March 6th, 2020
Sophia University


To All Students, Faculty and Staff

The Government of Japan announced immigration restrictions for visitors from the Peoples Republic of China and the Republic of Korea on March 5, 2020. Beginning from midnight March 8 until March 31, visitors from both countries will be required to undergo a two-week quarantine at a designated location. In addition, all issued pre-entry visas will be suspended.

In response to this Sophia University requests the following of all students, faculty and staff:

1. Individuals currently located in the Peoples Republic of China and the Republic of Korea

For individuals with valid entry permission to Japan, please return to Japan as soon as possible.

Due to the suspension of pre-entry visas, some individuals will not be able to enter Japan at their planned date. Measures for the spring semester for individuals affected by this matter are currently being determined and will be announced on the university web page as soon as a decision has been made.

2. Individuals currently located outside of Japan (Countries other than Peoples Republic of China and the Republic of Korea)

Many countries and regions may introduce similar restrictions as infections continue to increase globally. In order to prepare for the spring semester, we ask that you please return to Japan as soon as possible.

3. Individuals with plans to travel outside of Japan

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan has raised the Infectious Disease Danger Level of the Republic of Korea to Level 2.

The University is now forbidding its students, faculty and staff to travel to the Republic of Korea in addition the Peoples Republic of China for the time being. The outbreak situation has expanded to other countries other than the Peoples Republic of China and the Republic of Korea, we request that you cancel any non-essential travel plans to other countries.

(Added on March 9th, 2020)
Those students who are participating in study abroad programs organized by the university are to be contacted by program coordinators through Loyola and email. Please check them regularly.