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.
Updated: 20 May 2026 : Editorial Team, eVisa-Card.com
Japan at a Glance
| Capital | Tokyo |
| Currency | Japanese Yen (JPY) |
| Language | Japanese |
| Monthly cost | ~$1,500-3,000/month |
Work, study and residence
A tourist exemption or visitor visa does not automatically authorise employment, long-term study or residence. Check the appropriate permission before starting these activities.
Check your own nationality, passport type, residence, route and travel dates with the official authority. The French-passport summary is not an eligibility decision for another nationality.
Use the official checklist for passport validity, permitted entry points, accommodation, funds, onward travel and insurance where required. Requirements for minors, emergency passports and dual nationals can differ.
Choose the category matching the actual purpose of travel. Apply through the government portal or its appointed provider, check the fee before paying, and allow for requests for additional documents. Approval and entry are decided by the competent authorities.
Apply to the competent authority before your current permission expires. An extension, change of status or re-entry is subject to its own conditions; submitting a request does not by itself establish a right to remain.
Japan — Visa and entry requirements 2026Healthcare in Japan
Public Healthcare
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%.
Private Healthcare
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.
Typical Healthcare Costs
| 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 |
Supplementary Health Insurance
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.
Top Providers for Expats
Japan's largest private insurer. Cancer and hospitalisation riders. For Japanese-speakers primarily.
Popular cancer and medical indemnity plans. Useful as a supplement to NHI. English support available.
International plans for expats. Good English support. From ~¥15,000/month.
International plan for pre-arrival period and for coverage outside Japan. From ~$100/month.
Good for expats who travel frequently. Worldwide coverage including Japan. From ~$120/month.
Opening a Bank Account in Japan
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.
Recommended Banks
Required Documents
- Residence Card (在留カード) : mandatory
- My Number Card or My Number notification slip
- Japanese phone number or smartphone
- Proof of address (or residence card address is sufficient)
- Some banks require 6 months of residence before opening
Step-by-Step Process
- Register your address at the ward office and obtain your Residence Card
- Obtain My Number Card (apply at ward office, takes ~1 month)
- Visit Japan Post Bank or apply online at Sony Bank / Shinsei
- Present Residence Card and My Number
- Receive bankbook and/or debit card within 1-2 weeks
Buying Property in Japan
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.
Ownership Options for Foreigners
Full freehold ownership. Most expats buy condos in Tokyo, Osaka or Kyoto. Popular in international communities.
Full ownership of land and structure. Houses depreciate to near-zero after 20-30 years in Japan : land is the main value.
Vacant properties in rural areas, sometimes available for ¥1 (~$0.01) or very low prices. Renovation costs can be high.
Purchase Process
- Obtain a long-term residence visa (tourist visa insufficient for mortgage)
- Hire a licensed real estate agent (宅地建物取引業者) : usually no buyer fee
- Identify properties via SUUMO, AtHome or an expat-specialist agency
- Make an offer and receive the Property Information Document (重要事項説明書)
- Sign the Purchase Agreement (売買契約書) : pay 10% deposit
- Arrange mortgage (if applicable) or wire full payment
- Transfer at the notary / legal scrivener (司法書士) : title registered in land registry
Typical Purchase Costs
| 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 |
About This Guide
This guide is researched and maintained by the editorial team at eVisa-Card.com. Last updated: 20 May 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.