Japan Opens Doors to Digital Nomads with New Six-Month Visa Program

A six-month digital nomad visa is expected to launch in Japan by the end of March, offering remote work opportunities for workers from 49 countries and territories.

Long-awaited details on Japan’s new digital nomad visa were revealed on Friday as the country’s Immigration Services Agency announced terms of the program that will start by the end of March.

Japan, which has historically held on to stricter visa policies, unveiled plans for a six-month visa for digital nomads — targeting individuals with an annual income of ¥10 million ($68,300) or more, according to a report published by The Japan Times.

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The program under the “specified activities” visa category is designed for remote workers from 49 countries and territories — including the U.S., Australia, and Singapore — who seek to work within the country. Visa eligibility also extends to self-employed applicants. One required condition is that the traveling individual has private health insurance.

Additionally, spouses and children of the worker holding the visa will be allowed to stay in Japan, according to The Japan Times. However, recipients won’t receive a residence card or certificate — limiting access to some government benefits. Unlike other recently launched digital nomad visas, like Peru’s, Japan’s visa is not renewable, but can be reapplied for after a six-month departure from Japan.