South Korea Digital Nomad Visa for Japanese Passport Holders (2026)

Check the South Korea embassy website for current entry requirements for Japanese passport holders before applying for the digital nomad visa. Entry eligibility and digital nomad visa eligibility are assessed separately.

The Digital Nomad Visa assesses all applicants on the same criteria regardless of nationality. Japanese citizens can apply provided they meet the following requirements:

• Income: $66,000/year — proven via 3–6 months bank statements
• Remote work proof: Employment contract, freelance agreements, or client letters confirming you work for non-South Korea entities
• Health insurance: KRW 100 million minimum coverage required
• Clean background: Police clearance from Japan (apostilled if required by South Korea)
• Valid passport: Japan passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay
• Accommodation proof: Rental agreement, hotel booking, or property documents in South Korea

Important: Documents not in South Korea's official language or English must be certified translated. Japanese applicants should confirm apostille requirements for documents issued in Japan.

1. Gather documentation. Collect 3–6 months of bank statements showing consistent income above the threshold, employment contracts or freelance agreements, valid Japan passport (6+ months validity), international health insurance certificate, and a police clearance certificate.
2. Authenticate documents. Check whether South Korea requires apostille stamps on Japan-issued documents. Arrange certified translations for any documents not in the local language or English. This step can take 2–6 weeks — start early.
3. Check entry requirements. Verify whether Japanese citizens can enter South Korea visa-free or need a short-stay visa before applying for the digital nomad visa. Check the South Korea embassy website for current entry requirements for Japan passport holders.
4. Submit your application. Apply through the official South Korea government portal. Some programs accept online applications; others require in-person submission at a consulate.
5. Await approval and enter. Once approved, book travel and confirm your health insurance is active from day one. Register with local immigration if required within the first 30 days of arrival in South Korea.

Tax obligations for Japanese citizens on the Digital Nomad Visa depend on your residency status and duration of stay. Most digital nomad visa holders are not considered tax residents in South Korea if their income originates abroad — but this is not guaranteed.

Extended stays (typically 183+ days in a calendar year) may trigger local tax residency. As a Japan citizen, you must also consider your home country's worldwide income reporting requirements and any bilateral tax treaty between Japan and South Korea.

Always consult a tax professional who understands both Japan and South Korea tax law before committing to an extended stay.

Weak or inconsistent income documentation

Depositing a lump sum right before applying won't work. South Korea immigration officials want to see consistent income above the threshold over 3–6 months. Sporadic freelance payments or transfers from family members don't qualify. Start maintaining clean financial records as early as possible.

Missing apostille or translation requirements

Japanese applicants often underestimate authentication requirements. Japan-issued documents — including bank letters, employment contracts, and police certificates — may need apostille stamps and certified translations. This process can take weeks. Budget for it early.

Not confirming entry eligibility before booking travel

Japanese passport holders may need a short-stay visa to enter South Korea before their digital nomad visa is approved. Confirm entry requirements with the South Korea embassy before booking any flights. Entry eligibility and DNV eligibility are separate questions.