Everything You Need to Know About Japan's New Digital Nomad Visa

Japan has forever captured the imaginations of the culturally curious traveller, thanks to its diverse mix of old and new, traditional and modern, cities and nature, and so much more. You now don’t have to take a career break to experience one of the world's most sought-after destinations. Japan’s digital nomad visa is the perfect ticket for travellers seeking to escape the 9-5 and delve deeper into a culture far removed from their own.

Picture this: you spend your days unpicking ancient traditions in Wakayama, or traversing untouched landscapes in Hokkaido, or perhaps exploring local neighbourhoods in Tokyo or embracing zen rituals in Kyoto. Get to grips with vibrant sub-cultures, including world-class art and shopping, and linger after dark for immersive culinary experiences and diverse nightlife. As somebody who has lived in Japan since 2019, let me show you the perks of a long stay in Japan and the logistics of applying for Japan’s new digital nomad visa.

What is a Digital Nomad?

A digital nomad is somebody who chooses to work online without a fixed office address. This was once an opportunity reserved for freelancers and workers in creative industries, Thanks to advancements in communications technology and company openness to remote working post-pandemic, people from many industries are now converting to this unique way of working. With huge economic benefits and a chance to shake up an ageing population, Japan has decided to cash in on digital nomads.

As a digital nomad, you have the flexibility to work from anywhere in the world. Linger in a spot for several months or hop to a new city every few weeks. Whether you’re self-employed or work for a company with remote working policies, becoming a digital nomad gives you the chance to immerse yourself in new cultures while making a regular salary.

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Reasons to be a Digital Nomad in Japan

While every trip to Japan guarantees an incredible experience, a short visit will never feel like enough time to uncover everything this country has to offer. As you settle in and grow new connections, you’ll get to see a new side of Japanese culture and daily life.

Whereas it might not compare to other digital nomad hotspots like Indonesia, creating a stable remote working environment in Japan is seamless. Reliable WIFI and high-quality workspaces reduce any hiccups as you make the transition. You’ll have convenience at your fingertips, as well as a vast array of design spaces and specialty cafes, especially in hubs like Tokyo, Fukuoka and Sapporo. Accessible transport networks, efficient service, and expansive shopping make it easy to set up a new life and routine in a few days.

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The Lifestyle of a Digital Nomad in Japan

Every subculture and interest is catered for in Japan. If you’re an art lover, you can immerse yourself in beauty, from traditional craftsmanship in Kanazawa to immaculate modern design in Naoshima. Once the sun sets, you can make new friends in tiny izakayas or sample innovative local food scenes. The yen is also weak at the moment, meaning your money on a Western salary will go a lot further.

While many tourists flock to Japan to experience the world-famous cities, a longer stay gives you the chance to escape to Japan’s natural scenery. You’ll find a wide choice of remote hotels in Japan, perfect for a weekend of recharging. Switch off from work with hikes through towering forests and sprawling mountain ranges.

Not to mention, staying in Japan for six months gives you the chance to experience the charm of the changing seasons. Watch the trees turn golden across hundreds of shrines and temples, curl up in a ramen shop on a snowy day, and, of course, witness the Japanese cherry blossoms creep across every landscape as spring approaches.

Accommodation for Digital Nomads in Japan

What type of accommodation to book in Japan will depend on your circumstances and budget. You could opt for capsule hotels, sharehouses, or private apartments. Finding a reputable real estate agency will help you navigate language barriers and cultural differences as you begin your search. Some foreigner-friendly companies I recommend for short stays and aparthotels are Hmlet and Metro Residences. Perhaps you might want to look at gaining some hotel partnerships to add an extra layer of luxury to your stay.

For even the most adventurous travellers, that’s a jam-packed trip with limited time to fully explore each area on a 7-day pass. There's not enough time to absorb the local culture fully and depending on the Shinkansen and seat reservation, you can expect to spend between 35,000 to 40,000 yen. With the cheapest JR Pass priced at ¥50,000, you won't have travelled enough to recoup your initial payment.

Visa Requirements for Digital Nomads in Japan

The visa will be available for 49 nationalities, including those with spouses or children. Self-employed people can also apply as long as you can prove you don’t work for any company based in Japan. Once your visa is confirmed, you can work from any location in Japan. Successful applicants won’t receive a residence card and can only stay for 6 months. If you want to stay longer, you’ll need to leave the country for six months before you can reapply.

While being a digital nomad in Japan is incredible, it won’t be easy for everyone to achieve. You’ll need to prove you earn an annual income of at least 10 million yen (£53k) to apply for a digital nomad visa in Japan. You also need to have private health insurance. During your stay, you’ll need to comply with Japanese tax regulations, which are likely to be more complicated as a digital nomad.

Is a Digital Nomad Visa in Japan Worth It?

Whether a Japanese digital nomad visa is worth it will depend on your individual circumstances and the nature of your work. Neighbouring countries like Taiwan and South Korea offer digital nomad visas with longer stays, ideal if you want to settle into a country on a longer-term basis. Not sure whether remote work in Japan is for you? You could also enter on a trial basis with a 90-day tourist visa and return home to apply for a digital nomad visa.

If you can’t get the idea of a digital nomad visa in Japan out of your head, you should keep an eye on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan’s website in the coming weeks.

Are You Ready to Explore Japan Like a Local?

You’ve watched countless YouTube videos, endlessly trawled outdated blogs and are lost in a sea of TikTok trends. You’re not sure where to start when it comes planning your Japan trip. Why not let me do the work for you? In Views from Japan I share everything I have learnt from travelling extensively in Japan over five years. Inside, I give you all the tools you need to create a truly meaningful Japan itinerary, and I can’t wait to share it with you!

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