Digital Nomad Visa is about to arrive in Japan! The new residency status is expected to be introduced in 2026, and what companies should prepare for now.

As of November 2025, the government and ruling party are said to be almost on the same track.The "Digital Nomad Visa" (official name yet to be determined) will be introduced in the spring and summer of 2026.This is a revolutionary status that will allow remote work in Japan, which is prohibited under a tourist visa. This is a groundbreaking status that will allow remote work, which is prohibited under a tourist visa, to be done in Japan with impunity.

Main requirements known at this time (November 2025 projected version)

• Annual income: 10 million yen or more (some reports suggest 8 million yen)
• Countries covered: Approximately 50 countries including the U.S., Canada, Australia, the U.K., EU countries, Singapore, and South Korea (reciprocity)
• Maximum stay: 6 months + up to 1 year with 6 month renewals
• No work: No remuneration from Japanese companies is allowed (only remote work from overseas companies).
• Social Insurance: Not covered by Japanese National Health Insurance (private overseas travel insurance required)

Three key points that companies should prepare now

1. Establishment of work rules to accommodate digital nomads It is highly likely that provisions such as "a dedicated space for remote work will be provided while in Japan" will be required.
2. Dealing with Tax Risks There is a risk of Japanese taxation after 183 days. Prior consultation with the tax office is recommended.
3. Acceptance performance is used for "global company appeal" A "ranking of the best companies to work for" from the perspective of digital nomads will surely appear from 2026 onward.

In fact, after the introduction of the digital nomad visa in Estonia and Portugal, there has been a rapid increase in the number of excellent human resources staying in the country for long periods of time and establishing local corporations or starting their own businesses. It is extremely likely that Japan will follow the same path.

The year 2026 will undoubtedly be the "biggest turning point in the history of foreign human resource acceptance. All of the systems are "only for those who know how to benefit". Early information gathering and preparation will dramatically change your position five years from now.