Retire in Spain vs Japan: The 2026 Freedom Comparison

Geo-arbitrage is the strategy of earning a strong currency (like USD or EUR) while living in a country with a lower cost of living. In 2026, this is the fastest way to achieve FIRE, allowing you to reduce expenses by 40-60% without lowering your quality of life.

The Freedom Clock calculates your exact 'Freedom Date' based on your savings, income, and the real-time cost of living in your target country. It accounts for 2026 inflation rates and tax laws to give you a precise timeline for early retirement.

A tax regime allowing qualifying expats (including remote workers) to pay a flat 24% tax on Spanish-sourced income for up to 6 years, instead of progressive rates.

Applicants must earn at least 200% of the Spanish minimum wage (SMI), which in 2026 is approximately €2,760 per month.

Yes, but it varies by region. Madrid and Andalusia offer high exemptions, while other regions tax net assets above €700k at 0.2% to 3.5%.

Spain ranks consistently in the top 10 globally. Residents can access the public 'Sistema Nacional de Salud' or buy private insurance for ~€60–€150/month.

The 'Golden Visa' (investing €500k in real estate) is under heavy reform in 2026; check current regional restrictions as many areas have suspended this route.

Spain is one of the safest countries in the EU. Petty crime like pickpocketing is common in tourist hubs, but violent crime is very low.

A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center typically ranges from €1,200 to €1,800 per month.

Generally, yes; groceries, dining, and public transport are significantly cheaper, often 30-40% less than major US cities.

You can drive for the first 6 months, after which you must obtain a Spanish license, which usually requires passing both theory and practical tests.

In major cities and tourist areas, English is widely spoken, but learning Spanish is essential for daily life and bureaucracy in smaller towns.

It allows remote workers earning at least 10 million JPY (~$68,000 USD) to stay for up to 6 months. It cannot be extended.

Generally no; since the visa is capped at 6 months, you do not meet the 1-year threshold for tax residency.

Yes, spouses and children can accompany the primary visa holder, provided they also have private health insurance.

While Yen fluctuations occur, Tokyo remains more affordable than NYC or London. A comfortable life costs roughly $2,500–$3,500/month.

Japan has one of the world's best healthcare systems. Nomad visa holders must have private insurance with at least 10M JPY coverage.

The nomad visa does not grant a Residence Card, making long-term rentals difficult; most nomads use 'Monthly Mansions' or Airbnbs.

Japan is exceptionally safe with very low crime rates. Standard precautions are enough even in the largest cities.

Japan has world-class fiber optic and 5G infrastructure. Public Wi-Fi is common, and pocket Wi-Fi rentals are very popular.

Tokyo is the hub, but Fukuoka and Osaka are becoming top choices due to lower costs and dedicated startup/nomad support.

Generally no; without a long-term residence card, you should rely on international banks like Wise, Revolut, or your home accounts.