Japan combines extraordinary safety, efficient infrastructure, unique culture and excellent healthcare. The 2024 Digital Nomad Visa and the Highly Skilled Professional (HSP) point system have made Japan more accessible than ever for skilled foreign workers.
Última atualização : March 2026 — Equipe editorial, eVisa-Card.com
| Capital | Tokyo |
| Currency | Japanese Yen (JPY) |
| Language | Japanese |
| Monthly cost | ~$1,500–3,000/month |
| Visa Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Digital Nomad Visa (2024) | New 6-month visa for remote workers earning ¥10,000,000/year (~$65,000+). Single-entry, extendable for 6 months. Must have health insurance. Cannot work for Japanese companies. |
| Highly Skilled Professional (HSP) | Points-based system (70+ points). Points for education, income, age, Japanese ability. Allows fast-track to permanent residence (1–3 years vs standard 10). |
| Engineer/Specialist Visa | For IT, engineering and scientific professionals. Requires job offer from Japanese employer. 1–5 year renewable permit. |
| Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) | For specified industries (hospitality, food service, care, construction). No degree required. Up to 5 years. |
| Spouse/Dependent Visa | For spouses and dependent children of work visa holders or permanent residents. Allows certain types of employment. |
| Permanent Resident (PR) | After 10 years continuous residence (or 1–3 years on HSP visa). No work restrictions. Highly desirable. |
Japan has a universal health insurance system. All residents (including foreigners with a Residence Card) must enrol in either National Health Insurance (国民健康保険, Kokumin Kenkou Hoken) for self-employed/unemployed, or company health insurance (社会保険) for employees. Patients pay 30% of medical costs; the insurance covers 70%.
Japan's public hospitals are excellent — among the best in the world. Private clinics are common for routine care. International clinics in Tokyo (JICA, St. Luke's International, Tokyo Midtown Medical Center) offer English-language services.
| Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| NHI monthly premium (employee, 30%) | ~¥15,000–35,000/month depending on income |
| GP consultation (30% co-pay) | ¥1,000–3,000 (~$7–20) |
| Specialist consultation (30% co-pay) | ¥2,000–6,000 (~$13–40) |
| Hospitalisation (30% co-pay, per day) | ¥5,000–20,000 (~$33–133) |
| Dental (partial coverage) | ¥2,000–5,000 per visit |
| Prescription medicines (30% co-pay) | ¥200–2,000 |
Because Japan's National Health Insurance already covers 70% of medical costs, supplementary insurance is less critical than in other countries. However, international health insurance is useful for the period before NHI enrolment, for English-language hospitals, and for coverage during international travel.
A Japanese bank account is essential for receiving salary, paying rent, utilities and taxes. It has historically been difficult for new arrivals, but the process has improved significantly.
Japan has no restrictions on foreigners buying property — freehold ownership is fully permitted. Japan is unique in that properties (especially houses) can depreciate significantly over time, while land values are more stable. Prices outside Tokyo and major cities are remarkably low.
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Real estate agent fee | 3% + ¥60,000 + tax (paid by buyer and seller) |
| Registration and license tax | 0.1–2% of assessed value |
| Property acquisition tax | 3–4% of assessed value (one-time, 3–6 months after purchase) |
| Judicial scrivener (registration) | ¥100,000–300,000 |
| Annual fixed asset tax | 1.4% of assessed value (about 70% of market value) |
| Building inspection | ¥50,000–100,000 recommended |
This guide is researched and maintained by the editorial team at eVisa-Card.com. Última atualização : March 2026. We strive to keep all information current but visa rules, healthcare costs and property regulations change frequently. Always verify current requirements with official government sources and consult a licensed professional before making major decisions.
Editorial Team — eVisa-Card.com
Expat guides written by travel experts, immigration specialists and expats with first-hand experience in Japan.
✔ Verified information ✔ Updated March 2026 ✔ Official sources cited