Immigration authorities promise to launch it as early as March 2024. Initially, the program will be limited to countries whose citizens are already eligible for visa-free visits to Japan for a maximum duration of three months. The visa will be valid for a period of 6 months and cannot be extended. A new visa can only be applied for after the expiration of the previous one, with a minimum gap of six months.
However, it's important to note that digital nomads won't be considered residents. This means you can't apply for a residence certificate or lease long-term accommodations just yet.
Key requirements
🛂 Passport: You'll need a valid passport from one of the 49 countries that have visa-free entry and double-taxation agreements with Japan.
💵 Minimum Income: Applicants must earn at least ¥10 million (around $68,300 USD) per year to qualify.
🏥 Insurance: You need to have health insurance coverage for the entire duration of your stay in Japan.
Benefits
👨👩👦 Family: You can bring your spouse and children with you!
🗓️ Stay in Japan for 6 months.
Imagine working on your latest project in a cozy Tokyo café or brainstorming your startup's next big idea while overlooking Kyoto's serene landscapes. Japan's impeccable mix of ultra-modern cities and timeless traditions offers an unparalleled experience for digital nomads.
With super-fast internet, a reputation for safety, and an efficient public transport system, Japan is an ideal setting for digital nomads. To truly embrace the digital nomad lifestyle here, immerse yourself in the culture. Whether it's by learning the language, engaging with local communities, or exploring the country's diverse regions, your experience in Japan can be as enriching personally as it is professionally.
Japan's nomad visa concerns
The key concerns discussed about Japan's new digital nomad visa focus on its eligibility criteria, specifically the income requirement and the limited number of countries whose nationals can apply. There's also a debate on whether being a digital nomad on a tourist visa poses legal issues, with some arguing that remote work for a foreign company doesn't risk deportation, while others caution against assuming such activities are risk-free. Another point of discussion is the potential for these visas to normalize remote work while traveling, suggesting governments may start to regulate or tax such activities more strictly.
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But we still think this visa is a great first step in Japan's offerings for digital nomads, and we can't wait to see how it'll be improved in the future. We firmly believe that this visa is an excellent starting point in Japan's initiatives for digital nomads. We are excited about the potential enhancements that will be made in the future.