Fingerprints and photos now required for entry into Japan

By the end of November, 2007, Japan will be requiring fingerprints (left and right index fingers) and facial photos from all foreigners entering Japan except for:

• "Special permanent residents" (a status of residence reserved for special cases such as those brought to Japan from its Empire-period colonies and their descendants; and descendants of Japanese people who emigrated to, for example, South America)
• People under the age of 16
• Diplomats and others on "official government business"

For all other foreigners, including re-entrants, fingerprints and photos will be mandatory at immigration control; people who refuse to give fingerprints or have their photograph taken will not be allowed entry.

This is in addition to the previous requirements of

• Presenting your passport
• Submitting a disembarkation card (handed out on the airplane)
• Answering questions from the immigration officer