As of April 1, 2024, Japan introduced a new “Digital Nomad Visa” under its “Designated Activities” category according to the “Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act.” This visa allows qualifying foreign nationals to live and work remotely in Japan for up to six months without renewing. It is available to citizens from countries that have tax treaties and visa-exemption agreements with Japan. Applicants must be engaged in remote work for companies outside Japan, earn at least JPY 10 million annually, and carry comprehensive private medical insurance. The visa also extends to immediate family members but does not grant permanent residency.
➡ WHAT ARE THE FINANCIAL REQUIREMENTS?
You must show proof of income of at least $68,000 USD per year.
➡ HOW LONG CAN YOU STAY?
You can live and work in Japan for 6 months with no visa extension.
➡ WHO IS ELIGIBLE?
Remote employees, freelancers, or business owners for a company registered outside of Japan.
➡ HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
Not disclosed yet.
➡ HOW MUCH WILL YOU PAY IN TAXES?
Non-permanent residents in Japan are taxed on their income earned within the country.
Nomad Visa Japan 2024
Japan presents a unique opportunity for digital nomads who value the seamless blend of deep-rooted cultural japanese traditions and state-of-the-art infrastructure. For those looking to work remotely while soaking in all that Japan has to offer, an important consideration is the appropriate visa required for legal residence.
The solution to this need is the forthcoming Japan Digital Nomad Visa, set to be introduced in March 2024. This initiative is designed to draw international talent to the country.
Introduction of the Japan Digital Nomad Visa
Japan is gearing up to roll out a digital nomad visa from March 2024. This new visa category will enable foreign nationals engaged in remote work to legally stay in Japan for up to six months. The visa aims to attract global talent and promote cultural exchange within Japan.
Advantages of the Japan Digital Nomad Visa
The Japan Digital Nomad Visa offers numerous benefits for remote workers and digital nomads:
- Allows stays of up to six months, a significant increase from the usual 90-day limit for visa-free entries.
- Enables exploration of Japan’s varied landscapes, from serene rural areas and charming coastal villages to bustling urban centers like Tokyo and Osaka.
- Provides the option to include dependents, such as a legally married spouse and children, under the same visa.
- Ensures access to Japan’s high-quality infrastructure and reliable internet connectivity, which are essential for efficient remote work.
Eligibility Criteria for the Japan Digital Nomad Visa
To qualify for the Japan Digital Nomad Visa, applicants must meet these criteria:
- Be employed remotely or operate as a freelancer or business owner for a company that is not registered in Japan.
- Earn a minimum annual income of at least 10 million Japanese Yen, approximately $68,000 USD at current exchange rates.
- Possess a passport from a country that enjoys visa-free travel and double taxation agreements with Japan, including nations like the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and member states of the European Union.
Verification of Eligibility
Prospective applicants should ensure their eligibility by consulting the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan website for visa-free entry prerequisites and the Ministry of Finance website for details on double taxation agreements. Confirming that your home country is listed on both sites is essential for a smooth application process.
Guide to Applying for the Japan Digital Nomad Visa
As a digital nomad, the prospect of working remotely from Japan combines professional flexibility with the opportunity to explore a culturally rich and technologically advanced country. However, the specifics of how to apply for the new Digital Nomad Visa are still being finalized by Japan’s authorities. Detailed guidelines are expected from the Immigration Services Agency soon, and this section will be updated accordingly.
Required Documentation for the Japan Digital Nomad Visa Application
To ensure a successful application, you will need to gather several key documents:
- A valid passport with at least six months remaining before expiration and at least two blank pages.
- A recent passport-sized photo, taken within the last six months.
- Proof of your remote work arrangements, such as an employment contract, a letter from your employer, or client invoices.
- Financial documents showing an annual income of over $68,300 USD from sources outside Japan, including bank statements or tax returns.
- Comprehensive health insurance coverage for yourself and any dependents for the duration of your stay in Japan.
Cost of the Japan Digital Nomad Visa
The official fees for the Digital Nomad Visa are yet to be announced and may vary depending on the applicant’s nationality and the embassy or consulate where the application is submitted.
Timeline for the Visa Application Process
The exact timeline for applying for the Digital Nomad Visa has not yet been provided. Prospective applicants should stay informed through official channels to know when applications will be accepted.
Alternatives If You’re Not Eligible for the Digital Nomad Visa
If the Digital Nomad Visa is not an option for you, there are alternative pathways to living and working in Japan or elsewhere as a digital nomad:
- Tourist Visa: Many nationalities can enter Japan without a visa for short stays of up to 90 days. This might be suitable for digital nomads looking to experience Japan temporarily.
- Work Visas: Japan offers various work visas tailored to different professional backgrounds. These require specific qualifications and typically a job offer from a Japanese company.
- Other Countries’ Digital Nomad Visas: Consider other destinations popular with digital nomads, such as Indonesia, Croatia, Costa Rica, and Portugal. Each offers unique cultural experiences and has specific visa requirements designed for digital nomads.