Japan works to draw in more digital nomads

The Japan Tourism Agency announced its plan to launch a new programme for attracting digital nomads this year.

This initiative aims to support municipalities and companies in attracting digital nomads, individuals who work remotely from anywhere in the world using digital technologies.

JTA officials hope that their programmes will promote interactions between Japanese companies and digital nomads, who include entrepreneurs.

Doing the research

The Agency conducted model projects for attracting digital nomads in five regions throughout the 2024 fiscal year. 

Based on the data gathered, it will draw up guidelines for other regions interested in such projects.

The Agency is also working on additional plans to hold similar model projects in fiscal 2025.

In April of last year, the Japanese government set a new residential status to allow digital nomads to stay and work in Japan for up to six months.

Subsidies for those who can work from anywhere

The JTA said that it would provide subsidies to cover part of the expenses for preparation of workplaces and accommodation for such workers.

At the same time, the Agency aims to expand consumption by foreign digital nomads, who are expected to stay longer than tourists.

The subsidies will partially cover the costs of creating shared offices that are open 24 hours, cafes, and bars allowing such workers to interact.

Lodgings equipped with such facilities will also be covered by these subsidies.