Japan visa options for UK citizens
Every path below is traced to the official rule and carries a confidence flag, so you know when to rely on it and when to double-check with the embassy. Data last reviewed 2026-07-02.
Tourist entry
Visa Exemption (Temporary Visitor)
visa exempt
- Stay limit
- 90 days
- Extension
- +90 days
- Government fee
- Free
- Processing
- On arrival / none
Requirements
- British Citizen passport valid for the whole stay
- No paid work in Japan; onward/return travel advisable
Documents
- Valid passport
- Visit Japan Web QR (optional, speeds entry)
Notes and sources
- KEY GB ADVANTAGE: the UK is among the few nationalities whose exemption can extend to 6 months; US is capped at 90 days.
- JESTA pre-authorization announced but NOT in force (target ~FY2028). Source: mofa.go.jp / gov.uk
Digital nomad / remote work
Digital Nomad (Designated Activities)
consular visa
- Stay limit
- 6 months
- Extension
- None
- Government fee
- 20 USD
- Processing
- 5-40 days
Requirements
- INCOME: JPY 10,000,000/yr (~USD 66,000), foreign-sourced, most recent year
- Private health insurance covering the full stay with 10M JPY+ medical cover
- Remote work only for employers/clients outside Japan; UK qualifies (visa-waiver + tax treaty)
Documents
- Valid passport
- Private health insurance certificate
- Contracts / bank statements / tax return showing 10M JPY
Notes and sources
- 6 months, non-renewable; 6 months outside Japan before reapplying. No residence card (no local bank account).
- Fee ~JPY 3,000; a reciprocal UK fee waiver is reported but unverified. Source: mofa.go.jp
Common questions
How long can UK citizens stay in Japan without a visa?
UK citizens can enter Japan under the Visa Exemption (Temporary Visitor) for up to 90 days, extendable by 90 days. Confidence: high.
Does Japan have a digital nomad visa for UK citizens?
Yes: the Digital Nomad (Designated Activities), allowing 6 months per stay. The income and document requirements are listed above, with sources. Confidence: high.
How reliable is this information?
Each path shows a confidence flag and its source. High means an official, current government source; medium means reputable secondary sources or recently changed rules; low means unclear or conflicting. Immigration rules change: always confirm against the linked official source before booking. This page is guidance, not legal advice.
Trip essentials nomads pair with this move
- SafetyWing - nomad travel medical insurance (many visas above require proof of coverage)
- Wise - multi-currency account, useful for proof-of-funds statements and paying fees
- Airalo - eSIM data on arrival, before you find a local SIM
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