【2026 Latest Guide】Setting Up a Company in Japan for Foreign Entrepreneurs

Comprehensive Guide to Procedures, Documents, and Business Manager Visa (Focus on Real Estate, Construction, and Travel)

Introduction

As of October 16, 2025, the requirements for the “Business Manager” (Keiei-Kanri) Visa have been significantly tightened. To successfully start a business in 2026, you must meet the following new criteria:

Requirement	2026 Standard (Post-Amendment)
Capital / Investment	30 million JPY or more (Increased from 5 million)
Full-time Staff	At least 1 full-time employee (Enrollment in Social Insurance is mandatory)
Japanese Language	Applicant or the full-time employee must have JLPT N2 level or higher
Business Plan	Must include a Confirmation Letter from a CPA or SME Consultant
Office Space	Physical office required. Virtual offices are strictly prohibited.

Administrative Scrivener Corporation Shionaga Office (Kumamoto & Nationwide) provides one-stop support for company registration, visa applications, and industry-specific licenses.

1. Industry-Specific Licensing Points

In addition to the visa, specific businesses require “Business Licenses” (Kyokaninka).

Real Estate (Brokerage): Requires a “Real Estate Transaction License.” You must appoint a “Full-time Real Estate Transaction Specialist” for every 5 employees.
Construction: Requires a “Construction Business License.” Requires a “Manager with Management Experience” and a “Full-time Technician” at each office. Social insurance is a strict requirement for this license.
Travel Agency: Requires registration with the Japan Tourism Agency or Prefectural Governor. A “Certified Travel Service Manager” must be appointed, and a “Minimum Net Asset” must be maintained (aligned with the 30M JPY capital requirement).

2. The 5 Keys to Approval in 2026

Transparency of Funds: Rigorous checking of the source of the 30 million JPY capital.
Expert Validation: Professional validation of your business plan’s sustainability.
Communication Ability: Proof of N2 level Japanese proficiency.
Social Insurance: Proof of health insurance and pension enrollment for your employee.
Office Reality: Detailed photos showing a dedicated, independent office space.

📞 Contact Us

Administrative Scrivener Corporation Shionaga Office

Location: 1-9-6 Suizenji, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto City, Japan
Email: info@shionagaoffice.jp
First Consultation: Free (Online available)