Applying for a Digital Nomad Visa in Japan: A 5-Step Guide
Japan, known for its thriving digital culture and bustling cities, has opened its doors to remote workers from around the world with the introduction of the Japan Digital Nomad Visa. This temporary residence permit allows digital nomads to stay in Japan for up to six months.
To apply for the visa, applicants must first meet certain requirements. They need to prove their status as remote workers, meet minimum income requirements, and have international health insurance. Applicants can submit their application form and documents to a Regional Immigration Control Office or Immigration Information Office in Japan, or utilize the online application platform if they are located outside of Japan.
Once the Certificate of Eligibility (COE) is obtained, the applicant can make a visa appointment at a Japanese consulate in their country of residence. The COE process can take about three weeks. If the applicant decides not to obtain the COE, they can directly make the visa appointment after preparing the necessary documents.
The Japan Digital Nomad Visa is not renewable, but you may reapply for the visa six months after you have left the country. It's important to note that digital nomads with this visa are not eligible to apply for a residence certificate or lease long-term accommodations. They will also not be considered residents in Japan.
Citizens from Singapore, South Korea, and Malaysia can enter Japan visa-free for up to 90 days, while citizens from EU countries, the UK, USA, Canada, Turkey, New Zealand, and Australia have visa-free access for 90 days. Citizens from 49 countries with visa-free entry and double-taxation agreements can apply for the Japan Digital Nomad Visa. Citizens from Brunei can enter Japan visa-free for up to 14 days, and citizens from Thailand and Indonesia can enter for up to 15 days.
The visa fee is either 3,000 JPY (around $20 USD) for a single-entry visa or 6,000 JPY (around $40 USD) for a multiple-entry visa.
Japan is one of the most digital nomad-friendly countries in the world, with internet cafes in Tokyo and a thriving culture. The country is attracting remote workers from abroad, especially non-EU/EWR/Swiss nationals, as part of its efforts to boost its economy and digital industry.
In July 2024, Japan launched its eVisa system, allowing citizens that require an entry visa living in the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, South Africa, Brazil, Saudi Arabia, Cambodia, Singapore, and Taiwan to apply for an entry visa online.
Applicants may bring their spouse and children with them to Japan. However, the specific eligible countries for Japan’s Digital Nomad Visa are not explicitly listed in the available sources, so eligibility may be broad for non-resident foreign nationals.
With its welcoming attitude towards digital nomads and its vibrant digital culture, Japan is an attractive destination for remote workers seeking a unique and exciting place to work and live.
