Japan
The world's most organised country, and since the yen's slide one of the better-value developed destinations. Japan rewards long stays: trains that run to the second, a hostel culture that is spotless, food that is cheap at the bottom and transcendent at the top.
Entry and visas
Citizens of around 70 countries, including the US, UK, EU states, Canada and Australia, may stay up to 90 days visa-free as temporary visitors (no work permitted). Japan launched a digital nomad residence status in 2024 for high earners from selected countries, limited to six months. Working Holiday agreements exist with around 30 countries for ages 18 to 30.
| Passport | Category | Max days | Verified |
|---|---|---|---|
| US | Visa-free (temporary visitor) 90 days as a temporary visitor; no paid work. Register on Visit Japan Web to speed immigration and customs. | 90 | Oct 19, 2026 official source ↗ |
| GB | Visa-free (temporary visitor) 90 days as a temporary visitor; no paid work. Register on Visit Japan Web to speed immigration and customs. | 90 | Oct 19, 2026 official source ↗ |
| DE | Visa-free (temporary visitor) 90 days as a temporary visitor; no paid work. Register on Visit Japan Web to speed immigration and customs. | 90 | Oct 19, 2026 official source ↗ |
| CA | Visa-free (temporary visitor) 90 days as a temporary visitor; no paid work. Register on Visit Japan Web to speed immigration and customs. | 90 | Oct 19, 2026 official source ↗ |
| AU | Visa-free (temporary visitor) 90 days as a temporary visitor; no paid work. Register on Visit Japan Web to speed immigration and customs. | 90 | Oct 19, 2026 official source ↗ |
Remote work and long stays
Digital Nomad (Designated Activities) (up to 180 days): Six-month status for remote workers from countries with a visa-exemption and tax-treaty arrangement with Japan; annual income of at least JPY 10 million and private health insurance required; not renewable within the same year. official source ↗
Last verified Oct 19, 2026
Working holiday and residence programmes
- Japan Digital Nomad status (Designated Activities) · ages 18+ · 6 months
- Japan Working Holiday visa · ages 18–30 · 12 months
Entry rules are research summaries with their official source and the date we last checked them; they are not eligibility decisions. Check the official page before you travel. Open the Visa & Work Finder →
Safety
Among the safest countries anywhere. The practical risks are natural: earthquakes, typhoons (August to October) and heat in summer. Lost wallets are routinely returned.
Official advisory: Japan - Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions (U.S. Department of State, ). UK FCDO advice ↗
Health
Excellent healthcare, but hospitals expect payment and English is limited; insurance with direct billing helps. No special vaccinations needed. Summer heat exhaustion is a real issue in Tokyo and Kyoto.
Money
Japan is far more card-friendly than its reputation, but many small restaurants and rural shops remain cash only. 7-Eleven and Japan Post ATMs accept foreign cards without drama. A Suica or Pasmo card (also on your phone) pays for trains, buses and convenience stores.
Tipping: Not practised and can cause confusion · Tap water: Safe to drink everywhere
Getting around
Shinkansen are superb but pricey; the national JR Pass rose sharply in 2023 and no longer pays off for most itineraries. Regional passes, highway buses and budget airlines (Peach, Jetstar Japan) are the budget tools. City transit is flawless.
SIMs and connectivity
Tourist SIMs and eSIMs (IIJmio, Ubigi, Airalo, Sakura Mobile) are data-only; buy online before arrival. Free Wi-Fi is patchier than you would expect.
