Remote Work in Japan
Live in Japan while working for a foreign company.
Japan introduced a Digital Nomad visa (Designated Activities visa) in March 2024, opening the door for remote workers to legally live in Japan for up to 6 months. This path covers who qualifies, what the tax implications are, how to get health insurance, and how to set up your day-to-day life.
Your key steps
What to do, in order.
Check if you qualify for the Digital Nomad visa
Requirements: annual income of at least ¥10M (approx. $68,000), private health insurance with at least ¥10M coverage, work for a non-Japanese employer, and citizenship of a visa-exempt country. The visa allows a 6-month stay, extendable once.
Understand tax obligations
If you stay less than 183 days in a calendar year, you're generally not a Japanese tax resident and your foreign income isn't taxed in Japan. Staying longer may trigger tax residency. Consult a tax professional for your specific situation.
Sort out health insurance
The Digital Nomad visa requires private health insurance — you are not eligible for Japan's National Health Insurance on this visa. Make sure your policy covers Japan and has at least ¥10M in coverage. Travel insurance policies often don't qualify.
Find suitable housing
Short-term furnished apartments, monthly mansions, and co-living spaces are the most practical options. Traditional rental contracts require a guarantor and proof of stable income, making them harder for nomads. Services like Sakura House, Oak House, or Airbnb monthly deals work well.
Set up your remote work logistics
Japan has excellent co-working spaces in all major cities. Get a SIM with good data (Rakuten Mobile, IIJmio). Check your timezone overlap with your team. Consider a Japanese bank account if you'll be staying long-term.
Useful tools
Tools for this path.
Japan Path Finder
MVPConfirm this is the right path for you.
Moving Budget Calculator
Coming soonEstimate costs for a 3–6 month stay.
FAQ
Common questions.
Is the Digital Nomad visa the only option?
No — if you stay less than 90 days, many nationalities can enter visa-free as tourists (and technically work remotely, though the legal grey area is worth understanding). The Digital Nomad visa is for legally documented longer stays.
Can I bring my family on the Digital Nomad visa?
Yes — family members (spouse and children) can accompany you on a special dependent status under the same Digital Nomad visa framework, provided they also meet the income and insurance requirements.
What happens if I want to stay longer than 6 months?
The Digital Nomad visa can be extended once, giving you up to 12 months. After that, you'd need to transition to another visa type — a work visa, spouse visa, or another appropriate category — if you want to remain legally.
yuzu.help provides general guidance only. Verify important details with official sources or a qualified professional.
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