🇯🇵 Southeast Asia Visa
Visas for Japan
Digital Nomad Visa (Designated Activities)
Visa overview
Japan's Digital Nomad Visa (a Specified Visa under Designated Activities) allows eligible remote workers from 49 designated countries, including the United States, to stay in Japan for up to six months. Applicants must prove annual income of at least JPY 10,000,000 (approximately 65,000 USD). The Ministry of Foreign Affairs states that extensions are not granted under this category. Japan has no simple dedicated retirement visa, making it comparatively less straightforward for traditional retirement migration.
Who it may suit
High-earning remote workers (JPY 10M+ / ~$65,000+ per year) from a designated country who want a single stay of up to six months in Japan and do not need a renewable long-term permit.
Eligibility
Open to nationals of the 49 designated countries, including the US, who can prove annual income of at least JPY 10,000,000. A spouse or child may accompany under a related designation. Extensions are not granted.
Required documents
1) Passport valid for the stay. 2) Proof of annual income of JPY 10,000,000 or more. 3) Documents explaining planned activities and period of stay. 4) Application form and fee. 5) Family documents if a spouse/child accompanies you.
Income requirements
JPY 10,000,000/year (~$65,000)
Stay length
Up to 6 months — no extensions are granted under this category.
Extensions
Not available. To stay longer, exit Japan and re-enter on a fresh visa or a different status, subject to immigration discretion.
Remote work rules
The Digital Nomad Visa authorizes remote work for overseas employers and clients. It does not permit local employment in Japan — that requires a separate work visa arranged by a Japanese employer.
Local employment rules
Local employment not permitted
Tax residency warning
A 6-month stay is under the 183-day tax-residency threshold, so most digital nomads on this visa remain non-resident for Japanese tax. The US-Japan tax treaty helps avoid double taxation for longer stays. This is not tax advice — consult a qualified tax professional.
Application process
1) Confirm your country is on the 49-country list. 2) Gather income proof of JPY 10,000,000+. 3) Apply at a Japanese embassy or consulate (MoFA). 4) Pay the fee and receive a visa for up to 6 months. 5) Enter Japan — no in-country extension is available.
This information is not immigration advice.
Educational use only: Verify with official agencies & qualified professionals. Not legal, tax, financial, or immigration advice.