At a glance
- On 2 February 2024, the Japanese Government announced a new scheme to grant ‘designated activities’ visas to so-called digital nomads.
- Currently, there is no status of residence designed for digital nomads.
- There are set conditions which must be met for obtaining this new visa.
- The Japanese government will begin accepting visas after it amends the relevant ministerial ordinances and public notices regarding this new visa system.
On 2 February 2024, the Japanese government announced a new scheme to grant ‘designated activities’ visas to so-called digital nomads.
Currently, there is no status of residence designed for digital nomads. If the purpose of their entry to Japan is for a business trip or conference, they can enter on a ‘temporary visitor’ status, but their stay is limited to up to 90 days. However, if they obtain a ‘designated activities’ visa, they can stay in Japan for up to 6 months.
The requirements for a digital nomad to obtain a ‘designated activities’ visa are as follows:
- nationals of countries or regions that have concluded tax treaties with Japan (eg the US the UK, Australia, South Korea, Taiwan);
- annual income of JPY10 million or more; and
- private medical insurance.
The Japanese government will amend the relevant ministerial ordinances and public notices regarding this new visa system by the end of March 2024, and will begin accepting applications.
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