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Japan is set to initiate its digital nomad visa program in March 2024, permitting foreign IT engineers and industry professionals to live in the country.
To qualify for the visa, applicants must demonstrate an annual income surpassing 10 million Japanese Yen (US$67,340). The visa opportunity extends to self-employed and freelance individuals, removing the requirement for formal employment by a company.
This program will be open to nationals of countries that have established a tax treaty with Japan or enjoy visa-exempt status. Once granted the visa, foreigners can reside and work remotely in Japan for six months, a significant extension compared to the current 90-day duration for visa-free short-term stays. Moreover, digital nomads participating in the program can bring their spouses and children to Japan.
A digital nomad, defined as someone who works remotely but temporarily stays in one location, is the target demographic for this initiative. Worth noting is that Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) have similarly allowed entry for foreigners to work remotely as digital nomads in Canada while holding a visitor visa. Successful applicants in Canada may also obtain a work permit if they secure employment with a Canadian employer.