The Japanese government is reported to be mulling over visas for digital nomads.
Following the success of digital nomad visas in many countries in Europe, Asia and South America, the Japanese government is hoping the new visa will encourage longer term visitors by creating an environment accessible to foreign high-skilled workers, according to travelinglifestyle.net.
According to international data, there are an estimated 35 million digital nomads in the world, annually spending an estimated US$787 billion (R1,5 trillion).
The government is working on a strategy to restore foreign tourism to Japan to pre-COVID levels. The strategy, expected to be compiled this month, will explore the challenges that could be experienced by opening their doors to digital nomads, mainly regarding visas and residence status.
Japan has a visa waiver agreement with 69 countries, limited to 90-day stays. According to international surveys, an estimated 66% of digital nomads move every three to six months, so the government is considering issuing a visa similar to a work visa, which would allow nomads to stay in Japan for more than 90 days.
Many countries in Europe, Central and South America have already introduced digital nomad visas, allowing foreigners to stay in their countries from between six months and two years.
