Japan is now on the list of countries offering digital nomad visas for those who work remotely. After a long wait, the news was announced by the government of Japan on March 31, 2024. This visa will allow foreigners to work from Japan remotely.
After the COVID-19 pandemic, digital nomad visas became very popular. Since many people were unable to work from the office, they started working from home remotely. Different countries began offering visas for those who work remotely, called digital nomad visas.
What’s Japan digital Nomad Visa?
The Japan digital nomad visa is a residence permit that allows foreigners to work remotely from Japan for up to 6 months.
The Japan digital nomad visa is not extendable. When the 6-month duration of stay ends, the visa holder must leave Japan. It is not possible to apply immediately for a new digital nomad visa.
After the duration of stay is finished, you must leave Japan and cannot apply for this visa again for 6 months. You will be able to apply for a new Japan digital nomad visa after 6 months.
This means you can stay with each new Japan digital nomad visa for up to 6 months in Japan per year.
Japan digital nomad visa eligibility
Not everyone is eligible for Japan digital nomad visa, there strict requirements and rules for eligibility which limit the number of nationas who can apply for this visa.
The first point is nationality restrictions, a small number of countries are eligible to apply for Japan’s digital nomad visa.
In more than 200 countries on the world only 49 countries eligible for Japan digital nomad visa, here is the list of all eligible countries.
Japan digital nomad visa eligible countries:
Argentina – Australia – Austria – Belgium
Brazil – Brunei – Bulgaria – Canada – Chile
Croatia – Czechia – Denmark – Estonia
Finland – France – Germany – Greece – Israel
Italy – Hong Kong – Hungary – Iceland – Ireland
Indonesia – Latvia- Lithuania – Malaysia – Mexico
Netherlands – Norway – New Zealand – Poland
Portugal – Qatar – South Korea – Romania
Serbia – Singapore – Slovakia – Slovenia – Spain
Switzerland – Thailand – Turkey – UK- US- Uruguay
Most of European and some south American countries are eligible for Japan digital nomad visa, a limited asian countries like Thailand, Brunie – Indonesia and Israel is eligible to apply for this visa.
Can the foreign residents of eligible countries can apply for Japan digital nomad visa?
Now the immigration is fast than ever in the world, there are a lot of people who are live in countries which is eligible for Japan digital nomad visa but they yet don’t have the citizenship of that country.
If they want to apply for Japan digital nomad visa there is not any solution or specific way to them, the Japanese immigration officers Will only accept passport of eligible countries. So unfortunately most of countries don’t have a solution for such conditions.
Japan digital nomad visa requirements
To apply for Japan digital nomad visa you should fulfill the following requirements:
- A minimum income of 5666 USD per month, you should have a Bank record, payment slips or any other legal documents
- An agreement or contract of partnership or job letter, which Will prove your remote work status
- Health insurance: a health insurance which should protect you against all risks for your entire stay in Japan
- A valid passport of eligible county with minimum 6 months validity
- Tow recent passport sized photos taken within last 6 Months
- Certificate of eligibility: this certificate through online application platform
- Visa application form
How to apply for Japan digital nomad visa?
Collect all the required documents: collect all the required documents and check few times that all documents are complete
Obtain eligiblity certificate: to apply for Japan digital nomad visa you will need to get the eligibility certificate from online application platform, this certificate can be obtain within 3 weeks, you will have to add this certificate with your documents
Contact Japan embassy: now contact the Japanese embassy they will guide you how to submit your visa application, it can be different in each country.
Japan digital nomad visa benefits
Japan’s digital nomad visa, part of the country’s broader strategy to attract remote workers and boost the economy, offers several key benefits that make it an attractive option for digital nomads. Here are five significant advantages:
1. Cultural Immersion and High Quality of Life: Japan is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, from ancient temples and tea ceremonies to modern pop culture and cutting-edge technology.
The digital nomad visa allows individuals to immerse themselves in this unique blend of tradition and innovation. Moreover, Japan consistently ranks high in global quality of life indices, thanks to its excellent healthcare system, efficient public transportation, low crime rates, and clean cities.
Living in Japan provides a safe and enriching environment that appeals to many digital nomads seeking both cultural depth and a high standard of living.
2. Robust Infrastructure and Connectivity: Japan boasts some of the best technological infrastructure in the world. With widespread high-speed internet and advanced mobile networks, digital nomads can work efficiently and stay connected with clients and colleagues globally.
The country’s commitment to technological innovation ensures that digital tools and services are readily available and reliable.
Additionally, Japan’s infrastructure extends to co-working spaces and business facilities, which are plentiful in major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, providing ideal environments for productivity and networking.
3. Strategic Location in Asia: Geographically, Japan’s location offers digital nomads a strategic advantage. Situated in East Asia, it provides easy access to other major economic hubs such as China, South Korea, and Southeast Asia.
This proximity is beneficial for business travelers and digital nomads who may need to visit clients or attend conferences and events across the region.
Additionally, Japan’s well-connected international airports and efficient domestic travel options make both regional and global travel convenient and time-efficient.
4. Work-Life Balance and Wellness Opportunities: Japan places a strong emphasis on work-life balance and wellness, which is evident in its numerous parks, hot springs (onsen), and wellness retreats.
The country’s natural landscapes, including mountains, beaches, and rural areas, offer ample opportunities for relaxation and outdoor activities. Digital nomads can enjoy hiking, skiing, and beach outings during their off-hours, contributing to a balanced and healthy lifestyle.
The cultural emphasis on mindfulness and community also supports mental well-being, making Japan an ideal place for maintaining both productivity and personal health.
5. Professional Growth and Networking: Japan’s vibrant business ecosystem provides ample opportunities for professional growth and networking.
As a digital nomad in Japan, individuals can tap into a dynamic market with a strong entrepreneurial spirit and a wealth of networking events, seminars, and industry meetups.
Tokyo, in particular, is a global financial center and a hotspot for startups and tech innovation. Engaging with local businesses and international companies based in Japan can open doors to new collaborations, partnerships, and career advancements.
Moreover, Japan’s reputation for excellence and precision in various industries can inspire and enhance the professional skills of digital nomads.
Japan digital nomad visa alternatives
If Japan’s digital nomad visa doesn’t meet your needs, there are several other countries offering attractive alternatives for remote workers. Here are three notable options:
Portugal’s D8 Visa
Portugal’s D8 visa, often referred to as the Passive Income Visa, is designed for individuals who can support themselves through passive income or remote work.
The visa provides a pathway to residency, offering access to Portugal’s beautiful landscapes, vibrant culture, and high quality of life. Portugal is also known for its relatively low cost of living, excellent healthcare, and strong expat community, making it a popular choice for digital nomads.
Colombia Digital Nomad Visa
Colombia offer a 2 years valid digital nomad visa with 6 months stay each year, this visa is require only 995 USD per month.
