Kyoto Startup Visa (Japan) — Complete 2025-2026 Guide for Foreign Entrepreneurs

If you want to start a business in Japan but are not yet ready to meet the full Business Manager requirements, Kyoto Prefecture’s Startup Visa program (officially: Foreign Entrepreneurship Activity Promotion Program) provides a structured pathway.

Kyoto Prefecture received authorization under Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) startup visa framework and operates this program through the Kyoto Overseas Business Center (a collaborative support desk). Eligible foreign entrepreneurs can stay in Japan under Designated Activities (Startup Preparation) status while preparing to meet the Business Manager requirements within a defined timeframe.

This article explains the system in detail—overview, eligibility, Kyoto’s conditions, target industries, required documents, application procedures, timelines, and key compliance points—so you understand what is needed before you apply.

What is the “Startup Visa” in Kyoto Prefecture?

In Kyoto, foreign entrepreneurs must normally satisfy substantial requirements (such as an office, employees, and capitalization) when applying for the Business Manager status. Under the Startup Visa program, Kyoto Prefecture reviews a foreign entrepreneur’s startup preparation plan first and issues a Certificate of Confirmation of Startup Preparation Activity Plan if the plan is deemed suitable for strengthening industrial competitiveness and forming an international economic base.

Once issued, the certificate can be used to apply for the Designated Activities residence status at the Regional Immigration Bureau. Immigration makes the final decision on the residence status; Kyoto’s confirmation supports but does not guarantee approval.

Who can use this program?

Kyoto Prefecture states the program is for:

• Foreign nationals who intend to start a new business within Kyoto Prefecture.

The Kyoto Overseas Business Center’s guidance indicates applicants can be those currently overseas or residing in Japan under another valid status.

Target business fields in Kyoto Prefecture

Kyoto Prefecture defines the eligible business fields for the Startup Visa as those expected to contribute to:

• strengthening international competitiveness of Kyoto’s industries,

• expanding employment,

• circulating benefits to the local economy, and

• developing the region into an international economic hub.

The official target fields include:

1. Manufacturing fields, including traditional and advanced manufacturing

2. AI, IoT, and information & communication technology

3. Environment & energy

4. Life sciences & wellness

5. Social business

6. Culture, art & contents

7. Agriculture, forestry, fisheries, and Kyoto food culture

8. Tourism (excluding tourist souvenir retail and typical restaurants)

9. Other fields recognized by the Governor of Kyoto Prefecture

Applicants should define their planned business (products/services, customers, operations, schedule) and confirm that it fits one of these official fields before applying.

Why Kyoto?

Kyoto is internationally recognized for its combination of deep traditional industries and cutting-edge innovation, supported by strong academic institutions such as Kyoto University and an ecosystem that includes research centers, accelerators, and collaborative hubs.

Foreign entrepreneurs can benefit from:

• globally connected academic research and innovation networks

• support from the Kyoto Overseas Business Center in planning and preparation

• expert advice, incorporation support, and workspace provisions coordinated with local partners

• a city that blends cultural richness with entrepreneurial opportunity

While Kyoto’s official Startup Visa materials focus on the program mechanics, the wider ecosystem (research institutions, accelerators, support networks) enhances the practical environment for launching and scaling a business.

Step-by-step process in Kyoto Prefecture

Step 1: Pre-consultation (required)

Before applying, you must request a pre-consultation with the Kyoto consultation and support desk—typically via email—with your basic details and an outline of your planned business.

This step reviews your business concept and prepares you for the formal application.

Step 2: Startup preparation activity plan support

After pre-consultation, if your business idea is deemed eligible, a concierge from the support desk will assist you in drafting the Startup Preparation Activity Plan.

Step 3: Submit your application for confirmation

Submit all required forms and supporting documents in Japanese or English to the consultation and support desk.

Step 4: Issuance of confirmation certificate

If your plan is confirmed, Kyoto Prefecture issues a Certificate of Confirmation of Startup Preparation Activity Plan. Issuance is generally done in person or by a designated agent (not mailed).

This certificate is typically valid for three months for immigration application purposes.

Step 5: Apply to Immigration for Designated Activities

With the confirmation certificate, apply for the Designated Activities (Startup Preparation) status of residence at the appropriate Regional Immigration Bureau within the certificate’s validity period.

If residing overseas, you may apply through the Osaka Regional Immigration Bureau or the Kyoto Branch Office.

Required documents

Kyoto Prefecture requires applicants to submit the following documents (generally both Japanese and English can be accepted):

• Confirmation application and plan forms (official templates)

• Startup Preparation Activity Plan

• Applicant’s resume

• Letter of commitment

• Address proof (showing residence for 1 year after landing or status change)

• Proof of living expenses (for 1 year and return travel funds if needed)

• Documents proving eligibility under national criteria (e.g., education or management experience)

• Passport copy

• Other documents required by the Governor

After you obtain Designated Activities (Startup Preparation)

Once immigration approves your Designated Activities status, you must:

• Submit the Report of Acquisition (or renewal) of Status of Residence of Designated Activities to the prefecture within 7 days of arrival or status change.

• Carry out the planned startup activities during your stay.

• Attend periodic interviews (at least monthly) to report progress; you may be asked to submit evidence such as office lease contracts, employment agreements, contracts with partners, or bank statements.

If you fail to conduct verified preparation activities or miss required progress checks, your status may be at risk.

Renewal (up to 2 years total) and changes

To extend your Designated Activities status beyond the initial period, you must apply for a Renewal Confirmation Certificate with updated documentation.

Renewals require proof of residence plans and living expense funds for the next period, along with an updated activity plan.

Key compliance points 

• Prefectural confirmation does not guarantee immigration approval.

• Your plan must be substantively credible and feasible within the period allowed.

• Document submissions must meet format and content standards.

• Monthly progress reporting and possible evidence requests are integral to this program.

How our office can help 

Kyoto’s Startup Visa system is not “just forms.” It involves review of business credibility and feasibility.

Trust Administrative Scrivener Office supports foreign entrepreneurs with:

• Business plan structuring tailored to Kyoto’s confirmation criteria

• Document preparation and consistency checks

• Immigration applications (Designated Activities → Business Manager strategy)

• Compliance planning for progress reporting and renewal guidance

References (official sources)

• Kyoto Overseas Business Center: Startup Visa application guidance and process overview.

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