With the rising craze of digital nomadism, remote workers are opting for their favorite locations over the office cubicle.
Whether it is the long stretch of San Francisco beaches or the cultural abodes of Asian countries, digital nomads are choosing a lifestyle outside the corporate hustle.
Among the best destinations for digital nomads, Japan has recently climbed to the top of the list.
With its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, serenity, and unique cuisine, it attracts the expat community’s attention. Making it a dream digital nomad destination.
Now that it has launched the Japan digital nomad visa in 2024, remote workers can now explore its cultural brilliance while getting monthly paychecks.
So, if Japan has also been a dream destination for you, getting the nomadic visa is the fastest pathway to turning it into a reality.
But, how to get the Japanese digital nomad visa? No need to think too much, your remote buddy has got you covered!
In this article, I have brought you a complete guide on how to start your digital nomad life in Japan.
From the visa details and eligibility to the application process and renewal policy, I have curated everything right here.
So, what’s the wait for? Keep reading to start your digital nomad Japan life!
What Is The Japan Digital Nomad Visa?
Japan recently introduced the digital nomad visa for remote employees. It permits you to stay and work for foreign organizations in Japan.
And, you get this permit for a duration of six months. However, the visa does not allow a global community.
It has 49 specific countries mentioned from both the European and non-European continents. So, if you are a citizen from any of these countries, you can apply for the visa.
Why Should You Work Remotely In Japan?
Because of the variety of benefits, Japan is one of the most sought-after countries by digital nomads. Some of these benefits include:
1. Rich Cultural Exploration
Firstly, Japan bombards you with its rich cultural heritage and excellent architecture.
From its beautiful heritage places to its modern structures, it offers you a blended version of its history and technology.
So, when you stay here, you get to explore its magnificent culture, try its delicious cuisine, and enjoy its serene natural landscapes from time to time.
2. High-Speed Internet Connectivity
Secondly, it is one of the fastest internet-providing countries in the world. So, as a remote worker, you don’t need to worry about the speed and connectivity in Japan.
Additionally, you can easily travel around the country, as most places have 5G+ internet speed and free Wi-Fi systems. So, working from anywhere is possible.
3. Co-working Spaces And Expat Community
Finally, with the growing remote work culture, Japan has specifically designed multiple designated hotspots for digital nomads.
These co-working spaces have internet connections and a perfect working environment to keep you focused on your work.
Furthermore, when you go to these co-working spots, you will find many digital nomads from around the world. So, you can easily become a part of the expat community.
Pros And Cons Of Remote Work In Japan
Even though working remotely in Japan is filled with benefits, there are also certain challenges. Here are the pros and cons of remote work in Japan:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Advanced infrastructure and high-speed internet connection. | Language barriers between natives and nomads. |
| Explore new technologies. | 2. Can’t work for Japanese companies. |
| Cultural abode with beautiful heritage buildings. | 3. No permit for long-term residency. |
What Is The Eligibility Criteria For The Digital Nomad Visa Japan?
Before applying for the Japanese digital nomad visa, you should know the eligibility criteria. This will help you to know what the requirements are for the visa.
Who Is Eligible To Apply?
To apply for the visa, you need to have these minimum requirements:
- You should be a citizen of any of the 49 specified countries. If you are not from the mentioned list, you are not eligible to apply.
- Your annual income should be over $65,000, which is equivalent to 1 million yen.
- You must have health insurance with a minimum coverage of 8 million yen. This amount will cover all your medical emergencies, hospitalization charges, and repatriation costs.
Document Requirements
Some of the documents that you need to provide during your Japan remote work visa application process include:
1. Application Form:
You need to have a duly filled application form for starting the visa process. So, make sure you fill up the form with valid information and a recent photograph.
2. Passport:
To verify your identity, you need to provide your valid passport. Moreover, your passport should have either 6 months’ validity or 2 blank visa pages.
3. Income Statement:
You will need to provide proof of your income for verification of the minimum requirement. So, your annual income statement needs to be attached to the application form.
4. Health Insurance:
Similarly, you need to provide your health insurance papers as proof of your medical coverage. Make sure to include the details of your coverage plan.
5. Proof Of Residence:
You need to provide a poof of your citizenship and residence. In case you are not from the mentioned countries, your visa process will be terminated.
6. Activity Plan:
Finally, you should provide a detailed activity plan stating all the things you want to do while staying in Japan. Also, you need to mention the duration of your stay.
How To Apply For The Japan Remote Work Visa?
Now that you know what the eligibility criteria for the Japan digital nomad visa are, you can follow these simple steps to apply for the visa.
- Firstly, you need to visit the official site of the Japanese consulate and fill up the application form.
- Submit your required documents with proper validity and details mentioned.
- Once the processing starts, you need to wait for the screening call.
- If your application is processed successfully, you will need to go to the screening and get the approval.
- With the approval, you can get your visa and book your flight tickets to Japan.
To enhance your chances of approval, you can get the Certificate of Eligibility (CoE) before applying for the visa. And, attach the certificate with your application.
Moreover, it acts as a pre-screening document that states that you are eligible to reside in Japan under any visa for 6 months. So, it can help you get the visa faster.
Can You Renew The Nomad Visa Japan?
Unfortunately, you cannot renew the digital nomad visa in Japan. You need to wait for the visa to expire and then reapply for it.
This way, you can extend your stay over the fixed 6-month tenure. So, it might be difficult if you are looking for a renewable visa provision.
How To Get Permanent Residency With Japan Digital Nomad Visa?
Even though the nomad visa of Japan allows you to stay and work in Japan, it offers only temporary residency. So, you cannot opt for any permanent residency with it.
Moreover, the country has a ban on foreigners getting permanent residency without staying for a minimum period. So, you can choose from the temp-rentals or co-working spaces.
Things To Keep In Mind Before Applying For The Japan Digital Nomad Visa
Given that Japan is a dream destination for remote workers, the Japan digital nomad visa is a great way to make that dream come true.
However, you need to keep a few things in mind before applying for the visa. This will ensure you get the visa as soon as possible.
Firstly, keep your documents ready for the application process. Make sure all the documents are prepared correctly with valid information.
Secondly, try getting the CoE before applying for the visa. This certificate will increase your chances of getting the visa easily.
Finally, moving to Japan is a big step. So, be patient and calm while settling into a new culture with a different language.
Remember, even if the visa process is complex, you need to be patient with it. And, by following this guide, you can get it right away.
So, why wait when you can spend your weekends staring at the beautiful cherry blossoms under Mount Fuji? Go on and make your dream a reality!
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