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Japan

Asia

Japan combines ultra-modern megacities like Tokyo and Osaka with rich culture, excellent infrastructure and very low street crime, making it a popular long-stay destination for remote workers, students and professionals. Many nationalities can enter visa-free for up to 90 days as short-term visitors, and Japan now also offers an official Digital Nomad visa for up to six months for qualifying remote workers from visa-exempt countries. Longer stays for work or study rely on status-of-residence categories such as Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services, Highly Skilled Professional and student visas.

6
Visa Types
90
Nationalities visa-free
🪪Your Passport:

Visa requirements vary by nationality

🎫 Available Visa Types

⭐Recommended for Digital Nomads
Tourist

Short-term stay (visa exemption up to 90 days)

Visa-exempt short-term stay for nationals of countries and regions that have reciprocal visa exemption arrangements with Japan, allowing tourism, visiting friends and relatives and certain business activities without remuneration for up to 90 days.

90 days
Duration
¥0
<$1 fee

✅ Key Benefits

✓No consular visa application is needed for many nationalities, making short visits relatively simple.
✓Commonly used by tourists, conference attendees and remote workers who only stay for a few weeks or months.
✓Fits well with scouting trips before committing to a longer-term stay or work or study visa.
📋 Requirements (4)
  • •Passport from a country or region listed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan as visa-exempt for short-term stay.
  • •Intended stay of up to 90 days for tourism, visiting friends or relatives or short business trips without remunerated activities in Japan.
  • •Return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds and accommodation may be requested at the border.
  • •No intention to work in Japan for Japanese employers or to stay beyond the authorised period.
📝 Application Process
Embassy Required⏱ Immigration officers decide admission at the border. For most straightforward travellers from visa-exempt countries this is completed in a few minutes at arrival immigration.
  1. 1Confirm on the official Ministry of Foreign Affairs website that your nationality is covered by Japan visa exemption for short-term stay.
  2. 2Travel to Japan with a valid passport and, if asked, present proof of accommodation, funds and onward travel to immigration on arrival.
  3. 3Receive permission for a short-term stay, usually up to 90 days, recorded in your passport or electronically.
  4. 4Respect the authorised period of stay and refrain from remunerative activities while in Japan on this status.
Apply Online

💡 Pro Tips

  • •Carry a printed or easily accessible copy of your accommodation bookings and onward travel to show immigration if requested.
  • •If you expect to spend long periods in Japan each year, explore long-term visa options rather than relying solely on repeat short-term stays.
⭐Recommended for Digital Nomads
Special Program

Digital Nomad visa (Designated Activities)

Specified visa under the Designated Activities category for digital nomads, allowing remote work for foreign employers or clients from within Japan for a period of up to six months without the possibility of extension.

180 days
Duration
¥3,000
$20 fee

💰 Income Requirement

Minimum $10,000,000/year

Alternative: Instead of employment in Japan, you must show stable foreign sourced income of at least JPY 10,000,000 per year or the equivalent and remote work arrangements with non Japanese employers or clients. The exact documentation for income is set out in embassy and consular checklists.

✅ Key Benefits

✓Provides an explicit legal framework for remote work from Japan for up to six months, avoiding grey areas around visitor status.
✓Allows eligible digital nomads to bring spouses and children under related designated activities frameworks.
✓Gives more time in Japan than the standard 90 day short-term stay without requiring a Japanese employer.
📋 Requirements (5)
  • •Citizenship of a country that is visa-exempt for short-term stays in Japan, as listed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
  • •Remote work for foreign employers or clients outside Japan, with no direct employment with Japanese entities.
  • •Annual income of at least JPY 10 million or higher equivalent in foreign currency, supported by bank statements, contracts or tax returns.
  • •Private health insurance covering medical and repatriation costs of at least JPY 10 million for the full period of stay.
  • •Clean criminal record and compliance with any additional criteria specified by the Japanese embassy or consulate.
📝 Application Process
Embassy Required⏱ Consular information indicates that Digital Nomad visa applications normally take at least several working days after submission of a complete application, but total processing time can vary depending on the mission and whether additional checks are required.
  1. 1Confirm that your nationality is eligible for the Digital Nomad visa and that you meet the income and insurance thresholds as published by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Japanese embassies.
  2. 2Collect documentation showing your remote work arrangements, annual income of at least JPY 10 million and private health insurance with coverage of at least JPY 10 million.
  3. 3Submit a Digital Nomad visa application to a Japanese embassy or consulate, following their checklist and paying the applicable visa fee.
  4. 4If approved, receive a single-entry visa, travel to Japan within its validity and receive a six month period of stay on entry. No extension is currently available for this status.
Apply Online

💡 Pro Tips

  • •Plan your timing carefully so that the six month period aligns with your remote work and housing plans.
  • •Keep documentation of your remote income and insurance accessible during your stay in case of checks when re-entering or in future applications.

Short-term stay visa / JAPAN eVISA (tourism)

TouristPopular

Single-entry short-term stay visa for tourism for nationals who require a visa to visit Japan, including those who can apply through the JAPAN eVISA system where available.

90d
Duration
¥3,000
$20 fee
📍Apply: Embassy
⏱Processing times vary by embassy and by season, but the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and individual missions generally advise allowing at least several days to a few weeks from submission to decision.
🔄No extension
View full details
💰 Cost Breakdown
JPYUSD
Required
Short-term stay visa feeAccording to Ministry of Foreign Affairs visa fee tables, a typical single-entry short-term visa fee is around JPY 3,000, but exact fees and exemptions depend on nationality and consulate.
¥3,000$20
Additional (estimated)
Visa centre service chargesWhen applying via a visa centre, additional service fees may apply on top of the official visa fee.
¥0<$1
Required Total
¥3,000$20
💱1 USD = 150 JPY•Updated Nov 28, 2025
💡 Costs may vary. Additional costs are estimates and may not all apply to your situation. Always verify current fees with official sources.

📋 Requirements

  • •Passport from a country or region that is not visa-exempt for Japan, or a traveller who does not meet visa exemption conditions.
  • •Completed short-term stay visa application form, photographs and itinerary or invitation documents as specified by the Japanese mission.
  • •Evidence of financial capacity to cover the trip and strong ties to the country of residence.
  • •For JAPAN eVISA where available, online pre-application and use of the official Ministry of Foreign Affairs eVISA website only.

📝 Application Steps

  1. 1Check the official Ministry of Foreign Affairs and embassy websites to confirm whether you must apply for a short-term stay visa and whether JAPAN eVISA is available for your nationality and location.
  2. 2Prepare the required documents such as passports, photos, financial evidence, schedules and, if needed, letters of guarantee or invitation.
  3. 3Submit your application either online via JAPAN eVISA or in person or by mail to a Japanese embassy or consulate following their instructions.
  4. 4Once approved, receive an electronic or physical visa, then travel to Japan and present your passport and visa to immigration to receive your authorised short-term stay.

⚠️ Restrictions

  • •Not all nationalities and locations are covered by JAPAN eVISA; many still require traditional paper applications.
  • •Does not allow long-term residence or work in Japan.

💡 Tips

  • •Use only the official Ministry of Foreign Affairs eVISA portal or listed visa centres to avoid fraudulent websites.
  • •Apply well before travel, especially during peak tourism seasons when appointment slots can be scarce.

Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International Services

WorkPopular

Core work visa status for many foreign professionals in Japan, covering roles such as IT engineers, designers, translators, consultants and other specialised or international service positions.

365d
Duration
¥3,000
$20 fee
📍Apply: Embassy
⏱Overall timelines depend on both the Certificate of Eligibility process in Japan and consular processing. It is common for the process to take several weeks to a few months from job offer to arrival.
🔄Extendable +365d
View full details
💰 Cost Breakdown
JPYUSD
Required
Work visa feeSingle-entry work visa fees are typically around JPY 3,000, with higher fees for multiple-entry visas, subject to nationality based exemptions.
¥3,000$20
Additional (estimated)
Certificate of Eligibility preparation and legal supportEmployers often use immigration professionals to prepare the Certificate of Eligibility and supporting documentation.
¥0<$1
Required Total
¥3,000$20
💱1 USD = 150 JPY•Updated Nov 28, 2025
💡 Costs may vary. Additional costs are estimates and may not all apply to your situation. Always verify current fees with official sources.

📋 Requirements

  • •Job offer from a Japanese company or organisation in a qualifying professional or international services role.
  • •Educational background, such as a university degree, or professional experience that meets Immigration Services Agency criteria for the role.
  • •Certificate of Eligibility issued in Japan by the regional immigration bureau, usually arranged by the employer.
  • •Compliance with Japanese labour law and immigration requirements, including correct salary and working conditions.

📝 Application Steps

  1. 1Secure a job offer from a Japanese employer willing and authorised to sponsor work visas.
  2. 2The employer applies to the immigration bureau in Japan for a Certificate of Eligibility with details of your role, salary and qualifications.
  3. 3Once the Certificate of Eligibility is issued, submit a visa application at a Japanese embassy or consulate, including your passport, photos and the certificate.
  4. 4After your visa is granted, travel to Japan, receive your residence card and start work within the conditions of your status.

⚠️ Restrictions

  • •Tied to a specific employer and role; changing employers or job content may require new permission.
  • •Application and documentation are detailed and must precisely match Japanese immigration standards.
  • •Losing your job without quickly finding a new sponsor can put your status at risk.

💡 Tips

  • •Keep copies of all Certificates of Eligibility, contracts and pay slips, as they may be needed for future renewals or status changes.
  • •If you plan to change jobs, consult official immigration guidance or a qualified specialist before making commitments.

Highly Skilled Professional (HSP) visa

Work

Preferential work and residence status for highly skilled foreign professionals who meet a points based threshold under Japanese immigration law, offering longer periods of stay and faster access to permanent residence.

365d
Duration
¥3,000
$20 fee
📍Apply: Embassy
⏱The timing is similar to other work visas but may involve more detailed checks due to the higher level status. In practice, many Highly Skilled Professional cases are processed over several weeks to a few months from complete submission.
🔄Extendable +365d
View full details
💰 Cost Breakdown
JPYUSD
Required
Highly Skilled Professional visa feeVisa fees are similar to other work visas, with single-entry fees typically around JPY 3,000, but actual amounts depend on nationality and current fee tables.
¥3,000$20
Additional (estimated)
Legal and relocation supportMany Highly Skilled Professional applicants use corporate immigration and relocation services, especially when transferring at senior or specialised levels.
¥0<$1
Required Total
¥3,000$20
💱1 USD = 150 JPY•Updated Nov 28, 2025
💡 Costs may vary. Additional costs are estimates and may not all apply to your situation. Always verify current fees with official sources.

📋 Requirements

  • •Job offer or professional role in Japan that fits one of the Highly Skilled Professional categories, such as advanced academic research, specialised technical activities or advanced business management.
  • •Sufficient points under the official Highly Skilled Professional points system, based on education, professional background, income level, research achievements and other factors.
  • •Certificate of Eligibility issued specifying Highly Skilled Professional status.
  • •Compliance with all conditions set out by the Immigration Services Agency of Japan.

📝 Application Steps

  1. 1Work with your prospective employer or host institution to confirm that your role and profile can qualify under the Highly Skilled Professional points system.
  2. 2The employer or institution prepares and submits a Certificate of Eligibility application indicating your Highly Skilled Professional category and points.
  3. 3Once approved, file a visa application at a Japanese embassy or consulate using the Certificate of Eligibility and required supporting documents.
  4. 4Upon arrival in Japan, receive your Highly Skilled Professional residence status and follow any special conditions or reporting duties attached to it.

⚠️ Restrictions

  • •Access is limited to applicants who can meet formal points thresholds and maintain them over time.
  • •Documentation requirements are heavier than for standard work visas and may change as policy evolves.

💡 Tips

  • •Keep a detailed record of your income, achievements and role changes to ensure you maintain eligibility at renewals.
  • •Coordinate closely with human resources and legal teams if your role, employer or compensation structure changes.

Student visa (college, university and language schools)

Education

Status of residence for foreign students enrolled in recognised Japanese universities, colleges and language schools for medium and long term study.

365d
Duration
¥0
<$1 fee
📍Apply: Embassy
⏱From submission of documents to the school until visa issuance, the process may take several months. The embassy portion alone is often completed in a few weeks once the Certificate of Eligibility is issued.
🔄Extendable +365d
View full details
💰 Cost Breakdown
JPYUSD
Required
Student visa feeMany nationalities pay around JPY 0 to 3,000 for a student visa depending on fee tables and exemptions. The main costs are usually tuition and living expenses rather than the visa fee itself.
¥0<$1
Additional (estimated)
School admission and tuition feesUniversities and language schools charge their own tuition and enrolment fees, which are separate from the visa fee.
¥0<$1
Required Total
¥0<$1
💱1 USD = 150 JPY•Updated Nov 28, 2025
💡 Costs may vary. Additional costs are estimates and may not all apply to your situation. Always verify current fees with official sources.

📋 Requirements

  • •Formal admission to a recognised Japanese educational institution and receipt of an official admission or enrolment letter.
  • •Certificate of Eligibility for Student status issued by the immigration bureau, usually arranged through the school.
  • •Proof of financial resources to cover tuition and living expenses for at least the first year of study.
  • •Valid passport and compliance with health, character and procedural requirements set by the embassy or consulate.

📝 Application Steps

  1. 1Apply to a recognised Japanese school, language institute or university and obtain an admission letter.
  2. 2The institution applies for a Certificate of Eligibility for Student status on your behalf with the immigration bureau.
  3. 3Once the Certificate of Eligibility is issued, submit a student visa application at a Japanese embassy or consulate with the certificate, passport, photos and any additional requested documents.
  4. 4After the visa is granted, travel to Japan, receive your residence card and register appropriately with your local municipality and health insurance system.

⚠️ Restrictions

  • •Limited work rights and expectations of full-time study and attendance.
  • •Financial requirements can be significant due to tuition and living costs in major Japanese cities.

💡 Tips

  • •Use official Study in Japan guidance and your institution international office for up to date rules on work permits and visa renewals.
  • •Track academic performance and attendance carefully to avoid putting your immigration status at risk.

📊 Quick Facts

CapitalTokyo
CurrencyJPY (Japanese yen)
LanguageJapanese
TimezoneUTC+9
Last UpdatedNov 30, 2025

🔗 Official Resources

Immigration BureauEmbassy Website

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Does Japan have a digital nomad visa
Yes. Japan introduced an official Digital Nomad visa under the Designated Activities status. It allows eligible nationals from visa-exempt countries to live in Japan for up to six months while working remotely for foreign employers or clients, provided they meet a relatively high income requirement and hold private health insurance with coverage of at least JPY 10 million.
How long can I stay in Japan visa-free as a tourist
Nationals of countries and regions with reciprocal visa exemption arrangements can usually stay in Japan for up to 90 days as short-term visitors. This covers tourism, visiting friends and relatives and certain business activities without remuneration. The exact period of stay is recorded by immigration on arrival.
Can I work remotely while visiting Japan on a short-term stay
Short-term stay status is officially defined as not including remunerative activities in Japan. Many people do some remote work for foreign employers while visiting, but there is no dedicated legal framework for this under the basic visitor status and it should be approached cautiously. The Digital Nomad visa is the more appropriate option for people who want explicit permission to work remotely from Japan for several months.
Are border runs a safe way to stay long term in Japan
Relying on repeated short-term stay entries to remain in Japan long term is risky. Immigration officers can see your travel history, may issue shorter periods of stay or even refuse entry if they believe you are effectively living in Japan without appropriate status. For medium- or long-term plans, categories such as Digital Nomad, work or student statuses are safer than border runs.
What are the basic requirements for the Japan Digital Nomad visa
According to official consular guidance, Digital Nomad visa applicants must be citizens of visa-exempt countries, intend to work remotely for foreign employers or clients, demonstrate annual income of at least JPY 10,000,000 and hold private health insurance with coverage of at least JPY 10 million for the entire stay. Spouses and children can often be included under related designated activities statuses.
Do I need health insurance to visit or live in Japan
For short-term visitors, health insurance is not always checked at the border, but it is strongly recommended because medical costs in Japan can be significant. Digital Nomad visa holders must show private insurance with a high coverage level, and mid- and long-term residents are generally expected to join the Japanese public health insurance system.
Is it easy to open a bank account in Japan as a foreigner
Opening a full Japanese bank account is usually difficult for short-term visitors and much easier for mid- or long-term residents with a residence card, local address and sometimes an Individual Number. Many digital nomads rely on international and multi-currency accounts until they obtain a resident status that meets Japanese banks requirements.
Where can I find official information about Japanese visa types
The most reliable sources are the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan visa pages, the Immigration Services Agency of Japan, official JAPAN eVISA information and the websites of Japanese embassies and consulates. These sources publish up to date lists of visa-exempt countries, visa categories, digital nomad rules, points systems for highly skilled professionals and fee schedules.
⚠️

Important Disclaimer

Visa requirements can change frequently. This information is provided for general guidance only and should not be considered legal advice. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or immigration authorities before making travel plans. Last updated: November 30, 2025

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