This chapter, Transnational Experiences: Migration, Travel Bans, and Legal Challenges, explores the compounded vulnerabilities faced by Japanese LGBTQ+ migrantsLGBTQ+ migrants – Japan abroad and non-Japanese LGBTQ+ residents in Japan during the COVID-19 pandemicCOVID-19 pandemic – Japan. Through participant narratives, the chapter examines how border restrictions, visa insecurities, and the absence of legal recognitionLegal recognition – absence of – Japan for same-sex partnerships fractured intimate relationships and exacerbated systemic inequalities. For Japanese LGBTQ+ individuals overseas, the lack of spousal visa eligibility and limited state support created a precarious environment, while non-Japanese queer residents in Japan experienced racial discrimination, job-related visa threats, and restricted access to culturally competent healthcare. Binational same-sex couples were among the most severely impacted, as Japan’s immigration policies excluded them from the humanitarian entry exemptions granted to heterosexual spouses. The loss of LGBTQ+ communityLGBTQ+ community – Japan spaces, such as Ni-chōmeNi-chōme – Shinjuku, Tokyo nightlifeNightlife – LGBTQ+ Japan, closures and PrideDigital Pride events – Japan events, further eroded social connections, with digital alternatives providing only partial relief. By situating these narratives within queer diaspora studies and global human rights frameworks, the chapter underscores the urgency of legal reforms to recognize diverse family structures, protect foreign workers, and ensure equitable healthcare. It calls for transnational advocacy and solidarity to challenge heteronormative state policies and create conditions of genuine equality and belonging.