Japan Designated Activities (Digital Nomad, Spouse or Child of Digital Nomad) Visa

Japan’s digital nomad visa is relatively new, coming into existence at the end of March 2024. A key feature of the visa is that holders are not subject to Japanese income tax while staying in the country. However, be aware that it doesn’t entitle you to a Residence Card, which means you won’t be able to open a bank account, sign up for a mobile phone contract, or access government benefits. One other key proviso is that you are not allowed to rent on a standard long-term accommodation contract – so you will be looking for short-term lets, hosted accommodation, or similar. But don’t worry, there are plenty of local options and apps for Airbnb style rentals.

The cost of living in Japan is somewhat lower than the UK. Numbeo says on average it is 22% lower, with rent about half of UK averages – although expect central Tokyo prices to be much more elevated. Crime is very low and the country scores highly on most ‘Quality of Life’ indexes.

Visa fee: 3,000 JPY (around £15)

Length of visa: 6 months. There is no extension possible. If you wish to return you will have to wait 6 months after leaving Japan before reapplying.

Basic Application Requirements:

• Completed visa application form plus a valid passport for the duration of the stay
• Certificate of Eligibility (CoE). If you don’t have this, then the following 3 requirements apply:
• – Documents explaining your planned activities and period of stay
• – Proof of financial capability (e.g. an employment contract or evidence of earnings such as tax return documents). The minimum salary requirement is 10 million JPY (approximately £50,000).
• – Documents proving that you have insurance against death, injury or illness during your stay in Japan (compensation for medical treatment for injury or illness must be JPY 10 million or more).

How to apply? You can get the necessary forms online here – then once completed take those and your documents to either the Japanese Embassy in London or the Japanese Consulate in Edinburgh.