The Immigration Game

*Note: This post is of interest to any foreign nationals living in Japan, and probably for those who are planning to visit.*

The fall before I left for Japan, a good friend of mine in marketing was working on a big biometrics presentation that I helped give her feedback on and get some pictures for. I could not have, however, known that the biometrics information we were talking about would so directly affect me in the near future, especially in Japan (other than in minor ways, like that I can use my cell phone as a credit card or train pass).

It was just announced that Japan will soon be changing it's immigration policy, including adding new biometrics requirements for foriegners entering Japan. So what does this mean, exactly? Basically, beginning November 20th, Japanese Immigration officials at port of entry will now digitally scan the fingerprints and photograph all visitors to Japan ('cause you know you want someone taking your pic right after a 12 hour plane ride...). There are some exceptions, like if you are under 16 or a diplomat, but the exceptions are few... and do not apply to me or 'permanent residents' of Japan. It will be interesting to see this change when we go to India next month, but I have to admit I am a little disapointed that I won't be able to use the Japanese line when coming back from overseas, anymore:-(

While the change might seem a bit extreme (the work of former Prime Minister Abe?), it is probably important to mention that other countries have much more strenious procedures. My country, for example, will start scanning all TEN fingers next year...


*Someone recommended checking out this website for more information (Arudou Debito is an Immigration lawyer in the area, recently featured in Kansai Scene - see right panel): http://www.debito.org/index.php
*And a movie (more for a chuckle than anything...just watch a few min): http://nettv.gov-online.go.jp/prg/prg1203.html