Japan Startup Visa: Full Guide To Apply

The Japan Startup Visa opens doors for foreign entrepreneurs to launch their businesses in Japan’s dynamic market. This program simplifies the path for founders, offering support in industries like fintech, robotics, and agriculture.

What makes the Japan Startup Visa special? It’s more than just a residency permit—it’s a gateway to Japan’s startup ecosystem. With extended visa durations, reduced initial requirements, and tailored support from local municipalities, the program simplifies the process of starting a business abroad.

If you want to access Japan’s advanced tech, local resources, and global opportunities, this guide from the Launchroad blog covers everything you need to start your journey.

What is Japan Startup Visa Program?

The Japan Startup Visa aims to foster innovation and attract global talent by offering a supportive environment for starting and growing businesses. Unlike other visa categories, the Startup Visa is tailored specifically for founders, providing the flexibility to launch a business without needing a physical office or a large initial investment.

One key benefit of the program is its flexibility in residency requirements. Entrepreneurs can stay in Japan for up to a year, and recent changes have extended this to 2 years, making it easier to focus on business development. The Japan Startup Visa also supports entrepreneurs by allowing time for market research and business planning.

Plus, once a business is established, it offers a clear pathway to a Business Management Visa, helping entrepreneurs continue their journey. This visa is not just about bringing in new businesses—it’s about contributing to Japan’s growing startup ecosystem.

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Japan Startup Visa Requirements and Eligibility

Applicants must meet certain criteria to qualify for the Japan Startup Visa. The program mainly targets aspiring entrepreneurs, international students, and digital innovators who want to start a business in Japan. 

Eligibility Criteria:

• You must be an entrepreneur or someone with a strong business idea.
• The program also targets international students or digital innovators seeking to build their startups in Japan.
• Businesses in industries like fintech, IT, and agricultural technology are particularly encouraged.

Necessary Documentation:

• A New Business Implementation Plan, outlining your business idea and strategy.
• Your resume and proof of residence for at least 6 months.
• Financial proof to show you can sustain yourself and your business during the startup phase.

Application Process:

1. Prepare your documents: Gather your business plan, resume, proof of residence, and financial proof.
2. Submit your application: You can submit it directly to local visa agencies or through a proxy in Japan.
3. Approval and Timeline: The approval process typically takes about a month, after which you will receive a Business Start-up Confirmation Certificate.

Once your application is approved, you can begin your journey to start a business in Japan with the Startup Visa.

Role of Local Municipalities in Supporting Entrepreneurs

Local municipalities play a key role in making the Japan Startup Visa program successful for foreign entrepreneurs. Each participating municipality offers tailored support to help you start and grow your business in Japan, including assistance with visa applications, business setup consultations, and resources to get your venture off the ground.

Visa Application Assistance

Municipalities help guide entrepreneurs through the visa application process, ensuring all necessary documents are submitted and the steps are clearly understood.

Business Setup Consultations

Local governments provide expert advice on legal, financial, and business-related matters, helping entrepreneurs navigate Japan’s business landscape.

Temporary Office Spaces and Resources

Many municipalities offer free or subsidized office spaces, making it easier for entrepreneurs to establish a base of operations without significant upfront costs. These spaces often come with additional resources like legal and accounting consultations.

Focus Areas by Municipality

Tokyo and Shibuya:

These areas are open to a wide range of businesses, from tech startups to creative ventures. Tokyo’s vibrant market offers endless opportunities for entrepreneurs looking to tap into diverse industries.

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Fukuoka City:

Known for its focus on fintech and health tech, Fukuoka is an ideal location for entrepreneurs aiming to innovate in financial services or healthcare solutions.

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Osaka City:

A hub for manufacturing and life sciences, Osaka offers strong support for businesses in industries like robotics, automation, and biotechnology.

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Kyoto Prefecture:

Kyoto is at the forefront of AI, IoT, and energy solutions, offering resources to entrepreneurs seeking to develop cutting-edge technologies in these fields.

Hamamatsu City:

Specializing in manufacturing startups, Hamamatsu offers grants and business-matching services to support ventures in the industrial and technology sectors.

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Recent Updates to the Japan Startup Visa Program

The Japan Startup Visa program has undergone significant updates to make it even more accessible and supportive for foreign entrepreneurs.

Planned Visa Duration Extension to Two Years

Previously, the Japan Startup Visa allowed foreign entrepreneurs to stay for up to one year. However, the program is set to extend this duration to 2 years. 

This extension provides more time for entrepreneurs to establish their businesses, conduct market research, and build a solid foundation in Japan without the immediate pressure of securing large investments or physical office spaces. This change greatly benefits founders by giving them a longer runway to set up and grow their startups.

Involvement of Private Entities in the Visa Screening Process

Another key update is the involvement of private entities, such as venture capitalists and startup accelerators, in the visa screening process. This collaboration means that more experienced professionals will help assess and support applicants’ entrepreneurial potential. 

It also opens the door to more personalized guidance, ensuring that businesses are better prepared for success in Japan’s competitive market.

Why These Changes Matter

These updates are excellent news for foreign entrepreneurs. The extended visa duration gives more flexibility and reduces time constraints, while private entities’ involvement adds expertise to the visa process. Together, these changes make the Japan Startup Visa program a more attractive and practical option for entrepreneurs looking to launch their businesses in Japan’s thriving innovation ecosystem.

Application Process for the Japan Startup Visa

The application process is straightforward, but it requires careful planning. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process.

Step 1: Prepare Your Business Plan

Start by drafting a clear and detailed Business Plan. This plan should outline your business goals, market research, and how you plan to establish your company in Japan. It should reflect the specific industry you’re targeting and demonstrate the potential for success.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

You will need the following documents to apply:

• Passport
• Resume (with relevant experience)
• Proof of residence (for at least 6 months)
• Proof of financial means to support yourself during the startup phase

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Step 3: Submit Your Application

Once your documents are ready, submit your application with documents to a local visa agency or through a proxy. Some municipalities may have additional requirements based on the business sector you’re targeting.

Step 4: Work with Local Authorities

Local authorities, such as those in Fukuoka, Tokyo, and Osaka, will assist you throughout the process. They’ll help you refine your business plan, answer questions, and provide resources like office space or legal advice.

Step 5: Interview and Approval

After submitting your application, you may be asked for an interview. The local immigration office will review your documents and business plan, and once it is approved, you’ll receive a Business Start-up Confirmation Certificate. This certificate is required to complete your visa application.

Step 6: Visa Issuance

Once your application is approved, you can proceed to apply for the Japan Startup Visa. If all goes smoothly, you will receive your visa, allowing you to live and work in Japan as you build your business.

Post-Startup Visa Opportunities

After successfully establishing your business under the Japan Startup Visa, the next step is to explore the transition to a Business Management Visa, which will allow you to expand and grow your venture in Japan.

Transitioning to the Business Management Visa

Business Management Visa is typically granted to entrepreneurs who have established their businesses and demonstrated the potential for continued growth and revenue generation. It’s an essential step for entrepreneurs looking to make Japan their long-term business home.

Building Long-Term Ventures in Japan

With this Visa, you’ll be free to scale your business, hire employees, and further invest in Japan’s market. You can leverage Japan’s advanced infrastructure, skilled workforce, and support systems to build a sustainable business that thrives in the local and global market.

Additional Support After the Startup Phase

Local municipalities play a key role even after your business is up and running. They continue to offer valuable resources, such as:

• Ongoing business support: Access to business consultations and networking opportunities.
• Funding and grants: Some regions may provide grants or additional funding opportunities to help your business grow.
• Market expansion resources: Assistance in connecting with investors, local partners, and new markets.

These post-visa resources and opportunities help ensure that your business doesn’t just survive but thrives in Japan’s competitive and innovative startup ecosystem.

Role of Launchroad in The Seccess of Your Startup Visa

LaunchRoad is your trusted partner for starting a business abroad. We guide you in choosing the right country, understanding visa requirements, and getting your startup off the ground. As an experienced startup visa consultant, we offer expert startup visa consultation to help you navigate the complexities of international expansion. Our team provides the support, mentorship, and resources you need to succeed in the global market.