Japan Digital Nomad Visa: Your Complete Guide to Working Remotely in Japan

Introduction

Have you ever dreamed of living and working in Japan but struggled with the limited options available for long-term stays? Or perhaps the 3-month tourist visa wasn’t enough to fully experience Japan? Now, with the newly introduced Japan Digital Nomad Visa, you have the opportunity to live and work remotely from Japan for up to 6 months.

Recently launched by Japan’s Immigration Services Agency, this visa is designed to attract skilled professionals, especially those in the tech and creative industries, who wish to experience Japan while working remotely. Japan hopes to capitalize on the rise of digital nomads, offering them the chance to immerse themselves in the country’s rich culture and thriving economy.

What is the Japan Digital Nomad Visa?

The Japan Digital Nomad Visa falls under the "Designated Activities" visa category and is set to launch at the end of March 2024. This visa allows remote workers to live and work in Japan for up to 6 months, with the possibility of bringing their spouse and children. However, extensions are not permitted, meaning individuals must reapply after leaving Japan once their visa expires.

Eligible applicants include remote workers, freelancers, and self-employed individuals who earn income from companies or clients based outside Japan. This even includes digital content creators, such as YouTubers, who earn overseas advertising commissions.

Why Choose Japan as a Digital Nomad Destination?

Japan has long been a favorite destination for travelers due to its safety, advanced infrastructure, and rich cultural heritage. For digital nomads, Japan offers world-class public transportation, high-speed internet, and a vibrant tech scene. The Japan Digital Nomad Visa now allows professionals to enjoy both the adventure of living in Japan and the stability of continuing their remote work.

However, one common criticism of the visa is its relatively short duration of 6 months. Those wishing to stay longer must reapply after leaving Japan. Additionally, finding suitable housing can be challenging, as the 6-month limit is too short for traditional rental agreements and hotels can be expensive. Many nomads may have to rely on options like Airbnb or home-sharing services for their stay.

What are the Benefits?

You’re not allowed to work in Japan on a tourist visa, and the current tourist visa is limited to 3 months. With the digital nomad visa, you get double the time to explore Japan while continuing to earn an income.

Additionally, 6 months is enough time to search for long-term job opportunities in Japan. You may even be able to switch to a regular work visa after finding a job.

What are the Limitations?

• You can’t work for a Japanese employer on this visa
• There’s no option to extend the visa. You’ll need to wait 6 months from leaving Japan before reapplying
• The visa doesn’t entitle you to a Residence Card, meaning you won’t be able to do some things like opening a bank account, signing up for a long-term phone contract, or accessing certain government benefits
• You won’t be permitted to rent long-term accommodation

Eligibility and Occupations

The Japan Digital Nomad Visa is open to citizens from 49 countries and territories, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, European Union countries, South Korea, Australia, and Singapore.

The visa is designed for individuals working in remote roles such as IT professionals, digital designers, remote administrative assistants, and international business managers. Freelancers and self-employed individuals who meet the income requirements are also eligible.

This visa allows for a maximum stay of 6 months, and while extensions are not possible, reapplication is allowed after leaving Japan.

Application Requirements and Eligibility

Annual Income

To qualify for the Japan Digital Nomad Visa, applicants must have an annual income of at least 10 million JPY (approximately 67,000 USD as of April 2024). This income must be earned from business activities conducted outside Japan. Applicants are required to provide supporting documents, such as tax certificates and employment contracts, as proof of income.

Employment Status

Eligible applicants must either be employed by a company based outside Japan or hold an executive position in such a company. Freelancers with contracts from foreign companies are also eligible, provided they meet the income requirement.

Other Requirements

• Applicants must hold private health insurance with coverage of at least 10 million JPY. This requirement also extends to spouses and children if they are accompanying the applicant.
• Applicants must be citizens of one of the 50 eligible countries or regions, which are either exempt from short-term visas for Japan or have a tax treaty with Japan to avoid double taxation.

For further details, a complete list of eligible countries and regions for nomads and their families is available in the official PDF (in Japanese).

Application Process

Information Gathering

Before beginning the application, it’s essential to gather the most up-to-date information. For the latest guidelines, applicants should consult the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website or contact the nearest Japanese embassy or consulate.

Required Documents

Typically, you will need the following documents: a completed application form, passport-sized photos, a valid passport, a detailed plan outlining your activities during the stay, proof of income (such as tax certificates), and proof of adequate medical insurance. If you are bringing family members, their documents will also be required. Some visas may require additional documents, such as a visa application fee or specific proof of insurance.

Submission and Review

You can submit your application either from within Japan or from abroad. If applying from within Japan, submit the documents to the local Immigration Bureau, where you will receive a Certificate of Eligibility. If applying from abroad, submit the documents to the nearest Japanese embassy or consulate. The review process can take several weeks or even months, so it's recommended to apply well in advance.

Approval and Issuance

Once your application is reviewed and approved, the visa will be issued. Be sure to follow up with the embassy or consulate for the status of your application.

Important Considerations

No Extension Allowed

The maximum stay is 6 months, and extensions are not permitted.

For Freelancers

Freelancers are eligible to apply if they have a contract with a company based outside Japan.

Tax Considerations

Depending on your income and duration of stay, you may be subject to taxation in Japan. It is recommended that you consult a tax professional to clarify your tax obligations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Taxation

You won’t be subject to Japanese income tax while staying in Japan under this visa (this is why the tax treaty requirement is in place).

Criticism

• 6 months is short compared to other countries’ digital nomad visas
• No option for an extension – you’ll need to leave Japan for 6 months before reapplying
• High salary requirements – the 10 million JPY minimum salary is a barrier for many
• Limited eligible countries – many would love to apply but aren’t on the list of 49 eligible countries
• No long-term housing rental allowed, though short-term rentals like Airbnb are available

Other Long-Term Stay Visas

Various visas are available, including work visas for engineers and international business professionals, entrepreneurship visas, working holiday visas, student visas, and family stay visas.

Summary

In addition to the Digital Nomad Visa, there are many other visas that allow for long-term stays in Japan. Choose the visa that best suits your needs and apply accordingly.

The Japan Digital Nomad Visa is an attractive option for those engaged in remote work. Make sure to check the application requirements and take advantage of this visa to enjoy living and working in Japan.

Related Information

• https://www.mofa.go.jp/