Japan Unveils a New Digital Nomad Visa—Here’s What You Should Know

With its inviting and adaptable work visas and affordable living costs, countries like Spain, Croatia, and Thailand rank among the top choices for digital nomads worldwide. However, Japan has recently emerged as a coveted destination for working travelers, as the government has tentatively announced a launch date of March 2024 for a six-month visa tailored for digital nomads, according to the Japan Times.

Since reopening its borders to international travelers in October 2022, Japan has experienced a steady rise in tourist numbers, although they haven't yet reached pre-pandemic levels. In 2023, the nation welcomed an average of just over 2 million visitors each month, a notable increase from the 140,000 monthly average in 2022. In contrast, 2019 saw an average of nearly 2.7 million visitors per month. With the Japanese economy currently facing challenges from a weak yen, there are hopes that a revitalized tourism sector could play a crucial role in its recovery.

Traditionally, securing a long-term stay in Japan has posed challenges for foreigners. Prior to the announcement of the six-month visa, the only two options for digital nomads were the tourist visa (a standard 90-day pass available to American citizens without special application, which prohibits working) and the working holiday visa, allowing citizens from 29 partner countries to live and work in Japan for up to a year—though unfortunately, the United States was not included in this program. Now, an alternative finally exists.

Who is eligible for Japan’s digital nomad visa?

To be eligible for Japan’s digital nomad visa, applicants must fulfill these four criteria:

• They must earn a minimum of ¥10 million annually (approximately USD$68,341 based on current exchange rates).
• They are required to have private international health insurance, as they won't have access to Japan’s national healthcare system.
• Self-employed individuals or independent contractors must provide evidence of regular work for a company located outside of Japan.
• Visa holders may bring their spouses and children to live in Japan, who must also be covered by private international insurance.

What is the process for applying for Japan’s digital nomad visa?

Details on how to apply for Japan’s digital nomad visa are still limited, but it is expected that the process will closely resemble that of Japan’s other long-term work visa for skilled professionals. Digital nomads planning to work in Japan will need to compile all necessary documentation and proof of employment to apply at a local Japanese embassy. While no further concrete information is currently available about the application process, we anticipate more details will be released in the coming weeks as the program's official launch in March approaches.

Key considerations for Japan’s digital nomad visa

The new visa designed for international remote workers will allow individuals to work from any location in the country without needing employment from a Japanese company. However, there are several important factors travelers should think about before making their decision:

• Japan’s digital nomad visa permits only a brief stay (up to six months), which is significantly shorter than in other East Asian nations like South Korea, where remote workers can stay for up to two years.
• Holders of the remote-worker visa will not be regarded as residents of Japan, meaning they won’t have the legal right to rent long-term accommodations such as apartments or houses. Instead, they will need to seek short-term housing options like Airbnbs or hotels.
• To reapply for the digital nomad visa, individuals must live outside of Japan for six months.
• It remains unconfirmed whether the digital nomad visa can be combined with the standard 90-day tourist visa.

As noted by the digital nomad resource A Brother Abroad, there are currently 35 million digital nomads working worldwide. Japan is poised to become a favored destination for remote workers.