On December 20, the Japanese government launched a digital version of the Covid-19 vaccine passport. The digital certificate has been made available in the form of an app that is compatible with both iPhone and Android devices. Note that the app is separate from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government’s own vaccination proof app.
Currently known as the Covid-19 Vaccination Certificate Application, the Japanese government app allows residents of Japan to present digital proof of inoculation against Covid-19. According to The Japan Times, the digital certificates will primarily be used as vaccine passports to streamline immigration procedures when travelling overseas, or as an entry pass for events or restaurants during a domestic state of emergency.
Kyodo News reports that the information provided in the app includes the vaccine manufacturer, the dates and number of times the user has been inoculated, as well as basic identification information including the user's full name and birthdate.
The digital certificate is currently valid for use in the 76 countries and regions that accept Japan's paper vaccine passport. Printed vaccine passports are still available and valid for use.
How to use the vaccine passport app
In order to use the app, you will need a plastic My Number card. The paper My Number card automatically issued to all citizens and residents of Japan is not enough – you'll need to visit your local ward office to apply for a proper My Number card. Once you have the card, download the app and use your smartphone to scan your My Number card to apply for the digital vaccine passport.
For more information, check out our full guide on how to apply for a Covid-19 vaccine passport.
You can also visit the app’s website (Japanese only) or the dedicated page on the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare website.
This article was originally published on December 14 and updated on December 21.
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