All About Japan’s Digital Nomad Visa: A Remote Worker’s Guide

As the global remote working trend grows, more and more digital nomads are choosing to work and live in different countries. Japan, as an attractive destination, is gradually becoming a popular choice for digital nomads. This article will take an in-depth look at Japan’s digital nomad visa, providing a complete guide for remote workers on how to legally work, live and enjoy the country’s unique culture and high quality of life in Japan.

1. What is the Japanese Digital Nomad Visa?

Although Japan currently does not have a visa specifically for digital nomads, there are several visa options for remote workers. Different types of visas are suitable for different needs, and which visa you choose depends on the nature of your job, your planned length of stay and whether you have an employer. Here’s a closer look at the main visa types available for digital nomads:

1. Short-term stay visa (Tourist Visa)

• Suitable for the crowd: Suitable for digital nomads who plan to stay in Japan for a short period of time, especially individuals who want to experience Japanese culture, travel, or conduct short-term business activities.
• length of stay: A short-term stay visa allows the holder to stay in Japan for up to 90 days. This is ideal for those who want a short visit or a relaxing work trip.
• work restrictions: Although people holding this visa can engage in some informal activities (such as working remotely for foreign companies), it is illegal under Japanese law to use this visa to work for companies in Japan. Therefore, digital nomads holding this visa must strictly adhere to this work restriction.
  • warn: If you are found to be in violation of work restrictions, you may face fines, forfeitures, or be required to leave the country immediately.
• Applicable scenarios: For digital nomads who only plan to stay for a short period of time and want to experience life in Japan or do low-intensity work, the short-term stay visa is the most convenient option.
• Reference link：
  • Japan short-term stay visa application information
• Required materials for application：
  • Valid passport
  • Air ticket booking or travel arrangements
  • Proof of finances (sufficient to cover living expenses while in Japan)
  • Proof of no criminal record (subject to availability)
  • Proof of accommodation (e.g. hotel reservation or invitation letter)

2. Long-term work visa (Work Visa)

• Suitable for the crowd: Suitable for digital nomads who plan to work in Japan for a long time and engage in professional work. This visa is ideal for digital nomads who are working with a Japanese company on a long-term basis, are stationed in Japan to work, or have a remote work contract with a Japanese company.
• Visa type: Based on an individual’s professional background, long-term work visas are divided into multiple types:
  • Engineer/Humanities/International Service Visa(Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services Visa): Applicable to professionals in software development, IT engineering, translation, design, education and other fields.
  • Skilled work visa(Skilled Labor Visa): Applicable to workers with specific skills, such as architects, chefs, language teachers, etc.
• Application conditions：
  • A valid work contract is required and the employer must be a legal Japanese company. The contract should detail job responsibilities, salary and position requirements, etc.
  • If digital nomads choose to sign a long-term cooperation agreement with a Japanese company and provide remote working services, they may need to prove the continuity of their employment and their financial contribution to the employer.
• work restrictions：
  • Those holding a work visa must work for a Japanese employer, and the nature and position of the job must be consistent with the visa category applied for. For remote workers, a formal employment agreement with a Japanese company is usually required, and the work content must meet visa requirements.
• Applicable scenarios: Digital nomads who have lived in Japan for a long time and have formal jobs, especially remote workers who want to establish long-term relationships with Japanese companies, should consider this visa.
• Reference link：
  • Japan work visa information
• Required materials for application：
  • Valid passport
  • work contract
  • Resume and academic certificates
  • Employer’s incorporation documents
  • Tax certificate (to prove tax compliance)

3. Investment visa and self-employment visa (Investor/Business Manager Visa)

• Suitable for the crowd: For digital nomads who want to start a business, be self-employed, or work as a freelancer in Japan. If you have a business plan or want to independently engage in freelance work in Japan, then an investment visa or a self-employed visa will be the most suitable choice.
• Visa type：
  • Investor Visa: For those who wish to open a company in Japan, make large-scale investments, or do business in the Japanese market. Applicants need to prove to the Japanese government that their investment plans will make a positive contribution to the Japanese economy.
  • Self-Employed Visa (Business Manager Visa): For those planning to start a small business, freelance or wish to operate independently. Applicants are required to submit a business plan and demonstrate that their business will generate sufficient income to support themselves.
• Application conditions：
  • The investment visa requires applicants to prove that they have sufficient funds to support the launch of the project and that the planned investment will bring tangible benefits to the Japanese economy.
  • Self-employment visas require applicants to have a certain amount of capital to support their business, usually requiring a certain amount of company operating capital and a business plan that demonstrates the ability to generate ongoing income.
• Applicable scenarios: This type of visa is an ideal choice for digital nomads who plan to open a company in Japan, engage in freelance work, or undertake independent projects. Not only does it provide residency, it also allows the holder to operate independently in Japan.
• Reference link：
  • Japan investment visa and self-employment visa information
• Required materials for application：
  • investment plan
  • Proof of source of funds
  • Business license (if you already have a company)
  • Business plan and financial documentation for self-employed persons

2. How to obtain a Japanese visa?

The process of obtaining a Japanese visa requires preparing detailed materials and submitting the application in accordance with the prescribed procedures. Below are the detailed steps and instructions on how to apply for a Japan visa and the required materials.

1. Prepare required materials

Depending on the type of visa, applicants need to prepare a series of supporting documents. Here are some common visa requirements that digital nomads usually need to prepare:

• Valid passport：
  • Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months as this is a basic requirement for visa applications in most countries. When applying, your passport needs to have at least two blank pages for visa labels.
• visa application form：
  • There is a corresponding application form for each visa type. You need to fill in the appropriate form according to your visa type (such as short-term stay visa or work visa). Most visa application forms can be downloaded from the official websites of Japanese embassies abroad.
  • The application form requires basic personal information, travel plans, work information, etc. Make sure the information is accurate when filling it out.
• Proof of finances：
  • The financial certificate is used to prove that you have sufficient funds to support living and working in Japan to avoid becoming a public charge during your stay in Japan. Digital nomads are typically required to provide the following forms of financial proof:
    • Bank deposit certificate: Provide at least bank deposit statements for the past 3 months, showing sufficient deposits to support your stay in Japan.
    • Proof of income: If you work remotely, provide recent pay stubs, freelance contracts, or contracts with clients to show you have a consistent source of income.
    • tax bill: Provide your tax returns for the most recent year to prove your income and tax status.
• Employer or contract documents：
  • If you are a remote worker and have a formal work agreement with your employer or client, you will usually need to provide documentation:
    • remote work contract: If you work for a foreign company, provide an employment contract or project contract to prove that the nature of your work is legal remote work.
    • Japanese company cooperation agreement: If you are cooperating with a Japanese company, you can provide a contract or agreement to prove that you will have business contacts with the Japanese company during your stay in Japan.

2. Visa application process

Digital nomads usually need to submit their visa application through a Japanese embassy or consulate abroad. The specific process is as follows:

• Submit application materials：
  • Depending on the type of visa, you need to prepare and submit complete application materials. When submitting, you should ensure that all documents meet the requirements of the embassy. Most materials can be submitted online or in person to the nearest Japanese consulate.
• Visa application processing time：
  • Application processing time is typically1-2 months, the specific time depends on the visa type, the workload of the embassy and the completeness of the applicant’s documents. During visa processing, the consulate may require supplementary materials or conduct interviews, so you need to allow enough time to prepare.
• Pay visa fees：
  • Japan visas usually require payment of a certain visa fee, which varies depending on the visa type and nationality. Generally, short-term visas are cheaper, while long-term visas (such as work visas) are relatively expensive. The visa fee can be paid at the time of application submission by cash, money order or bank card.
• Waiting for visa approval：
  • Once you submit all the materials and pay the fees, you need to wait for your visa to be approved. During the approval process, the visa officer may contact you by phone or email to confirm some materials or ask for additional information.
  • Applicants can check the status of their visa application through the embassy website or by phone.
• Collect after visa approval：
  • Once your visa is approved, the consulate will notify you by email or phone. You can collect your passport and visa by following the embassy instructions. If sent by post, you will receive your passport with your visa.

3. Visa extension and conversion

If you already hold a Japanese visa and want to extend your stay in Japan or change your visa type, there are the following situations:

• Extension of short-term visa：
  • For short-stay visas, usually if you want to extend your stay in Japan, you must return to your home country and apply for a new visa. Japan’s short-term visa usually cannot be extended within the country, so you need to apply again after leaving the country.
  • It is only possible to apply for an extension in exceptional circumstances, if there are very specific personal or professional reasons.
• Extension or conversion of long-term visa：
  • For long-term work visas or investment visas, etc., it is usually possible to apply for extension or conversion to other types of visas within Japan (for example, conversion to a spouse visa or conversion from a work visa to an investment visa).
  • The specific conditions for extension depend on the type of visa, whether it meets the requirements of the Immigration Bureau, and whether you continue to engage in original work or investment activities.
  • For digital nomads already in Japan, they may need to convert to a new visa category if their job content or living situation changes. When applying for visa conversion in Japan, a new application needs to be submitted to the Japan Immigration Bureau.

4. Special reminder

• Visa requirements vary by visa type: The requirements for each visa are different, so make sure the visa category and application conditions you choose fully match your personal situation.
• sufficient preparation time: When applying for a visa, be sure to allow enough time, especially during busy seasons when visa processing times may be extended.
• stay legal: Always make sure your visa is valid while living in Japan. If your visa expires, you must apply for extension or departure immediately.

3. Life of digital nomads in Japan

For digital nomads, life in Japan has its own unique advantages and challenges. Understanding the cost of living, health insurance system, and characteristics of social and cultural life in Japan can help you better adapt to and plan for your long-term stay.

1. Cost of living

The cost of living in Japan is relatively high, especially in international metropolises like Tokyo and Osaka. Here are some of the major expenses digital nomads may face:

• rent：
  • In Tokyo, monthly rent for a studio apartment ranges from about 80,000 yen to 150,000 yen (approximately $500 to $1,000), while rent in Osaka is slightly cheaper, usually between 60,000 yen and 120,000 yen (approximately $500 to $1,000). $400 to $800). If you choose a shared apartment or shared apartment, the rent will be cheaper, usually between 30,000 yen and 60,000 yen.
  • Relatively speaking,KyotoandFukuokaRent in other cities is more economical, usually 20% to 40% cheaper in larger cities. For example, the rent for a studio apartment in Kyoto is around 60,000 yen to 100,000 yen, while in Fukuoka it may be even lower, around 50,000 yen to 80,000 yen.
• food：
  • Food prices are higher in Japan, especially eating out. For example, an average restaurant meal might cost 900 yen to 1,500 yen (about $6 to $10). If you cook at home, the prices for purchasing basic ingredients are slightly lower, and the prices of rice, vegetables and meat in supermarkets are usually higher than in Western countries.
  • Convenient convenience stores (such as 7-11 and Lawson) provide quick meals and snacks at relatively moderate prices. A bento usually ranges from 500 yen to 800 yen.
• transportation：
  • Japan’s transportation system is very developed, especially public transportation between cities. The subway and bus systems in Tokyo and Osaka are convenient and efficient, and monthly passes cost approximately 10,000 yen to 20,000 yen (approximately $70 to $140), depending on the length and frequency of the route taken.
  • If you live in Tokyo, many people choose to use a combination of JR and subway. You may need to pay relatively high transportation costs when commuting, but choosing to live in the outer suburbs of the city can reduce this part of the cost.
• Other expenses：
  • Utility bills range from approximately 10,000 yen to 20,000 yen (approximately $70 to $140) per month, depending on the living area and lifestyle.
  • Cell phone and internet services are more affordable, with monthly fees ranging from about 3,000 yen to 6,000 yen (about $20 to $40), but it’s important to note that choosing the right carrier can help save some money.

Generally speaking, the cost of living is relatively high in big cities, but other areas of Japan such as Kyoto, Fukuoka and other places are more economical. Digital nomads need to choose the right city and lifestyle based on their personal budget and lifestyle.

2. Health insurance

In Japan, all long-term residents are required to joinNational Health Insurance (NHI), which is crucial for digital nomads. Medical expenses are relatively high in Japan, and joining insurance can significantly reduce medical expenses.

• Join the National Health Insurance：
  • Once you obtain a long-term visa and legally reside in Japan for more than 3 months, you must join Japan’s National Health Insurance. The cost of insurance is usually based on your annual income. If digital nomads do not have a fixed income, they can refer to the minimum payment standard, which is usually between 1,000 yen and 5,000 yen per month (approximately 7 to 35 US dollars).
  • After joining the National Health Insurance, you can enjoy medical services, such as medical treatment, hospitalization, medicine, etc., and the insurance usually covers 70% of the cost. You need to bear 30% of medical expenses. Most medical services can be billed directly at the hospital, and the insurance will handle the payment in the background.
• Importance of health insurance：
  • Japan’s medical system is efficient and high-quality, but medical costs are expensive, especially emergency services, hospitalization and other services. Without health insurance, a single visit can cost thousands of yen. Therefore, having health insurance not only saves money on medical expenses but also ensures prompt treatment if health problems arise.
• How to apply：
  • To apply at a local government in Japan (such as a ward office or city hall), you can apply with your resident card, passport and visa information. The application process is usually simple, and government staff will calculate the cost of insurance for you based on your personal circumstances.

3. Social and cultural life

Japan has a long culture and rich social activities. Digital nomads can integrate into local life by participating in local activities and festivals, while enjoying Japan’s Internet infrastructure and improving work efficiency.

• Cultural events and festivals：
  • Japan has many traditional festivals, such asSakura Festival(spring),Bon Festival(summer),new year celebration(Winter) etc. Digital nomads can experience traditional Japanese culture and increase opportunities for interaction with local residents by participating in these festivals.
  • In addition, there are modern events and exhibitions across Japan, such asanimation exhibition、music festivalandfilm festivaletc., suitable for those interested in modern culture.
• networking opportunities：
  • Large cities in Japan such as Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto have a large number ofcafesandshared office space, providing a convenient working environment for remote workers. Many cafes offer high-speed Wi-Fi, comfortable seating, and a quiet atmosphere, making them ideal for digital nomads who need to work intensively.
  • In addition, shared office spaces in Japan (such as WeWork, Regus, etc.) are also very popular, and many digital nomads and entrepreneurs choose to work in these places. These workspaces offer flexible leasing options, a comfortable work environment and rich social opportunities for those who want to connect and collaborate with others.
• internet infrastructure：
  • Internet speeds in Japan are very fast, especially in big cities. Wi-Fi coverage is widespread in most cities, and free Wi-Fi can be found not only in cafes and shared office spaces, but even in public places such as parks, subway stations, and stations.
  • High-speed Internet not only provides convenient working conditions for digital nomads, but also makes remote work and communication with global customers smoother.

4. Tax issues of remote working

Digital nomads need to pay special attention to tax arrangements when working remotely in Japan. Japan’s tax system is relatively complex, involving different tax types and tax rates. It is crucial to understand how to reasonably plan taxes, especially the coordination of taxation in multiple countries. Here are some key tax issues and planning advice.

1. Personal income tax

Japan’s personal income tax consists of two parts: national tax and local tax. The tax rate is determined based on the individual’s income and is a progressive tax rate system. The higher the income, the higher the tax rate.

• income tax: There are several levels of income tax in Japan, with tax rates starting from 5% and going up to 45%. For example:
  • For annual income below 1,950,000 yen, the tax rate is 5%.
  • For annual income between 1,950,001 yen and 3,300,000 yen, the tax rate is 10%.
  • For income exceeding 4,000,000 yen, the tax rate can reach more than 20%.
  • The tax rate is 33% for income exceeding 10,000,000 yen; the tax rate is 45% for annual income exceeding 40,000,000 yen.
• These rates apply to income earned within Japan. If you are a non-resident and only occasionally work or live in Japan, you generally only need to pay tax on your Japanese-source income.
• local tax: In addition to state income taxes, digital nomads are also subject to local income taxes. Local taxes includeMunicipal taxandPrefectural tax, usually levied at about 10% of annual income, and the tax amount will vary depending on the local government.

2. Residence status and tax implications

In Japan, tax implications are closely related to an individual’s residence status. Japanese tax law divides individuals into “residents” and “non-residents” and determines tax liability based on this classification.

• non-resident: If you have not established a permanent residence in Japan and do not stay in Japan for more than 183 days per year, you are generally considerednon-resident. Non-residents only pay tax on income earned in Japan. Even if you have a fixed residence in Japan, if your residence period is short and you do not continue to engage in economic activities in Japan, you do not need to pay taxes on your overseas income.
• resident: If you live in Japan for more than 183 days, or you have a long-term residence in Japan, you are generally considered a “tax resident” and need to pay tax on your worldwide income. In other words, not only income earned in Japan is subject to tax, but all income derived from other countries (such as external income obtained through remote work) may also need to be reported and paid to the Japanese government.
  • This change of tax status will affect the taxes you need to pay. Therefore, if you plan to live for a long time and work remotely, it is recommended to consult a professional tax advisor to avoid tax problems.

3. Double Tax Agreement (DTA)

If you are a digital nomad working cross-border, you may facedouble taxationproblem. Specifically, if you live and earn income in Japan but have tax obligations in your home country, you may be taxed by both countries. To solve this problem, Japan has signed agreements with many countriesdouble tax treaty(DTA), designed to avoid double taxation on the same income.

• How to avoid double taxation：
  • Under a DTA agreement, usually after paying taxes in the country where the income comes from, the other country will grant corresponding tax credits or allow you to use the taxes you have paid as a deduction.
  • For example, if you earn income in Japan and pay Japanese taxes, but you also need to pay taxes in your home country, you can avoid double-paying taxes by applying for a tax credit from your home country’s tax authorities.
• If your country of residence does not have a tax treaty with Japan, you may need to make your own arrangements and pay taxes based on the tax requirements of different countries.

4. Tax planning while working remotely

Tax planning is especially important if you work remotely, especially from multiple countries for different employers. Here are some common tax planning tips:

• Understand tax laws: Remote workers should understand their country’s tax laws, especially how cross-border income is handled. If you plan to live in Japan long-term and have started working remotely for a non-Japanese company, you may need to file a return for worldwide income.
• Keep all financial records: To facilitate tax filing, it is recommended to retain all financial records, bank statements, contracts, pay stubs, etc. These documents can be very useful when filing returns with tax authorities.
• Professional tax consultant: Cross-border tax issues are often very complex, especially for groups such as digital nomads who work across borders. By consulting a professional tax advisor, you can better understand your tax responsibilities and optimize your tax burden. A tax advisor can help you understand double tax treaties, reduce tax risks and ensure you are compliant.

5. Consumption tax and other taxes

In addition to personal income tax and local taxes, there are other types of taxes in Japan that digital nomads may also need to know:

• consumption tax: Japan’s consumption tax is 10%, which applies to most goods and services. Remote workers need to pay attention to the application of consumption tax when purchasing office equipment, daily necessities, etc.
• social insurance premiums: As residents, digital nomads also need to join Japan’s social insurance system, includingpensionandunemployment insurance. Social Security costs are usually deducted from your income and adjusted annually based on income level and employment status.

5. The best cities for remote workers

Japan is an attractive destination for digital nomads, with different types of cities catering to various living needs. From the modern facilities of a metropolis to the ancient cities rich in cultural heritage, each city has its own unique charm. Here are a few cities for remote workers that excel in infrastructure, cost of living, cultural experiences, and more.

1. Tokyo

As the capital of Japan, Tokyo is not only one of the most dynamic cities in the world, but also a paradise for digital nomads. It brings together the most advanced technology, rich career opportunities and diverse culture.

• Infrastructure and convenience: Tokyo’s internet infrastructure is among the best in the world, with high-speed Wi-Fi available in almost all public areas and coworking spaces. Tokyo’s subway and public transportation systems are also very developed, making moving between cities fast and convenient. Tokyo’s shared office spaces such as WeWork, The Hive and Regus are scattered across the city, allowing remote workers to find a suitable workspace in various environments.
• cost of living: Although the cost of living in Tokyo is relatively high, especially rent and daily expenses, the city’s convenience and business opportunities it offers have made it a popular destination for digital nomads around the world. Choosing shared accommodation or areas further from the city center can lower the cost of living. Shopping and dining options are plentiful in Tokyo, from high-end restaurants to street food.
• Cultural and Career Opportunities: There are many cultural activities in Tokyo, and digital nomads can participate in various exhibitions, activities and social opportunities after busy work. As one of the global business hubs, Tokyo offers vast career opportunities for freelancers, creative workers, and technical talents.

2. Kyoto

Kyoto is a city that combines traditional and modern culture, making it an ideal choice for digital nomads who want to work in a peaceful environment while experiencing the atmosphere of Japan’s ancient culture.

• cultural experience: Kyoto is the heart of Japanese history and culture, with numerous temples, shrines and ancient streets. Digital nomads can experience the city’s strong traditional culture and enjoy its peaceful natural surroundings and beautiful landscapes of cherry blossoms and maple leaves. These features make Kyoto an ideal place for remote workers to find inspiration and relaxation.
• cost of living: Compared to Tokyo, the cost of living in Kyoto is relatively low. Although rent and consumption levels are slightly higher in the city center, the overall cost of living is still easier than in metropolitan areas. Kyoto’s rental market is mainly concentrated in the city center and nearby suburbs, with affordable prices and suitable for long-term digital nomads.
• Work atmosphere and creative community: Kyoto has a growing community of creative workers and freelancers, with many cafes and studios offering a quiet work environment. In addition, Kyoto often hosts cultural events and creative workshops, providing digital nomads with opportunities to interact with local and international communities.

3. Fukuoka

Located on the Japanese island of Kyushu, Fukuoka is a relatively small but vibrant city that has attracted a large number of digital nomads and startups in recent years.

• Cost of living and comfort: The cost of living in Fukuoka is much lower than Tokyo and Osaka, especially when it comes to rent, making it an ideal city for remote workers on a budget. The rent in Fukuoka is relatively cheap, making it a very suitable place for long-term living, whether in the city center or in the suburbs. In addition, Fukuoka’s natural environment is very beautiful, and there are many beaches and parks nearby for those who like outdoor activities.
• Entrepreneurship and innovation atmosphere: Fukuoka is one of Japan’s startup hotspots, with many technology companies and creative workers choosing to put down roots here. The Fukuoka City Government also actively supports digital nomads and startup companies by providing relevant entrepreneurial funding and tax incentives. Remote workers can find a vibrant innovative community and collaboration opportunities here.
• Social and Entertainment: Fukuoka’s cultural atmosphere is also very unique, with a wealth of music, art and food activities in the city. Fukuoka is known as Japan’s “Food City,” and its variety of authentic ramen, seafood, and other Japanese cuisine makes it an ideal place for diners.

4. Osaka

Osaka is Japan’s third largest city, known for its warmth, energy and diverse culture. For remote workers looking for a lower cost of living while enjoying abundant entertainment and business opportunities, Osaka is an option not to be missed.

• Cost of living and convenience: Compared to Tokyo, the cost of living in Osaka is lower, especially when it comes to rent. In Osaka, digital nomads can enjoy relatively cheaper accommodation and daily expenses. Although rents in Osaka are more moderate, the public transportation system here is also very convenient, with a well-developed subway and train network, making it easy for remote workers to travel.
• Social and cultural experiences: Osaka is the “kitchen” of Japan, and its food culture is particularly rich, from street food to Michelin-star restaurants, which are important reasons for attracting tourists and residents. Osaka people are known for their warmth and friendliness, and the social atmosphere here is perfect for digital nomads who want to make connections and expand their social circle. In addition, cultural events in Osaka are also very diverse, with a wide range of options ranging from traditional kabuki performances to modern art exhibitions.
• Diverse job opportunities: Osaka is one of the commercial and industrial centers of Japan, home to a large number of multinational companies and creative industries. While Osaka is primarily business and entertainment-focused for remote workers, many startups and freelancers have also established their own workspaces here.

in conclusion

Japan offers unique opportunities and challenges as a destination for digital nomads. Although there is no dedicated digital nomad visa, remote workers can still live and work in this dynamic country by choosing the right visa type. Whether through short-term stay visas, long-term work visas, or investment and self-employment visas, digital nomads have multiple options to stay legally and enjoy Japan’s high-quality living environment and rich cultural experiences.

However, the cost of living in Japan is relatively high, especially in big cities such as Tokyo and Osaka, and digital nomads need to consider expenses such as rent, food, and transportation. In addition, digital nomads need to pay attention to the visa application process, renewal and transfer requirements to ensure that their stay in Japan is legal and sustainable.

In general, although Japan’s visa policy has certain requirements for digital nomads, with reasonable planning and adaptation, digital nomads can enjoy unique career and life experiences in Japan.