East Asia
Japan, South Korea, China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and more
Countries
Latest Updates
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.
South Korea grants Chinese nationals 5-year and 10-year C-3 visas
South Korea has expanded its multiple-entry visa program for eligible Chinese travelers, offering validity periods of 5 or 10 years. This change simplifies repeat visits and reduces the administrative burden of frequent visa renewals for long-term travelers and business professionals.
Hong Kong treats remote work as employment requiring Top Talent Pass or GEP status
Hong Kong has updated its guidance to confirm that foreign nationals physically present in the city require authorization to work, even for remote roles. This affects digital nomads and expats who must now ensure they hold a General Employment Policy or other valid work visa to remain compliant while working from the territory.
Visa-free travelers can skip K-ETA requirements through Dec. 31
South Korea is lowering visa hurdles and extending stay options for foreign workers to address labor shortages. The reforms include longer residency options for certain visa-free visitors in Jeju and streamlined paths for long-term stays.
United maintains 3 weekly Mongolia flights from Tokyo starting April 30
United Airlines is relaunching seasonal service to Ulaanbaatar, significantly improving access for travelers connecting through Japan. The route simplifies logistics for nomads and tourists looking to visit Mongolia during the peak summer season.
South Korea extends K-ETA waiver for US and Canada through Dec. 31
Travelers from the U.S. and Canada remain exempt from the K-ETA requirement and its associated fees until the end of 2026. While the e-Arrival Card is still mandatory, this extension simplifies entry and reduces pre-departure costs for short-term visitors and scouting nomads.
South Korea moves employment reporting for F-4 and D-8 visas online Jan. 2
South Korea will implement updated immigration reporting requirements for foreign residents and visitors starting in June. These changes will likely affect how expats and long-term travelers notify authorities of address changes or status updates.
Hong Kong expands GEP and IANG extension window to 3 months before expiry
Hong Kong has clarified the timeline for extension-of-stay applications for GEP and IANG visa holders. Foreign professionals can now apply for extensions within 4 weeks of their current stay expiring, ensuring a more predictable renewal process for long-term expats.
Luxury Japan hotel stays face 10,000 yen nightly tax starting March 1
Kyoto is increasing its tiered lodging tax, specifically targeting higher-end hotels and serviced apartments. This change raises the daily cost of living for digital nomads and expats utilizing short-term or premium rentals in the city.
Japan studio rents climb to 107,000 yen squeezing digital nomads
Listed rents in Tokyoβs 23 wards have reached record levels, with the sharpest increases hitting the small apartments typically favored by single nomads and newcomers. This surge in housing costs makes finding affordable long-term accommodation increasingly difficult for foreigners relocating to the Japanese capital.
Japan triples International Tourist Tax to 3,000 yen starting July 1
Japan will increase its 'Sayonara Tax' for all travelers leaving the country by air or sea, including digital nomads and long-term residents. The fee hike from 1,000 to 3,000 yen applies to most visa holders, excluding only transit passengers and small children.
Nishitetsu raises Japan train fares by 11% for Fukuoka riders starting April 1
Expats and travelers in Fukuoka face higher transportation costs as Nishi-Nippon Railroad implements an 11.1% fare hike. Commuter pass prices have also increased by 15.6%, impacting long-term residents who rely on the network for daily travel.
Japan updates weather alerts to 5 levels for nomads and tourists starting May 29
Japan is overhaulng its disaster warning protocols to provide more precise alerts for heavy rain and flooding. Travelers and expats should update their emergency apps to ensure they receive these critical safety notifications in real time.
Japan activates heatstroke alerts as early temperatures top 35 in multiple regions
Japan has officially launched its heatstroke alert system following record temperatures across multiple regions in late April. Expats and digital nomads are advised to monitor the Heat Index (WBGT) as extreme heat conditions pose significant health risks for those unaccustomed to the climate.
400 march in Osaka against tougher foreign-resident rules
Approximately 400 demonstrators gathered in Osaka to protest new government policies and increasing exclusionism toward foreign residents. These social tensions follow recent legislative changes, including stricter residency rules and potential permit revocations for tax non-compliance.
Magnitude 5.7 quake near Wakayama rattles Osaka and Kyoto
A magnitude 5.7 earthquake struck near Wakayama on May 2, impacting major expat hubs including Osaka and Kyoto. While no major damage was reported, travelers and residents should remain alert for aftershocks and transport disruptions in the region.
Japan Hikes Visa and Residence Permit Fees Up to Tenfold in 2026
Japan is implementing drastic immigration updates including a tenfold increase in visa fees and stricter JLPT N2 language requirements for business visas. Foreign residents also face the risk of permanent residency revocation for tax evasion or social security payment delays.
918,000 Japan permanent residents face EijΕ«ken revocation for unpaid taxes
Starting in April 2027, Japan will implement strict compliance rules allowing the government to revoke permanent residency for non-payment of taxes or social insurance. Additionally, the Business Manager visa will require 30M yen in capital and N2 Japanese proficiency, while application fees for residency and PR will more than double by 2026.