Japan's Immigration Services Agency added 15 countries to its digital nomad visa program effective August 15 2026. New eligible nationalities include Brazil, Mexico, South Africa, Turkey, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, Philippines, India, Egypt, Nigeria, Kenya, Colombia, Peru and Chile. The visa permits 90-day stays renewable once per year.
Applicants require proof of remote employment or freelance income of at least 3.5 million yen per year plus valid health insurance. Processing takes 14 to 21 days with a 15000 yen fee. Tokyo, Osaka and Fukuoka have designated co-working hubs offering visa support services.
The original program launched in 2024 with six countries and issued 4200 visas in its first year. Japan aims to attract 10000 digital nomads annually to boost regional economies. Several prefectures offer subsidized housing for visa holders.
What this means for you
Apply online through the official immigration portal and upload income verification documents. Book accommodation that accepts short-term visa holders as many landlords require longer contracts. Register with local city halls within 14 days of arrival for national health insurance access.
Use designated co-working spaces in major cities for networking events and visa extension assistance. Avoid tourist visa runs as re-entry on the nomad visa is restricted to once per calendar year.
The program excludes employment with Japanese companies so confirm your employer allows overseas work. Extensions beyond 180 days require leaving and reapplying from outside Japan.