【Archived】Nationwide Expansion of Startup Visa in Japan（Updated Policy Available）

The “Startup Visa under the National Strategic Special Zones” (National Strategic Special Zone Foreign Entrepreneurial Activity Promotion Project) has been a cornerstone initiative to attract foreign entrepreneurs to Japan. This project allows foreign entrepreneurs to stay in Japan for a limited period while preparing to start a business, even before satisfying all the requirements for a Business Manager Visa.

However, the system has historically been limited to specific regions designated as National Strategic Special Zones. As part of broader efforts to support foreign entrepreneurship and regional economic growth, the Japanese government has moved toward a nationwide expansion of the Startup Visa framework.

Background of the Reform

The Startup Visa system was introduced to help foreign entrepreneurs who wish to establish businesses in Japan but cannot immediately satisfy the requirements for the Business Manager Visa.

Under the previous framework, participating municipalities were mainly those designated as National Strategic Special Zones. Foreign entrepreneurs who received confirmation from these municipalities could stay in Japan for a preparatory period while working toward company establishment, securing office space, and preparing for Business Manager Visa requirements.

The reform aims to expand this support framework so that foreign entrepreneurs can make use of startup preparation support in more areas of Japan, not only in limited special zones.

Key Changes in the Revised Startup Visa Program

• The Startup Visa framework will be expanded nationwide.
• The maximum preparatory period will be extended.
• Municipalities and approved organizations may support foreign entrepreneurs under the new system.
• Foreign entrepreneurs will be able to use this period to prepare for transition to the Business Manager Visa.

Latest Update – Business Manager Visa Reform

If you plan to apply, or already hold this visa,
start preparing early to align with the new standards.

🔔 Latest Update – Business Manager Visa Reform (Effective October 16, 2025)

Starting October 16, 2025, Japan’s Business Manager Visa will undergo major changes.
The new requirements include ¥30 million capital, at least one full-time employee,
and B2-level Japanese proficiency (JLPT N2) — making the visa stricter and more professional.

For a detailed breakdown of the reform and what it means for you,
👉 Business Manager Visa Reform 2025 – New Rules & Key Takeaways

Transition Notes for Municipalities and Entrepreneurs

• Municipalities currently not utilizing the Special Zone Project but wishing to support foreign entrepreneurial activities must obtain approval under the METI-led program by the end of 2025.
• Entrepreneurs already residing in Japan under the Special Zone Project will be able to transition to the new nationwide program. Their periods of stay under the Special Zone framework will be aggregated with the new program’s maximum 2-year duration.
• Family members accompanying entrepreneurs under the Special Zone Project will also be eligible for similar transitions, ensuring continuity for dependents.

Conclusion

The nationwide expansion of Japan’s Startup Visa program represents a significant step toward fostering a more inclusive and dynamic environment for foreign entrepreneurs. By unifying and simplifying the system, extending the grace periods for business establishment, and making the program accessible across the country, Japan is positioning itself as a global hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. This reform reflects the government’s commitment to supporting foreign entrepreneurs in their journey to establish and grow businesses in Japan.

For more information, visit the official METI Startup Visa page:

Planning a Startup Visa or Business Manager Visa?

Try our free Japan Business Visa Route Navigator first.

This interactive tool helps you understand which visa route may be suitable for your situation
and gives you a general idea of our support fees.

If you need personalized advice, you can book a paid consultation afterward.

Try the Free Beta Tool →

Startup Visa Support at Trust Administrative Scrivener Office

At Trust Administrative Scrivener Office, we provide structured support for foreign entrepreneurs aiming to obtain a Startup Visa in Japan.

Our role is to guide clients through the Startup Visa application process, business preparation, and subsequent residence status procedures, while ensuring clarity, compliance, and realistic planning.

Consultation and Application Process

Please note that all personalized consultations are provided on a paid basis.

To ensure efficient and appropriate guidance, we recommend the following process:

1. Use Our Free Japan Business Visa Route Navigator
   Start by using our interactive diagnostic tool to understand which visa route may be suitable for your situation and to get a general idea of possible support options.
2. Book a Paid Consultation (If You Need Personalized Advice)
   If your case requires individual review, strategy discussion, or professional guidance, you may book a paid consultation (online, in-person, or text-based).
3. Formal Support Proposal
   If you decide to proceed, we will propose an appropriate support plan and fee structure based on your specific case, business type, and complexity.

This process helps both applicants and our office communicate more efficiently and ensures that consultations are focused on your actual situation.

Try the Free Business Visa Navigator →

Book a Paid Consultation →

Introduction to Administrative Scriveners

Thank you for reading this article.
My name is Keiko Utsunomiya, a representative administrative scrivener at Trust Administrative Scrivener Office.

I support foreign individuals and entrepreneurs in navigating Japan’s immigration and administrative procedures, particularly in areas related to startup visas and business establishment.

For those considering starting a business in Japan from abroad, understanding residence status requirements and administrative processes can be challenging. My role is to provide clear, structured guidance so that clients can proceed with realistic expectations and confidence.

In addition to immigration-related procedures, I assist with business plan preparation and coordination with relevant professionals. I also have over ten years of experience as a Japanese language teacher, which allows me to support clients who need language-related assistance as part of their preparation.

I strive to stay up to date with changes in systems and regulations in order to provide accurate and practical information. My goal is to serve as a reliable point of contact for those planning to build their business activities in Japan.

Thank you for taking the time to read this article.