This article is a translation of the Japanese original. Where the two differ, the Japanese version prevails. Read the Japanese original（日本語版を読む）
Procedures for the 短期滞在 visa are said to be moving online. A digital nomad framework for remote workers has also been set up, but its period of stay is 6 months, and it cannot be extended. The responsibility of the guarantor when you invite someone, and the range of activities prohibited under the 短期滞在 visa, have not changed.
A guide for people who want to know the trends in 短期滞在 visa procedures as of 2025.
The period allowed under visa exemption is still normally 90 days, and no extension has been confirmed. The period of stay for a digital nomad is 6 months, and it cannot be extended.
The period you can stay in Japan for sightseeing or business without a 査証 (visa) is normally 90 days. You may come across information saying that this has been extended to 120 days for people of certain nationalities, but we could not confirm any facts supporting such an extension. Please always check how long you may stay with your own nationality at an official source, such as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, before you travel.
There is also a framework for people who work remotely in Japan while employed by a company abroad, the so-called digital nomad (特定活動告示53号, a notification under 在留資格「特定活動」 / Designated Activities). The main requirements are that you are employed by a company outside Japan, or run your own business outside Japan, and that you meet an income requirement. The period of stay is 6 months, and it cannot be extended. You may see explanations saying that you can stay for up to 1 year, but that is wrong, so please be careful. Unlike an ordinary 短期滞在 visa, you have to prove your source of income and your contractual relationships in detail, and the requirements are complex. If you are thinking of applying, please consult a specialist.
Online applications and faster screening are said to be in hand.
Procedures for the 短期滞在 visa are said to be shifting from going to an embassy or consulate counter to being completed online, and the framework that lets you submit documents, pay the fee and receive the visa online is reported to be widening. This is expected to cut waiting time at counters and to let you check the progress of your application online. Shortening the processing time where documents are in order is also said to be a target.
The 招へい理由書 and the 滞在予定表 still have to be clear, and the guarantor carries the same responsibility as before.
Even if procedures become simpler, the responsibility of the person in Japan who invites someone does not change. When you invite a relative or an acquaintance, the 招へい理由書 (letter explaining the reason for the invitation) and the 滞在予定表 (schedule of stay) are the most important documents. You have to state specifically, and without any falsehood, why you are inviting this person at this time. The 身元保証人 (guarantor) carries a moral responsibility for the applicant's living costs if the applicant cannot pay them, for the fare home if the applicant becomes unable to return, and for compliance with Japanese law. If the applicant has never obtained a visa before, or if the relationship between the inviter and the applicant is hard to prove objectively, the applicant's financial situation and intention to return home are examined closely. It is said to be effective to attach objective material showing the relationship, such as photographs, email histories or records of past remittances.
Activities with remuneration, and using the visa in order to stay long-term, are strictly prohibited.
The activities allowed under the 短期滞在 visa are limited to activities without remuneration, such as short business meetings, sightseeing and visits to relatives. You may not take part in any work in Japan for which payment arises, or receive a salary. If you do, it is treated as 不法就労 (illegal work) and can lead to 退去強制 (deportation) and to refusal of entry in the future. Changing to a work visa or to a 「留学」 (Student) visa while you are in Japan on a 短期滞在 visa is also not permitted as a rule. Obtaining a 短期滞在 visa when your purpose was a long stay from the start, and then trying to change status inside Japan, is treated as an improper application. If you want to stay long-term, you need to apply for the status of residence you actually want from the beginning.
Not as a rule. Obtaining a 短期滞在 visa when your purpose was a long stay from the start, and then trying to change status inside Japan, is treated as an improper application.
The main requirements are said to be that you are employed by a company outside Japan, or run your own business outside Japan, and that you meet an income requirement.
The period of stay is 6 months, and it cannot be extended. It is sometimes described as up to 1 year, but that is wrong.
No. The inviter still carries a moral responsibility for the applicant's living costs, for the fare home, and for compliance with the law.
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This page is a translation of the Japanese original. Where the two differ, the Japanese version prevails.