Japan’s Upcoming Digital Nomad Visa: A New Opportunity for Remote Workers
Travellers can’t get enough of Japan, voted the best country in the world in the 2023 Readers’ Choice Awards. However, until now, remote workers looking to live and work in this alluring archipelago were limited to 90-day stays.
That could all change next month, as reported by the Japan Times. Last week, the newspaper highlighted that the Japan Immigration Services Agency (ISA) plans to launch a six-month digital nomad visa in late March.
The Need for Longer Stays
It isn’t coming a minute too soon. While the first wave of post-pandemic travel began in Southern Europe, East Asia is now taking center stage, with Japan emerging as the standout star. This past December broke records for American travel to Japan, with 26.8 per cent more Americans visiting the country compared to December 2019.
Eligibility and Requirements
The highly anticipated visa will be open to remote workers who make at least ¥10 million (about £52,800) a year and are from one of 49 countries and territories, including the United Kingdom, the US, Australia, and Singapore. Self-employed digital nomads can apply, but they must have private health insurance, as reported by Japan Times.
- Eligibility requirements include:
- Annual income of at least ¥10 million
- Private health insurance
- Eligibility extends to spouses and children of the primary applicant
Visa Details and Application Process
Japan’s digital nomad visa isn’t just for solo travellers; recipients can bring along their spouse and children. Unlike some other programs, immediate extensions won’t be offered once the visa expires. However, digital nomads can reapply for the visa six months after leaving Japan.
Japan’s Tourism Recovery and Economic Contributions
As Japan’s tourism economy continues to recover approximately two years after removing COVID-19 travel restrictions, the visa will help facilitate longer-term stays and attract the economic contributions of millions of remote workers worldwide. More than 50 countries currently offer digital nomad visas or similar opportunities, including popular destinations like Portugal, Costa Rica, and Norway.
Why Choose Japan?
The visa is just one more reason for full-time travellers and expats to consider Japan as a prime destination. Offering everything from awe-inspiring natural scenery and artistry in the Seto Inland Sea to the exciting urban nightlife and culinary experiences of Tokyo, there’s truly something for every type of traveller—remote workers or otherwise.
