Can I Live in Japan if I Work Remotely?

While to live in Japan and working from home seems like a great idea, there are several complicated legal and practical issues to consider.

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Let’s explore the possibility of working remotely while live in Japan.

Unlike some other countries, Japan does not yet provide a special visa for remote workers or digital nomads.

This implies that you should look at other visa categories if you want to live and work remotely in Japan.

While it can be difficult, remote workers may be able to temporarily reside in Japan with a number of visa options.

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The Temporary Visitor Visa is one choice if you are working remotely and want to visit Japan for a little period of time.
Depending on their nationality, visitors with this visa can stay in Japan for up to 90 days for brief business or tourism excursions.
It is necessary to remember that anyone who want to work in Japan, even remotely, are not eligible for the Temporary Visitor Visa.

Since many digital nomads use this visa for brief visits while still working online for international clients or employers, it officially forbids any form of paid employment.
This visa is not a long-term solution for remote work.

For people who work for Japanese-based enterprises, Japan provides a range of work visas.

Yet, these work visas might not apply to remote employees of a foreign company.
Work visas for Japan are typically linked to specialized positions inside Japanese companies, such as those of educators, engineers, or IT specialists.
Remote employment usually does not qualify for a regular Japanese work visa because it frequently includes working for clients or firms outside of Japan.

Read: Can I bring my family on a digital nomad visa?

The Business Manager Visa may be a good choice for you if you are an independent contractor or business owner.
This visa is designed for individuals who want to open a business in Japan.

A number of conditions must be fulfilled in order to be eligible, such as opening an office in Japan and making a specific financial investment.
If you want to stay in Japan for an extended period of time and manage your business from there, this option can be worthwhile for remote workers who are freelancers or own small firms.

You might qualify for a Spouse or Family Visa if you have close family ties to Japan, such as being married to a Japanese citizen.

This would enable you to live and work remotely in Japan.
Since it is only available to individuals who fulfill the requirements for a family-related visa, this is one of the easier methods to live in Japan for an extended period of time.

Anyone who spends more than 183 days in Japan during a tax year is subject to the country’s strict tax residency regulations.

You might have to pay taxes on your worldwide income if you move to Japan and become a tax resident.
It is necessary to find out if your country has a tax treaty with Japan because Japan has agreements with multiple countries to prevent double taxation.
If you want to live in Japan while working remotely, it is strongly advised that you hire a tax counsel who is knowledgeable with Japanese tax legislation.

You may continue working remotely while still taking advantage of the amazing experience to live in Japan if you plan beforehand.

Read: Can I get a retirement visa for Indonesia?