to wait a certain period of time before getting the shot.

What do you do after you arrive at the vaccination venue?

1. Show your identification (driver’s license, health insurance card or passport are viable)


2. Submit medical questionnaire (best to fill it out in advance)


3. Get your initial diagnosis (to check your health condition)


4. Get vaccinated (approximately takes 1-2 minutes)


5. Receive vaccination certificate, which will be needed for the second vaccination


6. Rest for 15 minutes to monitor your post-vaccination condition

Who can get vaccinated? 

Those who are older than 16. Municipalities will be sending out vaccine vouchers based on the residency registration. If you are not registered (foreign residents who just arrived in Japan may fall into this category) or want to be inoculated in a municipality other than where you are registered, contact your local municipality office.

Is it free? 

Yes.

Ask me for any questions about real estate in Japan.

Koji Kitada