Last Updated: Feb 2026

Japan Visa vs South Korea

Side-by-side comparison of tax rules, income requirements, and visa difficulty.

CriteriaJapanSouth Korea
Income$6,600/mo$5,500/mo
Savings OptionN/AN/A
Visa Fee$25$60
Processing1 month2 weeks
Validity6 months (non-renewable)1 year (renewable)
Cost TierMediumHigh
Nomad Cost (est.)~$2,600/mo~$3,100/mo
1BR Rent~$950~$900
Internet250 Mbps280 Mbps
Pet Friendliness3/104/10
Tax trigger183 days183 days
Insurance requiredYesYes
Pet Catch (2026)Japan has some of the world's strictest pet import laws.Strict quarantine unless you have a rabies titer test from an approved lab.

Travel Insurance Required

Japan deep-diveSouth Korea deep-dive