Holidaymakers can't seem to get enough of Japan, hailed as the finest country on the globe in the 2023 Readers' Choice Awards. However, up until recently, remote workers yearning to reside and labour on the captivating islands were confined to stays of just 90 days.
This situation is poised for a significant shift as early as next month, as reported by the Japan Times. The publication last week unveiled plans by the Japan Immigration Services Agency (ISA) to introduce a six-month digital nomad visa come late March.
The timing couldn't be more perfect. While Southern Europe saw the initial surge of post-pandemic wanderlust, East Asia is now stepping into the limelight – with Japan taking the lead. This past December witnessed a record-breaking influx of American visitors to Japan, marking a 26.8 per cent increase from December 2019.
The eagerly awaited visa will cater to remote workers earning a minimum of ¥10 million (approximately £52,800) annually, hailing from one of 49 countries and territories, including the United Kingdom, the United States, Australia, and Singapore. Self-employed digital wanderers are eligible to apply, provided they have private health insurance, as noted by the Japan Times.
Japan's digital nomad visa extends its welcome not only to individual travellers but also to their spouses and children. Differing from some alternative schemes, immediate extensions post-visa expiry aren't on offer. Nonetheless, digital nomads have the option to reapply for the visa six months following their departure from Japan.
As Japan's tourism sector witnesses a robust resurgence nearly two years after lifting COVID-19 travel limitations, the visa is set to encourage more prolonged visits and attract the economic contributions of the globe's myriad remote workers. Presently, over 50 countries have introduced digital nomad visas or similar arrangements, encompassing sought-after destinations like Portugal, Costa Rica, and Norway.
The introduction of the visa adds yet another reason for full-time travellers and expatriates to consider Japan as a destination. From the breath-taking natural beauty and creativity found in the Seto Inland Sea to the vibrant urban nightlife and culinary wonders of Tokyo, Japan offers an unparalleled array of experiences for every traveller – whether working remotely or otherwise.
