View the full digital nomad guide for Japan
Japan
Tokyo
Japan switches to tax refunds for tourists and nomads starting Nov. 1
Japan is overhauling its tax-free shopping system to require tourists and short-term visitors to pay tax-inclusive prices upfront. Starting Nov. 1, shoppers will claim their 10% VAT refunds at departure terminals via digital QR codes instead of receiving immediate discounts at the point of sale.
Japan maintains visa free entry for 70 regions under Temporary Visitor scheme
Travelers from 71 countries can enter Japan for up to 90 days without a visa provided they hold a valid e-passport. This remains the primary entry method for short-term digital nomads and remote workers while the dedicated nomad visa undergoes further refinement.
Japan raises Business Manager capital requirement to 30 million yen Oct. 16
Japan is significantly tightening criteria for the Business Manager visa by increasing the required capital to 30 million yen and mandating a local employee. Applicants will also need to demonstrate JLPT N2-level Japanese proficiency, creating a much higher barrier for foreign entrepreneurs.
Japan Increases Departure Tax for International Travelers
On April 6, 2026, reports indicated Japan will triple its international tourist tax (departure tax) from JPY 1,000 (~USD 6.27) to JPY 3,000 (~USD 18.80), effective July 1, 2026. The tax is bundled into airline/cruise tickets and applies to Japanese citizens and foreign residents (including on work/study visas) when leaving the country. This raises costs for travelers, digital nomads, and expats departing Japan.
Japan Updates Residency Rules for Naturalization
Expats seeking Japanese citizenship now face a residency requirement that has doubled to 10 years, along with stricter financial and social insurance audits.
Japan Updates Permanent Residence Rules for Expats
Starting March 2, 2026, applicants for Japanese Permanent Residence must hold the maximum authorized period of stay for their current visa category. This change adds a strict eligibility layer for long-term expats, as those with shorter 1-year or 3-year renewals will no longer qualify until they secure the longest available term.
Japan Updates Visa Fees and Border Security Rules
Japan is significantly increasing statutory ceilings for visa fees, with permanent residency applications potentially rising to ¥300,000. Additionally, the new JESTA system will require visa-exempt travelers to obtain electronic pre-clearance before entering the country.
Kyoto Rolls Out Tiered Accommodation Tax
Travelers and nomads staying in Kyoto will face increased accommodation taxes, particularly for high-end stays, raising the daily cost of living in the city.
Japan Updates Permanent Residency Rules for Long-Term Residents
Japan now requires applicants to hold a five-year visa, up from three years, to qualify for permanent residency. The updated guidelines also include stricter screening of tax and health insurance payment history for all applicants.