Explore Japan While You Work: The New Digital Nomad Visa Explained with Q&A
In March 2024 Japanese Laws were amended to create a Digital Nomad Visa.
The objective of the visa is to allow a person to stay in Japan for a maximum of six months while engaging in international remote work.
Here are some answers to the frequently asked questions about this visa:
Q: What is Japan’s Digital Nomad Visa?
A: Japan’s Digital Nomad Visa is a new program allowing international remote workers to live and work in Japan.
The visa holder must work for a foreign corporation, as the visa does not allow a person to engage in work activities within Japan.
Q: What is the maximum period of stay with the Digital Nomad Visa?
A: Currently Japan is issuing these visas for up to six months.
Q: Who is eligible for the Digital Nomad Visa?
A: The visa is available to nationals from 49 countries, including Brazil, Chile, Mexico, Spain, and Uruguay.
Q: Can visa holders bring their family members with them?
A: Generally speaking, yes. Japan can provide visas for spouses and children of Digital Nomads Visa holders. Nevertheless, one must check the list of nationalities accepted to apply for the spouse and children visa.
Q: What are the income requirements for this visa?
A: The applicant must prove they have an annual income of 10 million yen or more.
(tax payment certificate, income certificate, employment contract, etc. are examples of documents that can serve as proof of income).
Q: What are other important requirements for the visa?
A: One important requirement is the need to provide a document showing that the applicant has health insurance with coverage of at least 10 million yen for the duration of their stay in Japan.
※The health insurance must cover injuries, illness, and death.
※Digital Nomads cannot enroll in Japan's public health insurance.
Q: Are Digital Nomads considered residents?
A: No. People who obtain the Digital Nomad Visa are not considered residents of Japan. Therefore, a resident card will not be issued.
Q: Can a Digital Nomad live in different cities in Japan during the visa validity?
A: Yes, there is no restriction or process to follow to move to a different city.
Q: Can Digital Nomads travel in and out of Japan during the visa validity?
A: Yes. When traveling outside Japan, the visa holder must fill out a re-entry document that states the desire to re-enter Japan under the same status. The visa holder can re-enter and stay in Japan within the visa validity period.
Q: Is the Digital Nomad Visa renewable?
A: After the visa expires, the person must leave Japan for at least 6 months. After that period, the person can apply for another Digital Nomad Visa.
Q: What are other considerations to take into account before applying for a Digital Nomad Visa?
A: Depending on international treaties and each specific situation, Digital Nomads can be exempt from paying income tax in Japan.
It is possible to use PCs and smartphones bought outside Japan as long as these do not emit radio waves.
The information contained in this website is for general information purposes only. The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. If you require further legal advice, contact us at info@tnvlaw.com
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