Japan Digital Nomad Visa

Japan has introduced a new digital nomad visa that allows remote workers to live in the country for up to six months while working for companies based outside Japan. This visa provides an exciting opportunity for nomads to experience Japan’s unique culture and high-quality lifestyle without the requirement to work for a Japanese company. However, Japan’s digital nomad visa has specific eligibility criteria and is not renewable. Thus, after the six months of the visa are complete, applicants must leave the country for six months before they can reapply.

How to Apply for a Japan Digital Nomad Visa

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for Japan’s digital nomad visa, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Citizenship: Only individuals from select countries, including Australia, Canada, New Zealand, most of Europe, Brazil, Hong Kong, Mexico, and the United States, are eligible. The full list of countries is here.
• Minimum Annual Income: Applicants must demonstrate an annual income of at least 10 million Japanese Yen (JPY), approximately $65,000 USD.
• Health Insurance: Digital nomads must secure private health insurance covering a minimum of JPY 10 million (approximately $65,000 USD) in medical expenses related to injury, illness, and death.
• Valid Passport: The applicant’s passport must be valid for at least six months and have at least two blank pages.

Spouses and dependents accompanying the primary applicant must also prove their relationship by providing a marriage or birth certificate.

Required Documents

To apply for Japan’s digital nomad visa, applicants must submit the following documents:

• Visa Application Form – Completed and signed, along with a recent passport-sized photo.
• Proof of Remote Work – Documentation such as employment contracts, tax certificates, or business income statements demonstrating the applicant’s employment with a non-Japanese company.
• Proof of Income – Tax records, bank statements, or employment contracts verifying an annual income of at least JPY 10 million.
• Health Insurance Coverage – Proof of private health insurance meeting Japan’s minimum coverage requirements.
• Planned Activities and Stay Details – A document outlining work activities and intended duration of stay in Japan.

Applicants may also apply for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) before arriving in Japan. Although not mandatory, a COE can expedite the visa approval process by verifying that the applicant meets Japan’s visa requirements in advance.

Application Process

The Japan digital nomad visa application process includes the following steps:

1. Gather Required Documents – Collect all necessary documentation, including proof of employment, income, and health insurance.
2. Submit Application – Applications can be submitted online through Japan’s Immigration Services Agency or in person at a Japanese consulate or embassy.
3. Processing Time – The processing period varies, but applicants should prepare to wait for several weeks.
4. Receive Visa Decision – If approved, applicants can enter Japan and enjoy a six-month stay as a digital nomad.

Living as a Digital Nomad in Japan

Japan offers a variety of cultural experiences, delicious food, and excellent infrastructure for digital nomads. Major cities such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto provide high-speed internet, coworking spaces, and a vibrant expat community. Popular coworking spaces include WeWork Japan, Blink Smart Workspace, and The Hive Jinnan, which offer a great environment for remote work and networking.

Understanding Japanese cultural norms can make life in Japan much easier. Digital nomads should be mindful of social etiquette, such as punctuality, being quiet in public spaces, and removing your shoes when you enter a home.  

Important Things to Consider

• Non-Renewable Visa – Japan’s digital nomad visa does not allow for extensions. Applicants must leave Japan for six months before applying again.
• No Path to Permanent Residency – Unlike digital nomad visas in some other countries, Japan’s visa does not lead to long-term residency or citizenship.
• Financial Requirement – The income threshold is relatively high compared to other digital nomad visa programs.

If you meet the eligibility requirements, Japan’s digital nomad visa offers a unique opportunity to work remotely while immersing yourself in one of the world’s most fascinating cultures.