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Startup Visa
JapanJapan•Asia
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Startup Visa

Investment PR PathwayThis visa can lead to permanent residency, the right to live and work here indefinitely without renewing your visa. Dependents Allowed

At a Glance

Processing Time

4 weeks – 2 months

Estimated Cost

JPY ¥50,500–¥51,000

Varies by filing options

Stay Duration

6 months

Renewable

Renewal

Renewable

Family

Dependents allowed

PR Pathway

Yes

Sponsor

No job offer needed

Work

Remote not required

Official Information
Japan flag

Living in Japan

Cost of Living
32% cheaper than United States
Avg Salary¥3,240,000
Quality of Life
181/200
Full Country Guide

Overview

Visa for entrepreneurs starting innovative businesses in participating Japanese municipalities.

Japan's Startup Visa (Designated Activities No. 44) lets foreign entrepreneurs enter Japan under a temporary status to launch a business. Supported by an approved municipality or private organization, holders get up to 2 years to finalize incorporation and meet requirements for a Business Manager visa.

Initial stay is 6 months, renewable in 6-month increments up to a 2-year total. No job offer or upfront capital is required, but applicants need 3 years of management experience (or a Master's/Doctorate) and a viable business plan endorsed by a local sponsor. Spouses may obtain restricted work permission.

This visa is ideal for entrepreneurs with an innovative business plan ready for Japan who need preparation time before meeting the full Business Manager requirements.

Japan

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Cost Breakdown

Single-entry visa feeJPY ¥15,000
Multiple-entry visa feeJPY ¥30,000
Change of status / Extension of stay (at counter)JPY ¥6,000
Change of status / Extension of stay (online)JPY ¥5,500
TotalJPY ¥50,500–¥51,000

Stay & Extensions

Initial grant6 months

Conversion Paths

Visas you can typically switch to from this status.

経営・管理 — Business Manager Visa
Japan flagJapan

経営・管理 — Business Manager Visa

Validity5 years
Processing2–6 months
View Visa Details

Requirements

PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS

Must meet the background requirement: either have at least 3 years of business management/administration experience, or hold a Master's or Doctorate degree in a relevant field.

Must have an innovative business idea and a detailed business plan.

Must be supported by a Japanese municipality or certified private organization with an approved startup support program.

Must demonstrate sufficient financial means to support oneself during the startup phase.

Must intend to transition to a standard Business Manager visa within the startup period (up to 2 years), which requires meeting the new strict criteria (¥30 million capital, 1+ full-time employee, physical office, and professional business plan review).

KEY CRITERIA

Experience

3+ years

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Visa application form

Passport

Photograph

Certificate of Confirmation of Startup Activity

Detailed business plan (market analysis, financial projections)

Resume/CV

Proof of financial stability (bank statements)

Proof of residence plan in Japan

Advantages & Considerations

Key Benefits

  • Lower capital than Business Manager
  • Municipal support
  • Can transition to Business Manager visa

Worth Knowing

  • Limited to participating cities
  • Short initial stay
  • Must show progress

Application Process

1

Prepare a detailed business plan and supporting documents.

2

Submit the business plan to a participating local municipality for review and interview.

3

Obtain a 'Certificate of Confirmation of Startup Activity' from the municipality.

4

Apply for a Certificate of qualification (COE) at a regional immigration office in Japan using the confirmation certificate.

5

Apply for the visa at a Japanese embassy or consulate abroad using the COE.

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