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Japan

Designated Activities (Digital Nomad)

Asia & Pacific

Last verified 26 May 2026

About this visa & living in Japan

Japan's Designated Activities digital nomad route gives high-earning remote workers six months in one of the world's most fascinating countries. Tokyo, Kyoto and Fukuoka offer wildly different bases, food culture is unmatched, public transport is world class and safety is essentially absolute. The visa is short and the income threshold is high, but for a one-time deep-dive into Japanese life it's hard to beat.

Visa at a glance

Minimum income: $5,600 / month
Length of stay: 6 months
Processing time: 4 weeks
Application fee: Government fee ~$22 single-entry / ~$43 multi-entry (¥3,000 / ¥6,000). Japan is raising all visa issuance fees ~5× from 1 Jul 2026 (~$93 / ~$186); confirm which rate applies at time of filing.
Tax treatment: Tax free / no local tax
Family members: Allowed
Renewable: No
Path to residency: No
Apostille required: Yes
Background check: Required
Where to apply: From abroad only
Local bank account: Can typically open one
Healthcare: Insurance required
Savings requirement: No lump-sum requirement
Cost of living: ExpensiveGeneral affordability for a single nomad.
Bureaucracy: ●●●●●Heavy paperwork
Nationality restrictions: Visa-exempt countries with a tax treaty with Japan

Required documents

Passport from one of 49 eligible countries (US, UK, EU, AU, etc.)
Proof of ¥10M+ annual income
Employment with foreign company or self-employment
Private health insurance covering ¥10M+ medical and ¥5M+ death/disability
Application form and CV

Things to know

Status of stay is 'Designated Activities' — not a regular work visa.
Open only to nationals of countries that are both visa-exempt for Japan and have a tax treaty with Japan (≈49 countries).
Cannot lead to PR or convert to other visa categories.
Must wait 6 months between visas.

Visit official source

Always verify current requirements on the official government source.

Frequently asked questions

What is the minimum income requirement for the Japan Designated Activities (Digital Nomad)?

The Designated Activities (Digital Nomad) requires applicants to show a monthly income of roughly $5,600 per month. This can usually be proven via employment contracts, freelance client agreements, or bank statements.

How long can I stay in Japan on this visa?

You can stay for 6 months. The visa is not renewable, so you will need to leave after the initial period and reapply if you wish to return.

How long does the application process take?

Processing typically takes 4 weeks. We recommend applying well in advance of your planned move, as embassy workloads and seasonal spikes can cause delays.

Where do I apply for the Designated Activities (Digital Nomad)?

You must apply from outside Japan, usually at a consulate or embassy in your home country.

Can I bring my family on the Designated Activities (Digital Nomad)?

Yes — spouses and dependent children are generally allowed to accompany you, though you may need to prove additional income or provide family relationship documents.

Will I have to pay local taxes in Japan?

Foreign-source remote income is generally exempt from local income tax while on this visa. You should still confirm your home-country tax obligations.

Is the Designated Activities (Digital Nomad) renewable?

No, this visa is not renewable. After it expires you must leave Japan and, if eligible, you may be able to reapply after a required absence.

Does the Designated Activities (Digital Nomad) lead to permanent residency or citizenship?

No, the Designated Activities (Digital Nomad) is a temporary permit and does not lead to permanent residency or citizenship in Japan.

What documents do I need to apply?

Typical requirements include: Passport from one of 49 eligible countries (US, UK, EU, AU, etc.); Proof of ¥10M+ annual income; Employment with foreign company or self-employment; Private health insurance covering ¥10M+ medical and ¥5M+ death/disability; Application form and CV. Always check the official source for the latest list.