Japan Digital Nomad Visa 2026: Requirements and Who Can Apply

Japan introduced its digital nomad visa in 2024, and interest has been huge ever since. It lets remote workers live in Japan for up to six months while working for foreign employers or clients. It is not a long stay route, but for anyone who has dreamed of basing themselves in Tokyo, Osaka or Fukuoka for a season, it is the cleanest legal option yet. Here is how it works in 2026.

Quick facts

• Best for: high earning remote workers who want a six month base in Japan
• Income requirement: 10,000,000 JPY per year, roughly 67,000 USD
• Stay length: up to six months, with no extension
• Eligibility: nationals of countries with a tax treaty and visa free entry to Japan
• Insurance: private cover for death, injury and illness for the whole stay
• Reapply: you must wait six months before applying again

What income do you need?

The income bar is one of the highest of any nomad visa. You must show an annual income of at least 10,000,000 JPY, which is around 67,000 USD, based on your most recent year. Your income has to come from outside Japan, so you provide a remote employment contract or client agreements that prove the money is earned abroad. This high threshold is the main reason the visa suits established professionals rather than early career freelancers.

Who is eligible to apply?

You must be a national of a country that has both a tax treaty with Japan and visa free entry. As of 2026 that list runs to more than 50 countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, Singapore, South Korea and Taiwan. You also need private health insurance that covers death, injury and illness for your entire stay, because you are not enrolled in Japan's national health system on this status.

How to apply step by step

You apply through a Japanese embassy or consulate, or through the designated online process where available. Prepare proof of income, your remote work contract, insurance and your passport. Because the visa lasts only six months and cannot be extended, plan your dates carefully. If you want to return, you must wait six months after your stay ends before you can apply for the same status again.

Living in Japan as a nomad

Six months is enough to settle into a real rhythm. Expect world class transport, fast and reliable internet, safe cities and a growing number of coworking spaces in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and Fukuoka. Costs are lower than many people assume outside central Tokyo, especially for food and transport. Because the visa is short, sort out accommodation, a payment method and a mobile plan before you arrive.

Prefer a longer runway in Asia? Compare Japan with our guides to Thailand and other options in our visa and residency library, and see how to keep your income flowing in our guide to getting paid as a digital nomad.