How to Get a Japan Digital Nomad Visa?

The Japan Digital Nomad Visa provides an excellent opportunity for remote workers. It allows you to live and work in Japan while enjoying its rich culture. How to get this visa? Our blog will guide you through everything you need to know about obtaining this visa. Let’s dig in.

Does Japan Have a Digital Nomad Visa?

Yes, we actually have a digital nomad visa in Japan. This visa is effective from late March 2024. How long can you stay in Japan as a digital nomad? If you are an eligible remote worker, you can apply and stay in Japan for six months. After six months you must leave Japan for at least six months before you can reapply.

Key Takeaways:

• Duration is up to six months.
• Non-renewable. You must leave Japan for six months before reapplying.
• You cannot have a local job while on this visa.

Who is Eligible for the Visa?

To qualify for the Japan Digital Nomad Visa, you must meet these conditions:

• Be a citizen of one of the 49 eligible countries with visa-free entry and a tax treaty with Japan.
• Work remotely for a company that is not based in Japan.
• Show proof of an annual income of at least 10 million Japanese yen (about USD 68,000).
• Provide proof of private health insurance. It needs to cover at least 10 million yen.
• Have a clean criminal record, verified through official documentation.

Japan Digital Nomad Visa Countries List

Citizens from the following list of japan digital nomad visa countries can start their applications:

Japan Digital Nomad Visa Requirements

Japan visas come with bulletproof requirements. When applying for the Japan Digital Nomad Visa, prepare the following documents:

• A completed application form. You can get it from the Japanese immigration office or the official website.
• Your passport which must be valid for the duration of your stay.
• Recent photos that meet specific size requirements (4cm x 3cm).
• A tax payment certificate or income certificate that verifies your income of at least 10 million yen.
• Health insurance enrollment certificate that covers at least 10 million yen, including provisions for injury or illness​.
• A detailed, planned itinerary to outline your traveling schedules.
• A complete description explaining your intended activities during your stay​.
• Criminal record certificate to show you are involved with no illegal activities.
• Your Reply Envelope. It is an envelope for correspondence regarding your application​. You can read more about it in step 2 of the application process.

Note:

• While not mandatory, you can get a CoE (Certificate of Eligibility) to streamline your application process. This certificate acts as proof of your eligibility and consolidates your income, health insurance, and intended activities into one document​.

How to Apply for a Digital Nomad Visa in Japan?

Your Japan digital nomad visa application involves several steps. It is different from the Japan work visa applications. Here are the said steps in great detail. Stick to them to ensure a smooth application process.

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

Before starting your application, collect all necessary documents, including your:

• Completed application form
• Valid passport
• Passport photos
• Proof of income
• Health insurance
• Detailed itinerary
• Criminal record certificate
• Description of intended activities

Step 2: Prepare the Reply Envelope

It is a self-addressed envelope. You need to include it with your application for the Japan digital nomad visa. This envelope allows the immigration office to send correspondence or your visa decision back to you. You need a reply envelope for smooth communication with the immigration office during the visa application process​.

To get it:

1. You can buy a standard envelope at any post office or stationery store.
2. Write your name and address clearly on the envelope to ensure it reaches you.
3. Attach the appropriate postage for returning the envelope to you.

Step 3: Submit Your Application

You can submit your application for the Japan digital nomad visa from within Japan or from your home country. No worries. We will talk about both methods:

From Within Japan

1. Use the online directory or the Japanese Immigration Services Agency website to find the nearest Immigration Bureau in Japan.
2. Prepare your required documents ready to submit.
3. Go to the Immigration Bureau in person. Bring all your documents and your application form.
4. Pay the visa fee of approximately 3,000 yen (around USD 20). Payment methods may vary.
5. Submit your application and documents to the immigration officer. If you do not have a Certificate of Eligibility (CoE), you may need to apply for one at this time. The officer will guide you through this process.
6. After submitting your application, you will receive a receipt or confirmation. Keep this document safe, as it proves you have applied.

From Abroad

1. Check the list of Japanese embassies and consulates in your home country. You can use the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
2. Call or contact the embassy or consulate to confirm specific requirements. Verify the documents you need to bring and the application process.
3. Gather all required documents.
4. Go to the embassy or consulate in person. Bring your prepared documents and application form.
5. Pay the fee of approximately 3,000 yen (about USD 20). Verify payment methods accepted at the embassy or consulate.
6. Submit your application and documents to the consular officer. The Japan visa officer may ask questions about your plans in Japan. Answer clearly and provide any additional information they may need.
7. Be prepared for a possible interview. Bring your documents and be ready to discuss your application. This step can clarify any details about your stay and work plans​.
8. After submitting, the embassy or consulate will inform you about the processing time. This may take several days. Make sure you’re available in case you need to follow up on your application​.
9. Wait for processing. It typically ranges from five to ten business days. During this time, you can check your application status by contacting the embassy or consulate where you submitted your documents.
10. Once approved, you will receive your visa. Follow the instructions from the embassy or consulate to collect it. Keep your visa safe.
11. Travel and reside in Japan​.

If you want to know more about the Japan digital nomad visa application process, you can use the Visa Library’s FREE consultation services.

Condition for Spouse and Child of Digital Nomad

You can bring your spouse and children with you on the Japan digital nomad visa, but you need to know about its certain conditions. Here’s what you need to know:

Eligibility

Your spouse and children must meet the same visa requirements as you. They need valid passports and health insurance that meets Japanese standards.

Required Documents

• For each family member, gather the following documents:
• Valid passport; each passport must be valid for the duration of their stay.
• Recent passport-sized photos for each family member.
• Proof of private health insurance for your spouse and children, covering at least 10 million yen.
• Proof of relationship, including marriage certificates for your spouse and birth certificates for your children, to confirm your relationship.

Application Steps

1. Your spouse and each of your children must fill out a separate application form. You can get them from the immigration office or the embassy/consulate.
2. Gather all required documents for yourself and each family member.
3. When you submit your application, include the documents for your spouse and children with yours, either at the immigration bureau in Japan or the embassy/consulate abroad.
4. You must pay an application fee of approximately 3,000 yen (about USD 20) for each family member.

Processing Time

The processing time for your family members will be the same as yours, generally ranging from five to ten business days. During this period, you can check the status of their applications.

Benefits of the Japan Digital Nomad Visa

A Japan 6-month digital nomad visa offers these benefits:

• Ability to stay in Japan for up to six months. It is double the time allowed on a tourist visa (90 days).
• You can legally work for an employer outside Japan during your stay.
• You can take your time to travel and experience different parts of Japan.
• Ability to bring your spouse and children along under the same visa.
• You can engage in local culture and lifestyle without the restrictions of a tourist visa.
• You have the opportunity to connect with other digital nomads and local professionals during your stay.
• You can use your time in Japan to explore job opportunities or switch to a work visa later.

What are the Limitations?

• You cannot work for Japanese companies while on this visa.
• You won’t receive resident status, which means you cannot lease long-term accommodations. You will also not have access to certain government services or benefits.
• The visa allows only one entry into Japan. You need to reapply after your stay​.
• The visa is non-renewable, and you must leave Japan after six months​.

How Much Does It Cost to Live in Japan as a Digital Nomad?

Living expenses in Japan vary based on the city you live in and your lifestyle. Here’s a rough estimate of monthly costs:

• Rent
  • One-bedroom apartment in city center: ¥80,000 – ¥150,000 ($550 – $1,000)
  • One-bedroom apartment in outside city center: ¥50,000 – ¥100,000 ($350 – $700)
• Utilities
  • Basic utilities: ¥10,000 – ¥20,000 ($70 – $140)
  • Internet: ¥3,000 – ¥5,000 ($20 – $35)
• Food
  • Groceries: ¥30,000 – ¥60,000 ($200 – $400)
  • Meals: Inexpensive restaurants are around ¥1,000 ($7).
• Transportation
  • Monthly pass: ¥10,000 – ¥15,000 ($70 – $100)
  • Bus ride: ¥200 ($1.50)
• Health Insurance: ¥20,000 – ¥30,000 ($140 – $210) per month.
• Entertainment
  • Gym membership: ¥5,000 – ¥10,000 ($35 – $70)
  • Movie tickets: ¥1,800 – ¥2,000 ($12 – $14) each.

Japan Digital Nomad Visa Tax

You will NOT be required to pay taxes in Japan since your income comes from outside Japan. However, contact the authorities in your country and ensure you comply with tax obligations in your home country.

Conclusion

The Japan Digital Nomad Visa is your chance to live and work in Japan. So, if you are a remote worker, take advantage of this opportunity to experience Japan’s vibrant culture while continuing your professional career.

FAQs

Does Japan offer digital nomad visas?

Yes, the country has a digital nomad visa for eligible remote workers.

Is Japan enticing for digital nomads?

Absolutely! Japan offers tradition, modernity, and excellent infrastructure for remote work.

Which city in Japan is best for digital nomads?

Tokyo and Fukuoka are popular choices due to their vibrant communities and modern amenities.