In recent years, the rise of technology and the diversification of work styles have led to an increase in “digital nomads,” individuals who work remotely without being tied to a specific location. In response to this trend, Japan has introduced a new “Digital Nomad Visa.” This blog post will provide an easy-to-understand explanation of the Digital Nomad Visa, including its overview, application process, requirements, and key considerations.

 

 

What is the Digital Nomad Visa?

 

The Digital Nomad Visa is a new residency status that allows IT-based remote workers to stay and work in Japan for a specified period. This visa is classified under “Designated Activities (Notification No. 53)” and is intended for freelancers or remote workers employed by foreign companies.

 

 

Requirements

 

To apply for the Digital Nomad Visa, the following requirements must be met:

1. Occupational Requirements:
You must be an IT-based remote worker, either employed by a foreign company or working as a freelancer.

2. Nationality Requirements:
You must be a national of a visa-exempt country and a country or region with which Japan has a tax treaty.
A following total of 49 countries and regions are eligible.

1. Iceland
2. Ireland
3. United States
4. United Arab Emirates
5. United Kingdom
6. Israel
7. Italy
8. Indonesia
9. Uruguay
10. Estonia
11. Australia
12. Austria
13. Netherlands
14. Qatar
15. Canada
16. Croatia
17. Singapore
18. Switzerland
19. Sweden
20. Spain
21. Slovakia
22. Slovenia
23. Serbia
24. Thailand
25. Czech Republic
26. Chile
27. Denmark
28. Germany
29. Turkey
30. New Zealand
31. Norway
32. Hungary
33. Finland
34. France
35. Brazil
36. Bulgaria
37. Brunei
38. Belgium
39. Poland
40. Portugal
41. Malaysia
42. Mexico
43. Latvia
44. Lithuania
45. Romania
46. Luxembourg
47. South Korea
48. Hong Kong
49. Taiwan

 

 

3. Income Requirements:
At the time of application, your annual income must be at least 10 million yen. To prove your income, you will need to submit a tax certificate or income certificate issued in the country where you are employed.

 

4. Health Insurance:
You must be enrolled in private health insurance that covers death, injury, or illness during your intended stay in Japan.

 

 

Residency Period and Renewal

 

Residency Period

The maximum duration of stay under the Digital Nomad Visa is six months. If your spouse or children accompany you, they will also receive a six-month residency period under “Designated Activities (Notification No. 54).”

Renewal

The visa cannot be renewed. After the six-month stay, you must leave Japan. However, you can apply for the Digital Nomad Visa again and return to Japan after six months.

 

 

 Required Documents

• Certificate of Eligibility (COE) Application Form
•  Documents explaining the applicant’s planned activities during their stay
•  Tax certificate or income certificate proving the applicant’s annual income (10 million yen or more)
•  Copy of the private health insurance policy and terms

 

 

Application Process

 

The application process involves the following steps:

1. Prepare the Required Documents:
   Gather all necessary documents.
2. Short-Term Visit to Japan:
   Enter Japan with a short-term visa for tourism or other purposes.
3. Apply for the Certificate of Eligibility (COE):
   Submit an application for the Certificate of Eligibility (COE) at the Immigration Services Agency office that has jurisdiction over the address where you are staying. If approved, a COE will be issued.

 

 

Accompanying Family Members

 

Your spouse and children can also stay with you under “Designated Activities (Notification No. 54)” for six months. They must meet the same application process and requirements.

 

 

Activities and Restrictions During Stay

 

The activities permitted under the Digital Nomad Visa are primarily limited to those specified in the application. If you enter into a new employment contract within Japan, you will need to apply for a change of status to a visa such as “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services.”

 

 

Entry and Re-entry During Stay

 

You can temporarily leave Japan and re-enter during your stay. However, it is recommended to obtain a re-entry permit when you leave.

 

 

Challenges in Securing Housing

 

The Digital Nomad Visa does not come with a Residence Card, which may make it difficult to secure long-term rental housing. The six-month stay period may also be considered too short for long-term rental contracts, and many landlords may be reluctant to sign leases. While hotel stays or short-term rental properties are possible, these options may be costly.

 

 

Health Insurance Coverage

 

As those staying under the Digital Nomad Visa are not considered “mid- to long-term residents,” they cannot enroll in Japan’s public health insurance. Therefore, enrolling in private health insurance is mandatory for the visa application. It is important to check the coverage of the insurance you choose, as medical expenses in Japan can be high. Selecting a policy with adequate coverage is essential.

 

 

Conclusion

 

The Digital Nomad Visa offers a new opportunity for those who wish to work remotely in Japan. However, as the system is still new, there are some challenges, such as the short residency period and the lack of a Residence Card. If you are considering applying, it is crucial to fully understand these points and prepare accordingly.