Japan Extends Digital Nomad Stays to Boost Economy

The Japanese government announced on Friday its intention to implement a new visa system designed to attract foreign talent and remote workers, commonly referred to as “digital nomads,” with the objective of stimulating economic growth and increasing consumption within the country.

This proposed system aims to extend the permissible stay of foreign digital nomads in Japan to up to six months, an enhancement from the current maximum of 90 days under the existing short-term tourist visa, as per the Immigration Services Agency. Eligibility for this extended stay involves securing a designated activities visa.

Applicants for this visa must fulfill specific criteria, such as residing in one of the 49 countries and regions exempt from visa requirements, which also have tax agreements with Japan. Moreover, they are required to demonstrate an annual income exceeding 10 million yen (approximately $68,200). This visa will also facilitate the entry of the applicant’s spouse and children.

The government plans to gather public feedback on this initiative starting Saturday, with the intention of launching the visa system within the fiscal year 2023, which concludes in March.

This strategic move is in response to the growing demand from the business community for the government to be more proactive in attracting digital nomads to Japan. The Immigration Services Agency estimates the global digital nomad population at over 35 million, referencing a survey conducted by a U.S. travel agency.

In June of the previous year, as part of its “new capitalism” growth and redistribution strategy, the government expressed considerations to extend the allowable duration of stay for such individuals.

Justice Minister Ryuji Koizumi highlighted the potential of digital nomads as a catalyst for innovation during a press conference. He acknowledged the international competition to attract these individuals and expressed his hope that they would choose Japan as their destination for work.