What is Japan’s Startup Visa? A Special Visa System for Foreigners to Realize Their Dreams in Japan

Japan’s Startup Visa is a special program designed for foreign entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas to establish their businesses in Japan, aiming to revitalize the regional economy and promote innovation. The introduction of the Startup Visa has been implemented in over 28 countries worldwide, including Japan, where it is gradually expanding as a system to support foreign entrepreneurial activities. In 2022, the Japanese government formulated a “Five-Year Plan for Startup Development,” setting a goal to create 100 unicorn companies. Following the trend of many unicorn companies in the U.S. being founded by immigrants, Japan is also promoting the creation of new businesses by foreign entrepreneurs.

This article provides an overview of Japan’s Startup Visa system, highlights the features of the programs offered in key regions, and discusses the role the system plays. In future articles, we will delve into detailed information about the programs available in various regions, so stay tuned!

Background and Overview of Japan’s Startup Visa System

In Japan, foreign entrepreneurs are expected to invigorate the local economy through their entrepreneurial activities. The Startup Visa system is supported by initiatives such as the “Foreign Entrepreneur Activity Promotion Project” launched in 2015 and the “Foreign Entrepreneur Activity Promotion Project” implemented by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry in 2018. These policies grant foreign entrepreneurs a “Designated Activities Visa” for up to one year, allowing them to prepare for business, conduct market research, and secure funding within Japan. Additionally, during the period of the Designated Activities Visa, entrepreneurs can aim to transition to a “Business Manager Visa,” paving the way for continuous business development.

Benefits of the Startup Visa System

The Startup Visa system provides the following support to help foreigners smoothly start their businesses:

  1. Support in Business Plan Development
    Creating a business plan is essential for entrepreneurs to succeed in Japan. The Startup Visa system offers advice from local experts, helping entrepreneurs build solid plans. This foundation contributes to successful businesses that can benefit the local economy. Our office also provides support in developing business plans.
  2. Living Support
    Adjusting to a new environment can be a significant challenge for foreigners. The Startup Visa offers support in finding housing and overall living assistance, alleviating anxieties. This is particularly reassuring for foreign entrepreneurs considering relocating with their families, allowing them to acclimate to life in Japan more quickly.
  3. Opportunities for Networking
    Building relationships with local businesses and investors is crucial for expanding business in Japan. Networking events and business exchanges held across the country provide opportunities for entrepreneurs and business professionals with similar aspirations to connect, aiding in fundraising and forming business partnerships.

Features of the Startup Visa in Various Regions

Here’s a brief introduction to the support content of the Startup Visa system, highlighting regional characteristics:

Tokyo
Tokyo is the economic and technological center of Japan, making it a popular destination for foreign entrepreneurs aiming to establish startups in IT and fintech. After obtaining a Startup Visa, entrepreneurs in Tokyo have abundant opportunities to present their business plans and directly connect with venture capitalists and major corporations. Additionally, comprehensive living support services for foreigners ensure a smooth transition to life in Tokyo.

Osaka
Osaka offers specialized support programs for startups focused on manufacturing and environmental technology. There are plentiful opportunities for collaboration with local companies, factory tours, and practical experiences, making it an ideal environment for entrepreneurs in the manufacturing sector. Furthermore, a business network spanning the entire Kansai region is accessible, expanding the potential for business growth.

Fukuoka
Fukuoka’s proximity to Asian markets allows for global business expansion. The city actively engages in supporting the settlement of foreign entrepreneurs through the Startup Support Center. By participating in events and networking gatherings organized by the city, entrepreneurs can connect with local residents and business partners, becoming part of a vibrant business community.

Hokkaido
Hokkaido offers programs suitable for businesses focused on tourism, agriculture, and environmental conservation. Entrepreneurs aiming to establish sustainable business models utilizing the rich natural environment can collaborate with local tourism associations and agricultural organizations. Additionally, support for business development utilizing regional resources, including agricultural experience programs, is available, enabling unique businesses specific to Hokkaido.

Kitakyushu
Lastly, let me introduce Kitakyushu City, where our office is located. Kitakyushu is an attractive place for foreign entrepreneurs targeting startups in manufacturing and environmental technology, serving as the economic and cultural hub of the Kyushu region. Compared to Tokyo and Osaka, Kitakyushu has a lower cost of living and is known as a compact city with excellent transportation, allowing for a comfortable lifestyle. It is said that overall living costs in Kitakyushu are about 40% lower than in Tokyo, making it a significant draw for entrepreneurs. After obtaining a Startup Visa, abundant networks and resources for developing businesses in collaboration with local support organizations are available. Furthermore, there are many opportunities to deepen connections with the local community, creating an environment conducive to growing regionally focused businesses.

Achievements and Challenges of the Startup Visa in Japan

As of May 2024, over 716 foreign entrepreneurs have obtained the Startup Visa in Japan, dedicating six months to one year to preparing for business after entering the country. Among them, at least 359 have successfully transitioned to the “Business Manager Visa,” officially launching their businesses in Japan. Many local governments provide support to visa holders, offering assistance to alleviate concerns regarding living and business operations.

However, some local governments have been criticized for lacking English-language information. This information gap can pose a significant hurdle, especially for entrepreneurs living in Japan for the first time. Moving forward, it is important to improve local government support systems and methods of information dissemination to create an environment where more foreign entrepreneurs can confidently start businesses in Japan.

Our office connects foreign entrepreneurs experiencing such anxieties with local governments, supporting them in preparing for their ventures with peace of mind.

Conclusion

Japan’s Startup Visa system offers a well-established framework to support foreign entrepreneurs’ business success. Leveraging regional characteristics, it provides a wide range of assistance, including business plan development, living support, and networking opportunities, paving the way for foreign entrepreneurs to realize their ideas. If you’re interested in starting a business in Japan, consider utilizing the Startup Visa and connecting with the local community to embark on your new challenges in Japan.

Startup Visa Support at Trust Administrative Scrivener Office

At Trust Administrative Scrivener Office, we offer support for foreign individuals aiming to obtain the Startup Visa in Japan. We assist throughout the visa application process, business preparation, and visa renewal to ensure a smooth startup experience in Japan. To be a reliable partner for foreign entrepreneurs, we provide the following services:

Support Services

  1. Startup Visa Application Support
    • Advice on business plan development and Japanese translation
    • Preparation and submission of application documents
    • Support in communication with local governments
  2. Company Establishment Support
    • Company establishment procedures
    • Collaboration with other professionals, such as judicial scriveners and labor and social security attorneys
  3. Residence Status Renewal Procedures
    • Support for continuous business development
    • Advice on necessary documents and procedures for renewal

Startup Support Full Package

  • Fees: Starting from 600,000 yen + actual costs (additional costs such as statutory fees, certificate issuance fees, transportation costs, etc.)
  • Support Duration: 8 to 12 months
    Detailed fees will be provided based on individual consultations, and plans tailored to your budget and situation can also be proposed.

Our Office’s Strengths

  • Flexible Support and Utilization of Local Special Programs: For example, using the certified coworking space in Kitakyushu City allows you to start your business while minimizing initial costs. We provide advice on leveraging such local special programs.
  • Professional and Comprehensive Support: We handle everything from residence status applications to company establishment procedures and progress checks, ensuring a smooth process even for newcomers to the Japanese business scene.
  • Unlimited Consultation Support: Receive unlimited consultations via email or LINE throughout the support period.

Introduction to Administrative Scriveners

日本語教師:宇都宮恵子(Japanese teacher: Utsunomiya keiko)Thank you for reading this article. I am Utsunomiya, the representative administrative scrivener at Trust Administrative Scrivener Office. My mission is to support individuals with dreams and goals in realizing their aspirations in Japan. For those looking to start a business in Japan from abroad, navigating residency requirements can feel overwhelming. I aim to provide clear and approachable guidance to alleviate your concerns and help you start with confidence. We offer a reliable support system for everything from preparing necessary documents to reviewing application details and submitting them online.

We handle procedures related to startup visas, assist with business plan creation, and provide essential information. Additionally, with over ten years of experience as a Japanese language teacher, I can offer Japanese lessons if desired.

As you embark on your new business journey in Japan, I stay updated on the latest systems and regulations to provide you with accurate advice, ensuring a smooth process. If you have any worries or questions along the way, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I am dedicated to supporting you in achieving your goals and look forward to working together to help you succeed in Japan.

I am here to accompany those dreaming of starting a business in Japan and to support the realization of that dream. Thank you for your consideration.

Consultation Information

If you are concerned about obtaining a startup visa or starting a business in Japan, please feel free to consult with Trust Administrative Scrivener Office. We offer the first consultation free of charge, so don’t hesitate to get in touch. At Trust Administrative Scrivener Office, we provide thorough support from initial consultations to specific procedures, ensuring that foreign entrepreneurs can confidently start their businesses in Japan. We are committed to assisting you in your preparations for launching a business, so please reach out to us.


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Office Name: Trust Administrative Scrivener Office
Administrative Scrivener: Keiko Utsunomiya
Email: info@trust-gyosei.com

Address:3F-1-1-1 Kajimachi, Kokurakita-ku, Kitakyushu-shi, Fukuoka, Japan