Establishing a Business in Japan: A Comprehensive Guide

Follow this step-by-step breakdown:
Details in Japanese

Step 1: Determine Your Business Structure Choosing the right legal entity is crucial. Common structures include:

• Kabushiki Kaisha (KK): A joint-stock company similar to a corporation, ideal for scaling.
• Godo Kaisha (GK): A limited liability company (LLC), offering streamlined setup.

Step 2: Selecting a Unique Company Name Your business name must comply with Japan’s corporate regulations and must not duplicate existing registered entities.

Step 3: Appointing Directors and Shareholders Foreign nationals can serve as both shareholders and directors. Required documents include ID verification and financial details. Need a Japanese bank account?

If applying for a Business Manager Visa, specific immigration regulations apply.

Step 4: Register a Business Address A legitimate office space is mandatory for Business Manager Visa applicants. Virtual offices are generally not accepted. Read more on office requirements.

Step 5: Acquire a Company Seal (Inkan) A registered company seal is required for official documentation and banking.

Step 6: Drafting the Articles of Incorporation The Articles define your company’s operations, structure, and capital investment. A notarization process is required for completion.

Step 7: Company Registration Submit all required documents to the Legal Affairs Bureau. Professional support from an experienced legal advisor is recommended.

Step 8: Registering for Tax and Insurance Enrollment for corporate tax, consumption tax, and social insurance is mandatory.

Step 9: Securing Business Licenses Some industries require specific permits before commencing operations.

Step 10: Opening a Business Bank Account A corporate account is essential for financial operations. Having a director with a Japanese residential registration certificate (Juminhyo) can ease this process.

Need Expert Assistance? Japan’s legal framework is dynamic. Professional consultation ensures full compliance with regulatory changes.

Meet Our Immigration Consultant

Masakazu Murai
Immigration Consultant, Financial Advisor
18+ years of investment banking experience at Mitsubishi UFJ Morgan Stanley, advising over 500 entrepreneurs.

Credentials:
Gyoseishoshi Immigration Lawyer
CMA (Japanese Financial Analyst License)
CFP (Certified Financial Planner)
MBA in Entrepreneurship (Hosei Business School)

CONTACT US TODAY