Are you considering working from Tokyo? Maybe you’re looking for something a little calmer in Kyoto? Or perhaps the beaches and blue waters of Okinawa are calling your name? Japan offers a wide range of options for remote work, and to support digital nomads looking to stay longer, the country has introduced a dedicated digital nomad visa that allows for stays beyond a typical tourist entry.
It’s called the Designated Activities visa. This visa allows remote professionals to legally stay and work remotely in the country, albeit for a shorter period than most digital nomad visas around the world.
That said, here’s everything you need to know about the Designated Activities (digital nomad) visa.
In this Japan digital nomad visa guide
What exactly is the Designated Activities visa (Japan digital nomad visa)?
The Designated Activities (digital nomad) visa, introduced in 2024, allows remote professionals from eligible countries, such as the United Kingdom, the United States and nations from the EU, to live and work online in Japan for a limited period.
It allows digital nomads to stay in Japan and continue working without relying on a tourist visa, giving them the chance to experience the culture and explore the country at their own pace, or even settle in one place to fully immerse themselves.
Eligibility for Japan's digital nomad visa
There are several requirements that must be met to be eligible for Japan’s digital nomad visa. You must work online for a company based outside Japan or be a freelancer with clients outside the country.
Additionally, you need to be from an eligible country, earn at least 10 million JPY (around £46,500 as of April 2026) per year and have international health insurance in place for the duration of your stay.
What do you need to apply?
To apply for Japan’s Designated Activities (digital nomad) Visa, you must submit several key documents. These include a completed visa application form with a recent passport photo and a valid passport. You may also need to provide a Certificate of Eligibility, which can exempt some additional requirements. If not, you must submit documents outlining your planned activities and length of stay in Japan.
You are required to prove an annual income of at least JPY 10 million through documents such as a tax certificate, income statement or employment or business contracts.
Finally, you must show proof of insurance covering death, injury or illness during your stay, with medical coverage of at least JPY 10 million. Acceptable proof includes an insurance certificate, policy summary and any supporting documents for additional coverage.
How to apply for the Designated Activities (digital nomad) visa
The application form for the South Korea digital nomad visa can be found directly through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan official page:
Complete the visa application form
Ensure all required information is filled in accurately.- Collect all necessary documents
These include your passport, proof of employment, income verification and health insurance. Submit your application
You will need submit the application in person at your nearest Embassy of Japan or consulate. A pre-arranged meeting will need be organised. You can also use an authorised visa agent.
The Japan digital nomad visa costs £16 (around USD$21) for single entry or £31 (around USD$41) for multiple entries, per Get Golden Visa. It can take up to 30 working days to be processed. Dependents of the main applicant can apply for the Designated Activities (Digital Nomad) Visa too.
How long can you stay, and can the visa be renewed?
The Japan digital nomad visa allows remote professionals to stay in the country for up to six months. No extensions are permitted using this visa.
What about paying taxes in Japan?
As a remote professional on Japan’s Designated Activities visa, you are generally not subject to Japanese income tax on earnings sourced from outside Japan. Since the visa permits a stay of up to six months and cannot be extended beyond this period, you are unlikely to meet the threshold for tax residency, which typically requires more than 183 days in a calendar year.
Tax regulations can be complex and subject to change, so it’s recommended to consult a qualified tax advisor to ensure you remain fully compliant with your specific situation.
Do you even need a visa?
If your trip to Japan is a short one, you likely won’t need a visa. Citizens from countries such as the US, UK, Canada and most of the EU can usually stay as tourists for up to 90 days.
However, if you plan to spend several months living in Japan while working remotely, a standard tourist stay won’t be suitable. That’s where the Japan digital nomad visa comes in. It is designed for remote professionals, allowing you to live in Japan for up to six months while continuing to work for a company or clients based outside the country.
Further assistance
If you have any questions or need assistance with the visa application process, you can reach out to the Japanese embassy or consulate in your country. Additionally, working with a visa agent can help ensure your documents are properly prepared, making the application process smoother.
For detailed updates or changes in the visa process, check the official Ministry of Foreign Affairs for Japan website or contact your local embassy.
