Japan Business & Investment Visas – Opportunities for Immigrants

Filed in Japan by Editorial Team on April 11, 2025

Japan, the world’s third-largest economy, is renowned for its cutting-edge technology, vibrant consumer market, and global influence.

Why Start a Business or Invest in Japan?

Japan is a stable, advanced economy that actively encourages foreign business participation. Here’s why immigrants should consider Japan for investment and business development:

Strong legal and financial systems
Highly educated workforce
Access to global markets through trade agreements
Government incentives for foreign startups and investors
Growing demand for international goods, services, and perspectives
Pathways to long-term residency and permanent settlement

Overview of Business & Investment Visa Options

There are two primary visa options available for foreign entrepreneurs and investors looking to establish or support a business in Japan:

Business Manager Visa

This visa is for individuals planning to start, manage, or invest in a business in Japan.

Eligibility Requirements:

Establish a physical office in Japan
Invest at least ¥5 million (~USD 35,000) or hire at least two full-time employees
Submit a detailed business plan
Provide financial documentation showing business viability
Must hold a managerial role or act as the representative director

Visa Duration:

Initially 1 year (can be extended to 3 or 5 years upon renewal based on business performance)

Applicable Business Types:

Technology startups
Restaurants and retail
Consulting firms
International trade businesses
Import/export operations

Start-up Visa (Temporary Residence for Entrepreneurs)

Japan offers a special Start-up Visa for foreign entrepreneurs who wish to build a business from scratch.

Key Features:

Offered in select cities and regions such as Tokyo, Fukuoka, Osaka, and Aichi
No upfront capital required during the visa application
Valid for 6 months to 1 year, giving you time to meet the Business Manager Visa requirements
Requires support from the local government’s startup program

Ideal for:

Early-stage entrepreneurs
Young professionals and students with business ideas
Immigrants testing the waters before long-term commitment

How to Apply for a Business Manager Visa

Here’s a step-by-step process for obtaining the Business Manager Visa:

Step 1: Establish Your Company

Choose a business type (e.g., Kabushiki Kaisha or GK – similar to LLC)
Register your company with the Legal Affairs Bureau
Secure a physical office space (virtual offices are not accepted)

Step 2: Invest Capital or Hire Staff

Deposit at least ¥5 million into a Japanese business bank account
Alternatively, hire two or more full-time Japanese employees

Step 3: Prepare Required Documents

Passport and visa application form
Certificate of company registration
Lease contract for office space
Business plan (including revenue projections and market analysis)
Proof of investment (bank statements, capital verification)
Resume and supporting documents showing business experience

Step 4: Apply for the Certificate of Eligibility (CoE)

Submit your application to the local Immigration Bureau in Japan
Processing time: 1 to 3 months

Step 5: Apply for the Visa at the Japanese Embassy

Once the CoE is approved, apply for your Business Manager Visa at the Japanese embassy or consulate in your home country.

How to Apply for the Start-up Visa

For early-stage entrepreneurs, the Start-up Visa offers a more accessible entry point into Japan’s business ecosystem.

Application Steps:

Choose a designated municipality that offers the Start-up Visa (e.g., Tokyo, Fukuoka)
Submit your business proposal to the local government office
Receive a “Startup Program Support Confirmation” from the city
Apply for the Start-up Visa at the Immigration Bureau
Use the 6–12 month visa to fulfill Business Manager Visa requirements

Municipalities may offer office space, mentoring, and networking opportunities for Start-up Visa holders.

Business-Friendly Cities in Japan

Certain cities in Japan have emerged as startup and investment hubs, offering local support and access to talent and capital.

Tokyo

Japan’s capital and financial center
Access to global corporations, venture capital, and talent
Offers Start-up Visa through the Tokyo Metropolitan Government

Fukuoka

Known as Japan’s “startup city”
Fast-tracked procedures for startups
Vibrant community of young entrepreneurs

Osaka

Second-largest metro area
Strong in manufacturing, logistics, and e-commerce
Support from Kansai Economic Federation

Aichi (Nagoya)

Industrial powerhouse
Automotive and robotics business ecosystem
Start-up Visa support available

Benefits of Holding a Business Visa in Japan

Legal authority to run a business or manage a company
Eligibility to sponsor dependents (spouse and children)
Renewable visa with potential for long-term residency
Access to Japanese health insurance and pension systems
Opportunity to expand across Asia through Japan’s trade network

With sustained business performance, you may also apply for permanent residency after 5 years (or as early as 1 year for highly skilled professionals).

Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Language Barrier

Most legal and tax documents are in Japanese
Solution: Hire bilingual staff or consult with certified specialists

Cultural Differences

Business etiquette and communication may differ
Solution: Take part in local business workshops and intercultural training

Banking and Finance

Opening a bank account as a foreigner can be tricky
Solution: Use immigration-friendly banks and legal advisors

Tips for Success

Build a strong business plan that shows profitability and social relevance
Network with other entrepreneurs through chambers of commerce and business groups
Use government resources such as JETRO (Japan External Trade Organization) for support
Hire a reliable administrative scrivener (gyoseishoshi) to help with documentation
Be patient and persistent, navigating regulations takes time but pays off

Japan is no longer just a tech powerhouse, it’s also a rising destination for ambitious entrepreneurs and investors from around the world.

With multiple visa options, government-backed programs, and a stable economy, the opportunities are vast for immigrants who want to launch and grow a business in Japan.

Whether you’re testing a startup idea or expanding an international brand, Japan offers the tools, support, and environment you need to succeed.

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