Startup Visa Program in Tokyo: Comprehensive Support by Continental Immigration
Startup Visa Program in Tokyo:
Comprehensive Support by Continental Immigration
Program Overview
The Startup Visa allows entrepreneurs to enter Japan and prepare for establishing a business. Under this scheme, applicants are initially granted a residence status for up to one year (Specified Activities: 特定活動44号 or 45号) to set up their business, secure office space, open bank accounts, and establish operational stability to obtain a business Manager visa（経営・管理ビザ）.
The office administering Tokyo’s Startup Visa Program is located within the JETRO headquarters in Akasaka, Tokyo. This office offers the highest capabilities nationwide and is conveniently within walking distance from Continental Immigration’s office. This proximity enables very close and effective communication. In addition to Tokyo, similar startup visa programs—based on METI regulations—are also available in major regional cities throughout Japan.
Eligible Applicants
This visa is suitable for:
- Individuals planning to start and manage a new business in Tokyo.
Especially for:
Those who do not have a Japanese national or permanent resident to assist with company establishment, and therefore need to prepare for starting a business while residing in Japan.If you already have a local supporter in Japan, click here: here
- Those possessing relevant academic qualifications, professional experience, or prior management history.
- Entrepreneurs who have the necessary financial resources to support their living and business expenses.
Note: Applicants with proven educational background, relevant work experience, or previous business management experience have a distinct advantage during the screening process.
FAQ: Key Requirements
- Financial Criteria: You must prove that you have sufficient capital and living expenses for the first year.
- Example 1: Capital ¥5 million + Living expenses ¥3.6 million (¥300,000/month) = Minimum ¥8.6 million (In practice, a bank balance of at least ¥10 million is recommended.)
- Example 2: Capital ¥9 million + Living expenses ¥6 million (¥500,000/month) = Minimum ¥15 million (Ditto)
- Having additional funds is always beneficial.
- Residence in Japan: Options include rental apartments, long-term hotel stays, or living with relatives/friends. Continental Immigration can verify these arrangements in advance with Tokyo Government officers.
Application Process
- Initial consultation and document review with Continental Immigration.
- Submission of Startup Visa application to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government.
- Approval (typically 1-2 months processing time).
- Afterward, application for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) for the Startup Visa (Specified Activities No. 44 or 45) to the Immigration Bureau, attaching the approval certificate from the Tokyo Government.
The Immigration Bureau’s screening process typically takes 1–3 months, though this timeframe is subject to change. - Enter Japan under the residence status “Specified Activities No. 44 or 45,”
- then proceed with preparations to change to a Business Manager Visa, such as incorporating a company and renting office space within the first year.
- Application for a change of status to Business Manager Visa. The spouse will obtain a Dependent Visa.
Services Provided by Continental Immigration
- Verification and advice on legal requirements.
- Business plan preparation by a former investment banker.
- Support for entry to Japan (SUV residence setup).
- Company establishment after entry, including introductions to rental offices and assistance in opening personal bank accounts.
- Support for changing from Startup Visa to Business Manager Visa.
Estimated Fees
| Service | Estimated Cost (JPY) |
|---|---|
| Startup Visa Application (Specified Activities 44 or 45) | ¥300,000 – ¥400,000 (within 3000USD) |
| Change to Business Manager Visa | ¥250,000 – ¥350,000 (within 2500USD) |
| Company Incorporation with Gov tax | ¥400,000～ (depends on the capital amounts) |
| Family members (per person) | Approx. ¥100,000 |
| Total Estimate | ¥800,000 – ¥1,300,000 (depending on business type and family, within 10,000 USD) |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Do I need to show a specific minimum bank balance for the Startup Visa?
There is no fixed minimum amount, but in practice, a bank balance of at least ¥10 million is recommended to cover initial capital and living expenses for the first year.
2. Can my spouse and children accompany me on the Startup Visa?
Yes, your spouse and dependent children can accompany you under the Dependent (Family Stay) visa status. Each family member’s visa application should be submitted along with your application.
3. How long does it take to receive the Startup Visa approval from Tokyo and the Immigration Bureau?
After submission, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government typically takes around 1-2 months to review and issue approval. Following this, the Immigration Bureau usually requires an additional 1-3 months to process the Certificate of Eligibility (COE). Timelines may vary based on individual circumstances.
Meet Our Expert
Masakazu Murai
With 18 years of investment banking experience at Mitsubishi UFJ Morgan Stanley, Masakazu Murai has advised over 500 entrepreneurs and executives. He specializes in business visa applications, permanent residency consultations, and financial advisory for foreign entrepreneurs in Japan.
- Gyoseishoshi Immigration Lawyer,
Co-head of Tokyo Gyoseishoshi Association Minato Branch - CMA (Certified Financial Analyst – Japan)
- CFP (Certified Financial Planner)
- MBA in Entrepreneurship