Japan’s gearing up to launch a digital nomad visa for folks from 49 different countries starting next month.
According to Euronews, Japan’s getting ready to roll out this visa, which will let citizens from those 49 countries hang out in Japan for up to six months.
This means you’ll have the chance to soak up all the cool stuff Japan has to offer, from its bustling cities to its stunning natural beauty and iconic pop culture.
Seems like Japan’s really opening its doors wider to folks from around the world, hoping to give its economy a boost and stay competitive on the global stage, especially as its population ages.
The Japan Ministry of Labor even says the country’s currently playing host to over two million foreign workers, which is the most it’s ever had.
Now, what do you need to snag one of these digital nomad visas? Well, here’s the lowdown:
Who’s eligible?
Citizens from 49 countries get the green light for this Japan digital nomad visa. These are the countries that have inked tax agreements with Japan or can waltz into Japan without needing a visa.
We’re talking all the EU member states, plus places like Australia, South Korea, Singapore, and the good ol’ USA.
The visa’s mainly aimed at skilled pros, especially those in the IT game. Whether you’re working for a company outside Japan or flying solo as a freelancer, you’re welcome to apply. And hey, they’re even thinking of extending this to YouTubers making bank from ads!
Now, besides doing your remote gig, you’ll need to show you’re pulling in at least 10 million yen a year (that’s around 1.06 billion Rupiah). Plus, make sure you’ve got some private health insurance sorted.
What’s in it for you?
Well, the perk of snagging this visa is that you’ll get double the time compared to those visa-free short-term visitors, who usually only get 90 days. And unlike those short-term visas, this one actually lets you work while you’re chilling in Japan.
But wait, there’s more! You can also bring along your fam or partner to enjoy the Japan adventure, as long as they’ve got their health insurance game on point.
Now, keep in mind, this visa won’t give you permanent residency, and you won’t be able to set up shop in a long-term rental. Right now, they’re still taking feedback from the public before they officially launch this visa at the end of March.