Remote-work visa guide
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.
Plan around tax residency rules
Keep your travel plans organised with NomadSync, and check your tax position with a qualified professional.
Also Consider
Other popular digital nomad visa destinations
Passport Visa-Free Access
Check if your passport allows visa-free entry to Japan
United States
Visa-free access info
United Kingdom
Visa-free access info
India
Visa-free access info
South Africa
Visa-free access info
Turkey
Visa-free access info
Singapore
Visa-free access info
Mexico
Visa-free access info
Australia
Visa-free access info
Canada
Visa-free access info
Brazil
Visa-free access info
United Arab Emirates
Visa-free access info
Indonesia
Visa-free access info
We review and update this guide regularly. If you spot an error, let us know.
Planning your move?
Explore NomadSync's trip planner while you compare routes for Japan. Check the official visa guidance before applying.