Digital nomad visa
Japan Digital Nomad Visa
Last updated: May 2026
Quick Facts
- Duration
- 6 months (non-renewable; can reapply after 6 months outside Japan)
- Income Requirement
- ¥10,000,000/year (~$68,000 USD)
- Processing Time
- 5 business days (with COE); several weeks without
- Apply From
- Outside Japan only — at Japanese embassy/consulate
- Application Fee
- ¥3,000 single-entry (~$20 USD); ¥6,000 multiple-entry (~$40 USD)
Requirements
- 1Citizen of one of 49 eligible countries (visa-exempt + tax treaty with Japan)
- 2Annual income of ¥10,000,000+ from work outside Japan
- 3Private health insurance with ¥10,000,000 minimum medical coverage
- 4Valid passport (6+ months validity, 2 blank pages)
- 5Proof of income (tax certificates, employment contracts, or business contracts)
- 6Description of intended remote work activities
- 7Contact information reachable in Japan
How to Apply
- 1Verify eligibility (nationality from one of 49 eligible countries, meet income threshold)
- 2Gather documents: passport, income proof, health insurance, activity description
- 3Contact Japanese embassy/consulate to confirm requirements and schedule appointment
- 4Submit application in person or by mail
- 5Pay visa fee (¥3,000–¥6,000)
- 6Wait for processing (5 days with COE, several weeks without)
- 7Receive visa and enter Japan within validity period
Cost Breakdown
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Visa fee (single-entry) | ¥3,000 (~$20 USD) |
| Visa fee (multiple-entry) | ¥6,000 (~$40 USD) |
| Health insurance (mandatory) | ¥5,000–¥15,000/month (~$35–$100 USD) |
| Residence card (if staying 3+ months) | Free |
Living Costs
Japan is moderately expensive, though far more affordable outside Tokyo. Strong public transport and affordable food keep daily costs manageable. Budget ¥200,000–¥350,000/month ($1,400–$2,400 USD).
Tokyo
Rent ¥100,000–¥180,000/month ($680–$1,220); coworking ¥20,000–¥40,000/month; meals ¥500–¥1,500
Osaka
Rent ¥70,000–¥130,000/month ($475–$880); coworking ¥15,000–¥30,000/month; meals ¥400–¥1,200
Fukuoka
Rent ¥50,000–¥90,000/month ($340–$610); coworking ¥10,000–¥25,000/month; meals ¥400–¥1,000
Tax Implications
Not considered a Japanese tax resident. Exempt from Japanese income tax on foreign-sourced income. Only Japanese-sourced income is taxable.
Tax rules change frequently. Consult a qualified tax professional before making decisions based on this information.
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Also Consider
Other popular digital nomad visa destinations
Passport Visa-Free Access
Check if your passport allows visa-free entry to Japan
We review and update this guide regularly. If you spot an error, let us know.
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