Navigating the process of obtaining a business visa in Japan can be daunting. Whether you're an entrepreneur looking to start a new venture or a corporate executive planning an extended stay, understanding the nuances of Japan's visa system is crucial. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of business visas in Japan, including the types of visas available, eligibility criteria, application procedures, and practical tips for a successful application.
Table of Contents
Types of Business Visas in Japan
Japan offers several types of business visas to cater to different needs. The most common ones include:
Business Manager Visa (経営・管理ビザ Keiei-Kanri Visa)
Intra-Company Transferee Visa (企業内転勤ビザ Kigyōnai Tenkō Visa)
Highly Skilled Professional Visa (高度専門職ビザ Kōdo Senmonshoku Visa)
Business Manager Visa
The Business Manager Visa is designed for entrepreneurs and business managers planning to establish or manage a business in Japan.
Requirements:
A minimum investment of 5 million yen.
A physical office in Japan.
At least one full-time employee who is a Japanese national or a permanent resident.
A solid business plan.
Application Process:
Certificate of Eligibility (COE): The first step is to obtain a COE from the Immigration Bureau of Japan. This involves submitting various documents, including a detailed business plan, proof of financial stability, and evidence of securing office space in Japan.
Visa Application: Once the COE is obtained, submit it and other required documents to the Japanese embassy or consulate in your home country.
Validity and Renewal:
Typically valid for 1-5 years.
Renewable as long as the business remains active and meets the visa requirements.
Advantages:
Flexibility to engage in any lawful business activities.
Ability to sponsor dependents for visas.
Contact ULPA for expert help launching
your Business in Japan
Intra-Company Transferee Visa
This visa is for employees of multinational companies who are transferred to Japan.
Requirements:
Must have worked for the company for at least one year before the transfer.
The transfer should be to a branch, parent, or subsidiary company in Japan.
Application Process:
Certificate of Eligibility (COE): Similar to the Business Manager Visa, the COE must be obtained from the Japanese Immigration Office.
Visa Application: Submit the COE and other necessary documents to the Japanese embassy or consulate.
Validity and Renewal:
Valid for 1-5 years.
Renewable based on continued employment with the company.
Advantages:
A streamlined process for employees of multinational companies.
Allows for the transfer of specialized knowledge and skills.
Highly Skilled Professional Visa
This visa aims to attract top talent to Japan by offering various incentives.
Requirements:
A point-based system where applicants must score at least 70 points based on education, professional experience, and salary.
Application Process:
Certificate of Eligibility (COE): Apply for a COE under the Highly Skilled Professional category.
Visa Application: Submit the COE and other required documents to the Japanese embassy or consulate.
Validity and Renewal:
Valid for 1-5 years.
Offers a fast track to permanent residency after 3 years.
Advantages:
Possibility of engaging in multiple activities that cover different visa categories.
Faster access to Permanent Resident status.
Preferential processing of immigration procedures.
Contact ULPA for expert help launching
your Business in Japan
Detailed Breakdown of Each Visa Type
Business Manager Visa: Deep Dive
Eligibility and Requirements:
Investment: Minimum of 5 million yen. This investment demonstrates the financial commitment to the business and is used to fund operations, rent office space, and hire employees.
Office Space: Must be a physical office located in Japan. Virtual offices or shared spaces are generally not accepted unless they meet specific criteria.
Employment: Must employ at least one full-time staff who is either a Japanese national, a permanent resident, or has an appropriate long-term visa.
Application Process:
Preparing Documents: Gather all necessary documents, including business registration, proof of investment, lease agreement for office space, and a detailed business plan.
Submission: Submit the COE application to the Immigration Bureau. A legal representative or proxy in Japan can do this for you if you are applying from abroad.
COE Issuance: Once the COE is issued, apply for the visa at the Japanese embassy or consulate in your home country.
Common Challenges:
Document Preparation: Ensuring all documents are complete and accurately translated into Japanese can be challenging.
Financial Proof: Demonstrating sufficient financial resources to support Japan's business and personal living expenses.
Business Viability: The business plan must convincingly demonstrate the viability and potential success of the business in Japan.
Tips for Success:
Professional Assistance: Hire an immigration lawyer or consultant to assist with the application process.
Detailed Business Plan: A comprehensive and realistic business plan increases the chances of approval.
Financial Stability: Provide clear evidence of financial stability and business sustainability.
Intra-Company Transferee Visa: Deep Dive
Eligibility and Requirements:
Employment Duration: Must have been employed by the company for at least one year before the transfer.
Company Relationship: The transfer must be to a branch, parent company, subsidiary, or affiliate in Japan.
Application Process:
COE Application: To obtain the COE, you must submit documents such as an employment contract, proof of previous employment duration, and details about the transferring company's Japanese office.
Visa Application: Submit the COE, the visa application form, and other required documents to the Japanese embassy or consulate.
Common Challenges:
Document Verification: Ensuring all documents, such as proof of employment and company registration in Japan, are verified and accurate.
Transfer Justification: Clearly explain the necessity and benefits of the transfer to the Japanese entity.
Tips for Success:
Detailed Job Description: Provide a clear and detailed job description outlining the responsibilities and contributions of the transferee.
Company Support: Ensure strong support from the company’s HR or legal department to streamline the application process.
Contact ULPA for expert help launching
your Business in Japan
Highly Skilled Professional Visa: Deep Dive
Eligibility and Requirements:
Point-Based System: Applicants must score at least 70 points based on education level, professional experience, salary, and other factors.
High-Level Skills: The visa targets professionals with advanced and specialized skills who contribute significantly to Japan's economy and society.
Application Process:
COE Application: Apply for the COE under the Highly Skilled Professional category, including documents such as educational certificates, proof of professional experience, and evidence of high salary.
Visa Application: Submit the COE and the visa application form to the Japanese embassy or consulate.
Common Challenges:
Scoring Points: Accumulating the required points can be challenging, especially for applicants with less experience or lower salaries.
Document Accuracy: Ensuring all documents, such as degree certificates and proof of work experience, are accurate and properly authenticated.
Tips for Success:
Thorough Preparation: Carefully review the point-based system and ensure you meet the minimum score before applying.
Detailed Documentation: Provide comprehensive documentation to support your qualifications and experience.
Professional Advice: Consult with an immigration expert to maximize your application’s chances of success.
How to Apply for a Startup Visa
The Startup Visa is designed to help foreign entrepreneurs start their businesses in Japan. Here’s a detailed guide on how to apply for one:
Startup Visa’s Relaxed Requirements
Since 2015, Japan's Startup Visa has been a crucial step for many foreign entrepreneurs looking to establish their ventures. The Startup Visa allows entrepreneurs to stay in Japan for six to 18 months while setting up a business. As of February 2023, 22 municipalities, including those within national strategic special zones, have been designated to encourage more foreigners to open businesses. These municipalities include Fukuoka, Kyoto, Sendai, and Hokkaido.
The Startup Visa relaxed the strict requirements for raising funds and hiring employees that had made obtaining a Business Manager Visa so challenging. Specifically, the Startup Visa removes the need for an initial 5 million yen investment (approximately USD 38,000) and the requirement to hire at least two employees immediately. Startup Visa holders can stay in Japan for six months to meet such requirements and prepare to launch their new business. In some municipalities, an additional 6- to 12-month extension is available if the municipal government approves their business opening progress.
Application Process:
Initial Application: Apply to one of the 22 designated municipalities (as of Feb 2023). The application process involves submitting necessary documents, including a concrete business plan. Each municipality has specific criteria and support systems tailored to different business needs.
Examination: This stage includes a detailed review of submitted documents and an interview. The review ensures the business plan and other materials meet specific criteria set by the municipality. The interview typically focuses on the viability of the business plan, the entrepreneur’s experience, and their understanding of the Japanese market.
Result Notification: Successful applicants are informed that they can proceed with their business establishment in Japan under the Startup Visa’s temporary residency status. This step enables the entrepreneurs to start business activities in Japan while enjoying various local support services.
Contact ULPA for expert help launching
your Business in Japan
Necessary Documents:
The required documents may vary slightly depending on the municipality, but generally include:
Resume: Detailing the applicant’s professional background and relevant experience.
A Copy of the Applicant’s Passport: Identification and proof of nationality.
A New Business Implementation Confirmation Application Form: Provided by the municipality.
A New Business Implementation Plan: A detailed business plan outlining the business model, market analysis, financial projections, and strategies for growth.
Proof of Accommodation in Japan: Evidence that the applicant has a place to stay during their initial period in Japan.
A Recent Bank Statement of the Applicant: Demonstrating financial stability and capability to fund the startup.
Targeted Businesses for Startup Visas in Each Municipality
Municipality | Targeted business |
Hokkaido Prefecture | Helps turn the agriculture, forestry, and fishery industries, which are the backbones of the region, into growth sectors Promotes the development of food-related industries utilizing local resources Helps make Hokkaido into a leading city in the tourism industry Promotes the development of a manufacturing industry that creates high added value Promotes the creation of industries in accordance with the changing size and needs of the market Other businesses that the governor may consider necessary |
Sendai city | May strengthen the global competitiveness of Sendai City’s industries, increase employment, and belong to the following sectors: knowledge-creation industry (e.g., semiconductor-related, software development, content development, robot-related, etc.). Health, medical, welfare, and education industries (ex: drug development venture, medical technology development, regenerative medicine, development of welfare-related equipment, language education-related business, etc.) Environment, energy, and disaster-prevention industries (ex: clean energy development, next-generational power storage technology, provision of products and services related to disaster prevention, etc.) Trade and tourism industries (e.g., businesses that contribute to developing overseas sales channels for products made within the city, businesses that attract foreign visitors, etc.) |
Niigata City | None in particular |
Ibaraki Prefecture | Research and development business centred around life sciences (medicine, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, etc.) Aims for high growth by utilizing innovative technologies and skills such as IT (information and communications industry) and robotics Other businesses particularly approved by the governor |
Tokyo Metropolitan Government | None in particular |
Shibuya City | Health, medical, and welfare industries Environment and energy industries Food, agriculture, forestry, and fisheries industries Information industry Culture and art industries Fashion industry |
Kanagawa Prefecture | Presymptomatic and life sciences (biotechnology-related, medical equipment, etc.) Energy business (energy creation, saving, storage, etc.) IT and robotics (software-related, artificial intelligence, Internet of Things (IoT), information and communications technology (ICT), etc.) Tourism business (attracting visitors, creating appeal as a tourism destination, etc.) In addition to the above, those particularly approved by the Governor of Kanagawa Prefecture as contributing to strengthening the global competitiveness of an industry within the prefecture or to making Kanagawa a hub for international economic activities. |
Aichi Prefecture | (Program to Promote Startups by Foreign Nationals)None in particular (Projects for Encouraging Foreign Entrepreneurs to Start Business) Aims for high growth in the IT field (information and communications industry) by utilizing innovative technologies and skills. |
Gifu Prefecture | Strengthens the global competitiveness of industries in Gifu Prefecture, makes Gifu a hub for international economic activities and belongs to the following sectors: IT, IoT, and other related sectors (Implements and utilizes IT, IoT, etc., to improve a company’s productivity, develops new products and technologies, and creates new added value) Tourism sector (Expands tourism consumption within the prefecture and that attracts visitors to the prefecture) |
Kyoto Prefecture | (Program to Promote Startups by Foreign Nationals / Projects for Encouraging Foreign Entrepreneurs to Start Business) Aims to strengthen the global competitiveness of Kyoto Prefecture’s industries, increase employment, give back to the local economy, develop Kyoto’s position as a global economic hub, and belong to the following sectors: Manufacturing sector such as traditional industry or cutting-edge industry AI, IoT, information and communications sectors Environment, energy sectors Life science, wellness sectors Social business sector Culture, art, and contents sector Agriculture, forestry, fisheries, Kyoto’s food culture sectors Tourism sector (excluding souvenir shops and restaurants that are used mainly by tourists) Other businesses approved by the Governor of Kyoto Prefecture |
Osaka City | Industrial sectors as defined by the Osaka City Basic Plan based on the Regional Future Investment Promotion ActPromising manufacturing sector Fourth industrial Revolution sector Green energy sector Healthcare life science sector Tourism, sports, culture, town-building sectors |
Kobe City | Utilizes advanced technologies (IT, health, medicine & welfare, environment, logistics, etc.) Adds value to existing industries or induces innovations Other businesses that the Mayor of Kobe City may consider necessary |
Hiroshima Prefecture | None in particular |
Imabari City | None in particular |
Fukuoka City | (Program to Promote Startups by Foreign Nationals / Projects for Encouraging Foreign Entrepreneurs to Start Business) This program may strengthen the global competitiveness of Fukuoka City’s industries and increase employment. It belongs to the following sectors: knowledge-creation industry (semiconductor-related, software development, content development, robot-related, etc.) Health, medical, and welfare industries (drug development venture, medical technology development, regenerative medicine, development of welfare-related equipment, etc.) Environment and energy industries (clean energy development, next-generational power storage technology, geoinformation system, etc.) Logistics industry (global SCM service, 3PL service, international courier service, drone logistics development, etc.) Trade industry (a business that contributes to developing overseas sales channels for products made within the city, a business that utilizes the functions of Hakata Port and Fukuoka Airport, etc.) Note: In terms of the trade industry, the business must be of a novel nature and must make a significant contribution to the growth of businesses within the city) |
Kitakyushu City | Contributes to Kitakyushu City’s new growth strategy as defined in the city’s comprehensive strategy for the creation of its town, people, and employment In addition to the above, other businesses particularly approved by the Mayor as contributing to strengthening the global competitiveness of the city’s industries and enhancing the city’s position as a global economic hub. |
Oita Prefecture | Automobiles; electronics / electricity / machines; materials manufacturing / shipbuilding; health / medicine / welfare; environment / energy; food / agriculture / forestry / fisheries; service; information; aviation; logistics; etc |
Things to Note:
Limited Period of Stay: The Startup Visa is valid for 6 months to 1 year, after which you need to convert it to a Business Manager Visa or another appropriate visa. This limited period is designed to help entrepreneurs get their businesses off the ground quickly.
Conversion to Business Management Visa: Starting with a Startup Visa is often easier, but entrepreneurs will eventually need to apply for the more intricate Business Management Visa. This process involves meeting additional requirements and providing further documentation to demonstrate business viability.
Municipality-specific Restrictions: Each municipality has unique restrictions and requirements. For example, Shibuya City conducts regular interviews to ensure your business progresses. It’s crucial to stay informed about these local regulations to maintain your visa status.
Contact ULPA for expert help launching
your Business in Japan
Benefits of a Startup Visa:
Lower Barrier to Start a Business in Japan: The Startup Visa program simplifies the process for aspiring entrepreneurs by reducing initial requirements, such as lower financial thresholds and not needing a physical office immediately.
Access to Local Networks and Resources: Japan’s startup visa program offers numerous networking events, coaching programs, and resources to help startups succeed. These initiatives provide valuable opportunities to connect with local businesses, investors, and mentors.
Wide Range of Financial Support: Various subsidies and incentives are available to alleviate financial pressures on new businesses. This support underscores Japan’s commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship, making it easier for startups to thrive.
To demystify the visa process, the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) assists applicants through its local offices in Kyoto and Kobe. Use the JETRO contact form here to get more details.
Practical Advice for Living and Doing Business in Japan
Understanding Japanese Business Etiquette
Successfully doing business in Japan requires more than just obtaining the correct visa. It's essential to understand the nuances of Japanese business etiquette, which emphasizes respect, harmony, and meticulousness. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
Punctuality: Always be on time for meetings and appointments. Punctuality is a sign of respect and reliability.
Business Etiquette: Use formal titles and polite language. Business cards (meishi) are exchanged with great care, using both hands.
Hierarchy: Japanese companies often have a strict hierarchical structure. Understanding and respecting this hierarchy is crucial.
Decision-Making: Decisions may take longer due to the consensus-driven approach. Patience and persistence are essential.
Contact ULPA for expert help launching
your Business in Japan
Setting Up a Business
If you apply for a Business Manager Visa, you must establish your business in Japan. Here are the steps to follow:
Choose a Business Structure: Kabushiki Kaisha (KK) and Godo Kaisha (GK) are common structures. KK is similar to a corporation, while GK is akin to a limited liability company.
Register Your Company: Submit the necessary documents to the Legal Affairs Bureau, including the Articles of Incorporation and proof of office space.
Open a Bank Account: You need a Japanese bank account to handle business transactions and investments.
Hire Employees: Ensure that your hiring practices comply with Japanese labour laws. It's also essential to understand the local employment culture and expectations.
Navigating Legal and Tax Requirements
Understanding the legal and tax requirements is critical for running a successful business in Japan.
Corporate Tax: Resident entities are subject to corporate tax on worldwide income, with an effective tax rate of approximately 30-35%.
Personal Income Tax: Progressive tax rates apply, with higher rates for higher income brackets.
Social Insurance: Employers must enrol employees in social insurance programs, including health insurance and pension schemes.
Compliance: Ensure compliance with all local regulations, including annual filings and tax declarations.
Networking and Building Relationships
Building solid relationships is critical to business success in Japan. Here are some tips:
Join Business Associations: Organizations like the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) and local chambers of commerce can provide valuable networking opportunities.
Attend Events: Participate in industry conferences, trade shows, and networking events to meet potential partners and clients.
Build Trust: Build long-term relationships based on trust and mutual respect. This often involves socializing outside of work, such as attending dinners or social events.
Obtaining a business visa in Japan requires careful planning, detailed documentation, and a thorough understanding of the application process. By following the guidelines outlined in this guide and preparing adequately, you can enhance your chances of securing a business visa and successfully establishing your presence in Japan's dynamic business environment. Whether you're an entrepreneur looking to start a new venture or an executive planning an extended stay, Japan offers many opportunities for business growth and success.
For more information and personalized assistance, consider consulting with registered immigration experts in Japan and legal professionals specialising in Japanese visa applications. Ulpa has a range of services to help you navigate starting a company in Japan, and we would be happy to assist you in this process. With the right preparation and support, you can navigate the complexities of Japan's visa system and take full advantage of the opportunities available in this vibrant and innovative market.
FAQ Section
Can I work with a Business Visa in Japan?
No, a standard Business Visa does not allow you to engage in paid work. That kind of visa is only intended for people engaging in meetings, conferences, or similar activities while in Japan for a limited period of time. If you intend to engage in paid work, you must apply for a relevant work visa, such as a Business Manager Visa or a Highly Skilled Professional Visa.
How long does it take to get a Business Manager Visa in Japan?
The processing time for a Business Manager Visa can vary. Still, it typically takes 1-3 months to obtain a Certificate of Eligibility and 5-10 business days to apply at the Japanese embassy or consulate.
Can I bring my family with me on a Business Manager Visa?
Yes, Business Manager Visa holders can sponsor their spouse and children for dependent visas, allowing them to live in Japan.
What happens if my visa application is denied?
If your visa application is denied, it's essential to understand the reasons for denial. Address issues, gather robust supporting documentation, and consider reapplying with a more precise and detailed application.
Is it necessary to speak Japanese to obtain a Business Manager Visa?
While speaking Japanese to obtain a business visa is not a formal requirement, having Japanese language skills can significantly ease setting up and running a business in Japan, although, without a doubt, it makes integration into the Japanese world a lot smoother.
Ready to learn how to launch, integrate and scale your business in Japan?
Download our intro deck and contact ULPA today to understand how we will help your company learn the rules of business in Japan, and then redefine those rules.
Let The Adventure Begin.
Kommentare