Tokyo Expats Chat

Who it's for

Made for digital nomads, English teachers and students in Tokyo.

Common questions in this chat

Does Japan have a digital nomad visa?

Yes: a Designated Activities visa for remote work, for up to 6 months with no extension. MOFA sets a minimum annual income, private insurance covering death, injury and illness, and nationality of a visa-exempt country with a tax treaty with Japan. Apply at a Japanese embassy or consulate abroad. See the MOFA page for the current amounts. Source: mofa.go.jp/ca/fna/pagewe_000001_00046.html. Checked: 2026-10.

How much will it cost to move into an apartment in Tokyo?

Guides say about 4 to 6 months of rent upfront: shikikin deposit 1-2 months, reikin key money 0-2 months (non-refundable), agency fee up to one month plus tax, guarantor company fee 30-100% of a month, first month rent, fire insurance JPY 15,000-25,000 and lock exchange. Filter for no-reikin listings to cut costs. Source: marokama.com/rental-tips/tokyo-apartment-initial-costs/. Checked: 2026-10.

Can foreigners open a bank account in Tokyo?

Yes, generally with a residence card and registered address; tourists usually cannot. Japan Post Bank is often recommended to newcomers but may require more than 3 months left on your stay; some banks (e.g. MUFG, Shinsei) ask for a hanko seal, while others accept a signature. Some banks want 6 months of residency, so ask the branch. Source: wise.com/en-jp/blog/open-bank-account-japan-post-bank. Checked: 2026-10.

Do I have to register my address after moving in Tokyo?

Yes. Within 14 days of moving, notify the ward or municipal office of your new address, bringing your residence card; presenting the card at the counter counts as the notification to immigration. Moving out of the old ward must also be reported. Other changes to card details go to the regional immigration bureau within the official deadline; late filing can be penalised. Source: isa.go.jp/en/applications/procedures/nyuukokukanri10_00023.html. Checked: 2026-10.

How much does it cost to extend my visa in Japan?

Fees for extending your period of stay rose on 1 Oct 2026 and depend on the length of stay granted. Online and counter fees differ, so check the official fee table at the ISA page below before you apply. Processing typically takes from a couple of weeks to about a month. Source: moj.go.jp/isa/11_00107.html. Checked: 2026-10.

Chat rules

1. No spam. No ads, promo or referral links without a moderator's OK.
2. Nothing illegal or dangerous: no escorts, drugs, scams, fake documents.
3. No forwards from channels while you're new — write your own words.
4. Respect each other. No insults, discrimination or harassment.
5. English only so everyone can follow.
6. Stay on topic: life in Tokyo — housing, visas, work, health, events, tips.
7. Report, don't argue: reply to the message with /report and moderators will look.

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