Banking16 min read
How to Start a Business in Japan as a Foreigner (2026)
Complete guide to starting a business in Japan as a foreigner. Business Manager visa, company registration, capital requirements, and common pitfalls.
Published: 1/6/2026•Updated: 1/13/2026
Key Takeaways
- Need ¥5,000,000 capital or 2+ employees
- Business Manager visa required
- Must have physical office
- GK (合同会社) is easier to start than KK
- Process takes 2-4 months total
Can Foreigners Start a Business in Japan?
Yes! Foreigners can start businesses in Japan, but you need:
1. Business Manager Visa (経営・管理)
• Required to run/manage a business
• Need ¥5,000,000+ capital OR 2+ employees
• Must have physical office space 2. Company Registration
• Types: KK (株式会社) or GK (合同会社)
• GK is simpler and cheaper to start
• Can be done in 2-4 weeks Note: If you already have a work visa, you may be able to start a side business with permission.
• Required to run/manage a business
• Need ¥5,000,000+ capital OR 2+ employees
• Must have physical office space 2. Company Registration
• Types: KK (株式会社) or GK (合同会社)
• GK is simpler and cheaper to start
• Can be done in 2-4 weeks Note: If you already have a work visa, you may be able to start a side business with permission.
Business Manager Visa Requirements
Basic Requirements:
• ¥5,000,000 capital (in company account) OR employ 2+ full-time Japanese residents
• Physical office in Japan (home office usually not accepted)
• Clear business plan showing viability
• You'll be managing the business, not just working Documents Needed: 1. Business plan (detailed) 2. Proof of capital 3. Office lease contract 4. Company registration certificate 5. Background (no criminal record)
• ¥5,000,000 capital (in company account) OR employ 2+ full-time Japanese residents
• Physical office in Japan (home office usually not accepted)
• Clear business plan showing viability
• You'll be managing the business, not just working Documents Needed: 1. Business plan (detailed) 2. Proof of capital 3. Office lease contract 4. Company registration certificate 5. Background (no criminal record)
Step-by-Step Process
Starting a Company:
1. Create Articles of Incorporation (定款)
Get notarized (about ¥50,000 for KK)
2. Open Corporate Bank Account
Deposit capital (¥5,000,000+)
3. Register Company
Submit to Legal Affairs Bureau
Cost: ¥60,000-¥150,000 depending on type
4. Get Office
Sign lease for business use
5. Apply for Business Manager Visa
Submit to immigration
Processing: 1-3 months
Total Time: 2-4 months
Total Cost: ¥300,000-¥500,000 (excluding capital)
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. You cannot conduct business activities on a tourist visa. You need a proper work visa or business manager visa.
For the visa, yes. For the business itself, it depends on your industry. The money must stay in the company account, so plan additional funds for initial operations.
For visa purposes, you typically still need a physical office address. Some shared offices/virtual offices may qualify, but a home address usually doesn't.
Last updated: January 13, 2026