FAQs

No, although learning some Japanese is beneficial for a more rewarding experience. English is taught in primary schools, and translation/interpretation assistance for English speakers can be hired when dealing with official documentation or more complex tasks.

Yes, as long as you have a long-term visa, your kids can attend public schools. However, language and cultural differences may pose challenges, and some families opt for private international schools instead.

Finding accommodations in Japan can be challenging, especially without Japanese language skills. UR Apartments are recommended for urban areas, while seeking local assistance is beneficial for rural areas. Buying a rural house is also an option with sufficient funds. Purchasers of the Action Plan get a 1 year newsletter subscription and guidebook from cheaphousesjapan.com included in their purchase at no extra cost.

Yes, it is possible for foreigners to start a business in Japan. There are several business models available for entrepreneurs which would dovetail with a work or investor/business manager visa. Japan Remotely has a robust network of potential partners that can help facilitate the start of your business in Japan.

Yes, it is possible for foreigners to open a bank account in Japan if they have a long-term visa. Most foreigners start with a Japan Post Bank account as it has the lowest requirements.

Yes, you can drive in Japan with a valid international driver’s license. However, it is important to note that an international driver’s license is only valid for a certain period of time (usually one year). After that, you may need to obtain a Japanese driver’s license. Some countries and US states have reciprocity with Japan to convert the driver’s license relatively simply.

Yes, there are various opportunities for networking and socializing with other expats in Japan. There are expat communities, international organizations, language exchange events, and social groups that provide platforms for connecting with like-minded individuals and building a support network.

No, Japan doesn’t have a Golden Visa Program, but they have a Highly Skilled Foreign Professionals visa program that allows participants to obtain permanent residency in as little as one year.

Yes, they can work under a Dependent Visa, which allows up to 28 hours of work per week. If the primary visa holder is a Japanese citizen or holds a visa in the Highly Skilled Foreign Professionals program, the dependent can work unlimited hours.

No, Japan doesn’t have a specific digital nomad visa, but existing visa options can provide similar benefits for remote work when coupled with the appropriate business model.

A tourist visa will do! You don’t need to have a long-term visa to buy the house. You would need a visa to live in it for any longer than your tourist visa allows. You are also not supposed to work remotely while on a tourist visa. Your visits to your house would need to align with the purpose of that visa.

Yes, you do. The recommended options are a Work Visa or an Investment/Management Visa, which grant you the right to work in Japan full-time, access to the Japanese welfare system, and a path to permanent residency.

The visa application process can vary depending on the type of visa and individual circumstances. Generally, it takes several weeks to a few months to obtain a work visa for Japan. It is recommended to start the process well in advance of your planned relocation.

It depends on your home country and employment status there. Full-time salaried employees or high-income individuals from the US may experience some double taxation. Independent contractors or business owners often have more tax optimization tools at their disposal. Depending on your situation, there may be business strategies we can implement to limit the tax burden.

The benefits you receive from the Japanese tax and welfare system outweigh the costs. The comprehensive public health insurance, for instance, provides extensive coverage with no deductible or copay. Additionally, there are local governmental programs available to assist with co-insurance costs if needed.

Yes, but only on the income you earn in Japan. Global income is generally not taxed until you become a permanent resident. Japanese tax authorities determine residency to be permanent if the individual attains a permanent resident visa or maintains a long-term visa for 5 years.

The cost of living varies depending on your lifestyle and location. In rural areas, it can be as low as $1,500 per month, while urban areas like Tokyo may range around $3,000 per month for a modest lifestyle. Osaka’s cost of living is about 20% lower than Tokyo’s and smaller cities are even less.