In an exciting development for remote workers and digital nomads worldwide, Japan has launched its much-anticipated digital nomad visa in 2024, opening doors to a new era of work and travel flexibility. This groundbreaking initiative allows highly skilled professionals from select countries the opportunity to live and work remotely from the picturesque landscapes of Japan. Here’s everything you need to know about who can apply, the eligibility criteria, and what the visa entails.

Eligible Countries and Territories

The digital nomad visa is available to citizens of 49 countries and territories, emphasizing Japan’s strategic partnerships and international agreements. Eligibility is primarily extended to nations with a tax treaty with Japan or those that are visa-exempt for visits. This includes all European Union countries and extends to several other European nations, including Switzerland and the United Kingdom. Beyond Europe, citizens from Australia, the United States and  two other Asian countries are also welcome to apply.

This is a list of all the countries whose citizens can apply for Japan’s digital nomad visa:

1. Armenia
2. Australia
3. Austria
4. Belarus
5. Belgium
6. Bulgaria
7. Croatia
8. Cyprus
9. Czech Republic
10. Denmark
11. Estonia
12. Finland
13. France
14. Georgia
15. Germany
16. Greece
17. Hungary
18. Iceland
19. Ireland
20. Italy
21. Latvia
22. Liechtenstein
23. Lithuania
24. Luxembourg
25. Malta
26. Moldova
27. Monaco
28. Netherlands
29. North Macedonia
30. Norway
31. Poland
32. Portugal
33. Romania
34. Serbia
35. Singapore
36. Slovakia
37. Slovenia
38. South Korea
39. Spain
40. Sweden
41. Switzerland
42. Turkiye
43. United Kingdom
44. United States

Targeted Professionals

Japan’s digital nomad visa specifically targets highly skilled professionals, with a special focus on individuals working in the Information Technology (IT) sector. Eligible activities under this visa include working remotely for a company based outside of Japan or operating as a self-employed freelancer for clients purely based abroad. In a nod to the evolving digital landscape, this visa also caters to YouTubers generating income from advertisers based outside of Japan, acknowledging the significant role of content creators in the digital economy.

Income and Insurance Requirements

To qualify for this visa, applicants must demonstrate financial stability, with an annual income threshold set at 10 million Japanese Yen (approximately €62,672). Additionally, securing private health insurance is a mandatory prerequisite for applicants, ensuring that digital nomads have adequate coverage during their stay in Japan.

Visa Duration and Renewal

The digital nomad visa grants a maximum stay of up to six months, doubling the duration currently allowed for visa-free ‘short-term visitors,’ who are not permitted to engage in work. An important aspect to note is that the law states that one can only renew this visa six months after he or she has left Japan. The goal is to prevent back-to-back stays. This policy encourages digital nomads to explore other destinations between their sojourns in Japan, promoting a truly global remote working experience.

Accompanying Family Members

Recognizing the importance of family, the visa extends the possibility for children and spouses to accompany digital nomads to Japan. Similar to the primary applicant, accompanying family members must also be covered by private medical insurance, ensuring comprehensive health coverage for all.

Housing and Residency Restrictions

While the digital nomad visa offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience life in Japan, it comes with certain restrictions. Notably, applicants will not be eligible for residency and cannot rent long-term accommodation. This stipulation aligns with the visa’s intent to facilitate temporary stays for remote work without altering the country’s long-term housing and residency landscape.

In summary, Japan’s digital nomad visa represents a significant step forward in accommodating the evolving needs of the global workforce. By offering a blend of cultural immersion and professional flexibility, Japan is set to become a coveted destination for digital nomads seeking to enrich their work-life experience in one of the world’s most technologically advanced and culturally rich countries.