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Head to head

Japan vs Thailand: the digital nomad visas compared

Verified data Last verified June 10, 2026

The short version

  • Tax treatment differs: Japan — foreign income exempt; Thailand — standard resident taxation. Tax outcomes depend heavily on personal circumstances.
Side-by-side comparison of the Japan DN and the Thailand DTV.
Criteria Japan DN Thailand DTV
Minimum income / month €4,500 No fixed threshold
Income basis Mixed (salary, freelance or savings) Savings accepted
Initial duration 6 months 6 months
Renewable No Yes (better)
Maximum total stay 6 months 5 years
Path to permanent residence No No
Path to citizenship No No
Family inclusion Yes Yes
Working for local clients Not allowed Not allowed
Tax treatment Foreign income exempt Standard resident taxation
Health insurance Required (explicit), min. €53,999 Not required
Insurance duration required Full visa period —
Application fee ≈ €16.20 (better) ≈ €350
Where to apply Embassy / consulate, In country Online, Embassy / consulate
Processing time 1 weeks 4 weeks

Green values mark the objectively better number in that row.

Full guide

Japan DN →

Requirements, application steps, insurance and sources.

Full guide

Thailand DTV →

Requirements, application steps, insurance and sources.

Sources