Expat Guide to Japan

Everything you need to know about living and working in Japan.

Immigration to Japan is relatively restrictive. The Highly Skilled Professional (HSP) visa uses a points-based system considering age, salary, education, and work experience — top scorers get accelerated PR (1-3 years). The Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services visa is the most common work visa requiring employer sponsorship. Working Holiday Visas are available for citizens of select countries (ages 18-30). Japan does not have a digital nomad visa, though tourists can stay 90 days visa-free (many nationalities). Working remotely on a tourist visa is technically illegal. The new 'Digital Nomad' visa type is being discussed but not yet available as of 2026.

Progressive income tax from 5% to 45%, plus a flat 10% resident tax (municipal + prefectural). Total marginal rate can exceed 55% at the highest bracket. Social insurance contributions include health insurance (~10%), pension (~18.3%), employment insurance (~0.6%), and nursing care insurance (~1.8%) — typically split between employer and employee. Japan has an extensive double taxation treaty network. The tax system is complex — a Japanese tax accountant (zeirishi) is recommended. Non-permanent residents (those who have not lived in Japan for 5 of the last 10 years) are only taxed on Japanese-source income and foreign income remitted to Japan.

Japan's National Health Insurance (国民健康保険) or employer-provided Social Health Insurance covers 70% of medical costs, with patients paying 30% out of pocket. Monthly premiums vary by income and municipality (typically ¥15,000-50,000/month). Healthcare quality is excellent — Japan has the most hospital beds per capita globally and advanced medical technology. Waiting times are generally short. Most doctors in major cities can communicate basic medical information in English, though language barriers exist for complex consultations. Prescription medication costs are reasonable with insurance coverage. Mental health services are improving but still somewhat stigmatized. Dental care is covered at 70% under NHI.

Banking in Japan can be challenging for foreigners. Shinsei Bank is the most English-friendly with free international ATM withdrawals and good online banking. Japan Post Bank (ゆうちょ銀行) is ubiquitous with ATMs at every post office. MUFG, SMBC, and Mizuho are the three mega-banks. Account opening requires: residence card (在留カード), passport, phone number, and inkan (personal seal — though signature is increasingly accepted). Cash remains widely used despite Japan's technological advancement — many small restaurants and shops are cash-only. PayPay and LINE Pay are growing mobile payment options. Wise works well for incoming international transfers.

8.1

Tokyo

💰 $2400/mo🌡️ 16°C

A fascinating blend of ultra-modern technology and ancient tradition. Tokyo is incredibly clean, safe, and efficient with the world's best public tran...