I am an IT professional in the U.S. and I have been keeping an eye out for contracting jobs overseas, specifically in Japan. I know next to nothing about it, but there are a few things I haven't been able to find resources for online. I'm sure a job interview might be able to clarify some of these things, but I would like to have a better idea of things before that point.
I'm not able to utilize Japanese banks or other government entities like that. As a result, the income is "tax-free" as you do not pay Japanese taxes or American taxes. In addition, you receive something called COLA, Cost-of-Living Allowance, and OHA, which pays for housing to your landlord. Am I understanding correctly that, in addition to base pay and these benefits, I will not be paying ANY taxes whatsoever to any entity?
I have a long-term girlfriend that I would like to take with me. She is not a dependent. Realistically, our options are to: A. Get married. B. Have her only be here 6 months out of the year on visitor visa status. C. Have her also get a SOFA job on base as well. She does not have a degree or high-level career experience, the extent of her experience is in food service and retail. Do the cashier, barista, etc. listings for Misawa Air Base offer SOFA? I notice these give priority to dependents, but in the case she is able to acquire such a job, would they offer SOFA?
What are the repercussions of buying property in Japan on SOFA? Does residing in Japan for 5 years under SOFA offer the opportunity for a Long-Term Residency VISA? (FYI I don't plan on owning anything out the gate, just thoughts about the long-term.)
Any help would be greatly appreciated. If there are other issues or tidbits I should know that I haven't considered, I would also appreciate advice. Thanks.
by Velstecco48