Are you a digital nomad looking forward to working in a beautiful place with beautiful scenery? Do you need a place where you can work effectively without worrying about poor internet connectivity? Then, you need to get a Japan remote work visa. Japan is famous and one of the most visited countries all over the world. It’s a beautiful country with a blossoming economy making it suitable for foreign workers and digital nomads alike. With remote work becoming a global trend, many professionals are exploring the possibility of living in Japan while working for employers or clients elsewhere. Here’s everything you need to know about getting a Japan remote work visa.Â
What is The Japan Remote Work Visa About?
The remote work visa, also known as the digital nomad visa, is the newest of Japan’s visa collection, which was officially available in March this year. This visa allows foreign remote workers and digital nomads to come to Japan and live there for up to six months. Also, foreigners working remotely for foreign companies outside Japan can apply for this visa likewise freelancers and self-employed individuals. Also, with this visa, remote workers can bring in their partners and their kids as they enjoy the beauty of Japan as a family. However, to apply for this visa, you must be a citizen of the countries listed for this visa. Only citizens from about 49 countries can apply for the Japan remote work visa. People from places like the United Kingdom, the United States of America, South Korea, Canada, Australia, Singapore, and others.
Benefits of Living in Japan as a Remote Worker
Japan has a lot to offer remote workers and freelancers. It offers a combination of professional efficiency with personal enrichment. Likewise, Japan has a unique blend of tradition and modernity; Japan is truly a place for remote workers and freelancers to thrive. Here are some perks remote workers get to enjoy:
High-Speed Internet
One of the most important things that a remote worker needs is no other thing than a good internet connection, especially for tech enthusiasts, which is what Japan offers. Japan is known for high-speed and reliable internet connectivity, thanks to the country’s technological advancement. It doesn’t matter if you’re hosting video meetings, uploading large files online, or using the internet generally; you’ll have nothing but a disruption-free experience. Even in smaller towns or rural areas, internet access remains solid, allowing you to stay connected wherever you choose to live.
Vibrant Culture
Culturally, Japan is fully loaded with experiences that you will forever treasure. As a remote worker, you’ll have the chance to explore historical temples and castles during your downtime. You can also explore the Japanese art world by visiting prominent places like Kabuki theater or manga and anime culture. Let’s not forget the top-notch tea parties and seasonal festivals such as cherry blossom celebrations and New Year events. Doing all of these will provide fun ways to connect with the Japanese locals and experience the country’s traditions firsthand.
Public Infrastructure
Being in a new environment can be overwhelming but with Japan’s efficient public infrastructures, you are sure to enjoy lots of convenience. Japan has a seamless public transport system, including the iconic Shinkansen (bullet trains), subways, and buses, known for their punctuality and efficiency. Even though you are staying in smaller cities you have no problems with having access to well-connected transport networks. This makes commuting and weekend exploration easy. If you are an eco-conscious person or like to exercise and all, Japan roads are bike-friendly as well as their pathways that are easy to move around.
Networking Opportunities
One thing remote workers and tech enthusiasts look forward to is the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals. Due to the growing international communities in Japan, there are lots of networking opportunities for remote workers. Cities like Tokyo and Osaka are home to dynamic coworking spaces where you can meet professionals from different fields. Likewise, there are regular workshops, meetups, and tech conferences that you can attend, which can provide you with the leverage for collaboration and skill development. Still, in the light of networking, there are expat groups and online forums that you can join to ensure you don’t feel alone while in Japan.
Safety and Cleanliness
One thing you will always enjoy in Japan is Safety and clean air. Japan is one of the few countries with low crime rates, thus offering a sense of security that you might not get in many parts of the world. It’s so safe to the point that you can walk around late at night or leave your belongings unattended in public spaces without worry. How cool is that? Additionally, the culture of cleanliness is genuinely practiced, with spotless streets, hygienic public facilities, and high standards of sanitation in restaurants and homes. Being in a city as clean as Japan helps you create a stress-free and healthy environment while improving your daily life as you focus on work.
Incredible Cuisine and Nature
It’s understandable that you are in Japan to work, but one thing you should not miss out on is Japan’s food. Japan’s incredible cuisine and natural beauty create an opportunity for an effective work-life balance. The food scene ranges from world-famous sushi and ramen to regional delicacies that are not only delicious but healthy as well. Beyond the dining table, Japan’s natural landscapes, beaches, and breathtaking views are a must-see. Whether you spend the weekends hiking in the Japanese Alps, admiring cherry blossoms in spring, soaking in the hot spring, or relaxing on Okinawa’s pristine beaches, you’re sure to feel rejuvenated.
Eligibility Criteria For a Japan Remote Work Visa
To access the Japan remote work visa, there are some hurdles you must overcome and some requirements you must meet. Here are some of the eligibility criteria for getting this visa:
- You must have evidence of remote employment or a freelance employment contract.
- You must be from the eligible countries listed by the Japanese government.
- You must have proof of income that shows you earn a minimum salary of 10 million JPY.
- You must have a clean criminal record on your police clearance certificate.
Documents Required For The Digital Nomad Visa
The following are the visa requirements for a Japan digital nomad visa:
- A passport with at least 6 months of validity
- Visa application form
- Certificate of eligibility
- Documents showing what you are going to Japan for
- Documents showing proof of funds, such as bank statement
- Police clearance certificate
- Health insurance certificate
- Birth and marriage certificates in cases where you’re bringing your spouse and children
Application Process
The japan remote work visa application requires being thorough and careful since it’s a new visa. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply for it.
Gather all Required Documents
Your documents are an essential part of your application journey, from your visa application form to a valid passport and your proof of remote employment, whether in or outside Japan. Arrange them properly and ensure your details are the same across all your documents.
Meet with the Japanese Consulate
Whether in your home country or current country of residence, meet with the Japanese consulate online or physically, state your mission, and book an appointment for your document submission.
Submit Your Documents
After proper vetting and gathering of the correct documents, you should submit your application forms and documents to the Japanese embassy or consulate in your country of residence.
Wait for Visa Processing
Processing periods vary depending on your mission in Japan and whether your application requires an additional document. However, you can expect a processing time frame of 2-3 weeks. You can keep in touch with your country’s Japanese embassy or consulate, as they will keep you updated on the progress of your application.
Japan Remote Work Visa Application Fees
To apply for this visa, you will need 3,000 JPY, which is about $20, for a single-entry visa and double the price, 6,000 JPY, for a multiple-entry visa.
Challenges and Limitations of Japan Remote Work Visa
Despite being a promising visa, the Japan remote work visa comes with its downside. First of all, let’s that about the validity timeframe; this visa is valid for just six months, and the downside to it is that it's not open for extension or renewal. Due to the fact that this visa is short-term and cannot be renewed, residence cards are not issued to digital nomad visa holders. Also, it comes with restrictions like prevention from opening a bank account and renting long-term accommodation. If you plan on staying in Japan for a longer duration, you might need to switch to another visa option after your digital nomad visa has expired.
Other Visa Options
Since the digital nomad visa cannot be renewed, you can opt for other visa options. Most of these visas generally need a passport and visa application form, you can check the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website. Here are some of the visas available in Japan:
Highly Skilled Professional (HSP) Visa
If you are a highly skilled human resource or professional in your field, you can opt for this visa. It is also for people who have a certain educational background, work history, and income. This visa category aims to attract highly qualified individuals in tech, academia, research, and business.Â
Working Visa
This is the regular work visa, and it is open to quite a number of foreign applicants across different fields. The following are the professionals that can apply for this visa category:
- University professor and assistant
- Artists such as composers, songwriters, artists, sculptors, photographers, and anyone in the media space.
- Newspaper journalists, editors, news and announcers
- Business Managers and directors
- Japan certified Attorneys, judicial scriveners, public accountants, and tax accountants.
- Japan-certified medical professionals such as doctors, dentists, pharmacists, and nurses.
- Researchers
- Engineer/Specialist in humanities/International services(Scientific engineers, IT engineers, foreign language teachers, interpreters, copywriters, designers
- Intra-company Transferee (People transferred to the Japanese branch.
- Skilled Labor like Chefs specializing in the food of a foreign country, pilots, and sports trainers.
- Specified Skilled Worker
Start-Up Visa
The Japan Start-up Visa is for foreign entrepreneurs looking to establish innovative businesses in Japan. With this visa, applicants can get a one-year residency to set up businesses in Japan. This visa is a good opportunity for you as a digital nomad or remote worker to build a viable business in Japan.
Conclusion
If you’re considering staying in the bustling city of Tokyo or the serene countryside of Kyoto, Japan has something in store for you as a remote worker. Ready to take the leap? Start your journey by exploring the remote work visa as you start a new journey in Japan. Prepare the necessary documents and take your time to understand Japan’s legal requirements as you embark on a life-changing adventure.
