Startup Visa

1. Summary
The Startup Visa program allows foreign entrepreneurs to obtain a special status of residence (Designated Activities) to conduct preparatory activities for starting a business in Japan before fulfilling the rigorous requirements of the standard "Business Manager" visa (e.g., securing an office, investing ¥5 million).
​The total period of stay granted for these preparatory activities is a maximum of two years. This period is typically granted initially for 6 months or 1 year and can be extended upon approval of progress.
Reference URL: Startup Visa / METI Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry


2. Eligibility
The applicant must be a foreign national who:

1. Has created a "Startup Preparation Activity Plan" and has been issued a "Confirmation Certificate" by a certified local government.
2. Is deemed likely to meet the requirements for the "Business Manager" visa (such as the ¥5 million capital investment) within the two-year preparatory period.
3. Possesses sufficient funds to cover their living expenses and business preparation activities while staying in Japan.
4. Meets any specific requirements set by the chosen certified local government.

3. Application Procedure
The application process involves two main stages:

1. Local Government Certification: The applicant submits their "Startup Preparation Activity Plan" to the chosen certified local government. Following a review, the local government issues the Confirmation Certificate if the plan is deemed feasible.
2. Immigration Application: The applicant submits the Confirmation Certificate, along with other necessary documents (application form, passport copies, proof of funds, etc.), to the regional Immigration Services Agency office to apply for or change to the "Designated Activities" status of residence.

Reference URL: STARTUP VISA<br> (Program to Promote Startup Businesses by Foreign Nationals) - Invest Tokyo - Tokyo Metropolitan Government


4. Certified Local Governments List
The following are examples of local governments certified to implement Startup Visa. Requirements and support services vary by municipality.

• Hokkaido Prefecture
• Sendai City
• Semboku City
• Tokyo Metropolitan Government
• Kanagawa Prefecture (including Yokohama City)
• Chiba City
• Narita City
• Tsukuba City
• Niigata City
• Aichi Prefecture
• Osaka Prefecture / Osaka City
• Kyoto Prefecture
• Hyogo Prefecture (including Kobe City)
• Fukuoka City
• Kitakyushu City
• Okinawa Prefecture

Reference URL (For List Confirmation): Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) - Startup Visa Contacts


​ ＠K.Kamitani

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