Best for budget
Spain
Lower monthly income thresholds make this option easier to qualify for financially.
Side-by-side visa comparison
Japan vs Spain — Digital Nomad Visa Comparison
Japan requires $68,000/year with 6 months stay, while Spain requires $3,105/month with 12 months stay. Spain wins on budget.
Budget
Spain
Long-term
Spain
Fastest
Japan
Feature
Japan
Spain
Minimum Income
$68,000/year
$3,105/month
Duration
6 months
12 months
Processing Time
3 weeks
4 weeks
Application Fee
$20
$106
Tax Status
Tax exposure depends on stay length, treaty status, and sourcing rules; shorter stays under 183 days may avoid Japanese tax in treaty-supported cases.
24% flat tax available via Beckham Law (OPTIONAL, must apply within 6 months). Applies to Spanish-source income up to €600,000. Self-employed autónomos may not qualify. Not automatic.
Dependents
Yes
Yes
Path to Residency
No
Yes
Path to Citizenship
No
Yes
Best for long-term
Spain
Longer approved stay periods reduce renewal pressure and support slower relocation plans.
Fastest processing
Japan
Shorter processing windows can make this the better pick for near-term travel timelines.
Next step
Check Japan eligibility for your nationality
Next step
Check Spain eligibility for your nationality