Guide to the Startup Visa (Designated Activities No. 44) in Kumamoto

Launch Your Business in Japan with Shionaga Gyoseishoshi Law Office

Typically, a foreigner wishing to start a business in Japan must obtain a “Business Manager” visa. However, the requirements for this are high: you must secure an office and invest at least 5 million JPY before applying.

To lower these hurdles, the “Startup Visa” (Designated Activities No. 44) was created. It allows founders to reside in Japan for up to one year specifically to prepare for their business launch.

1. What is the Startup Visa?

This visa is part of the “Program to Increase Foreign Entrepreneurs” conducted by specific local governments. It allows you to enter Japan first and spend 6 to 12 months handling the essentials—securing funding, signing office leases, and networking—before meeting the strict requirements of a standard Business Manager visa.

Note: Applications require “confirmation” from a certified municipality, such as Kumamoto City. Requirements vary slightly depending on the local government’s specific policies.

2. Key Requirements and the 3-Step Process

To obtain a Startup Visa, you must clear the following stages:

Step 1: Submission of the “Entrepreneurial Activity Plan” You submit a detailed plan to the local government (e.g., Kumamoto City). They evaluate:
- Feasibility: Is the business viable and relevant to the local economy?
- Financial Grounding: Do you have personal living expenses and initial business capital?
- Growth Potential: Is there a clear path to transitioning to a full “Business Manager” visa?
Step 2: Issuance of the “Confirmation Certificate” If the municipality approves your plan, they issue a Certificate of Confirmation. This is the “key” to your visa.
Step 3: Application to Immigration You submit the certificate to the Immigration Bureau to receive your Designated Activities No. 44 status.

3. Duration and Transition to Permanent Business Status

Initial Period: 6 months.
Extension: An additional 6 months (Total 1 year maximum). During this year, you are expected to complete company registration, secure the 5 million JPY capital, lease a permanent office, and obtain necessary business licenses.

4. Major Advantages of the Startup Visa

Solve the “Chicken or Egg” Problem: It is difficult to rent an office or open a bank account without a Residence Card. This visa gives you the legal status to handle these logistics smoothly.
Professional Mentorship: You can receive ongoing support from local government agencies and certified support institutions like our firm.

5. Startup Support by Shionaga Gyoseishoshi Law Office

The success of a Startup Visa application depends on the precision of the business plan, not just legal paperwork.

Business Plan Drafting: We create high-quality, feasible plans that align with what local governments and Immigration officials are looking for.
One-Stop Incorporation: Once the visa is secured, we handle company establishment, business licenses (Construction, Food Services, etc.), and financing.
Certified Support Agency: As a Certified Management Innovation Support Provider, we provide financial advice and help you apply for Japanese government subsidies.

Start Your Journey in Kumamoto with Us

With the massive growth of the semiconductor industry (TSMC/JASM), Kumamoto has become a land of opportunity for international startups. Don’t let language barriers or complex bureaucracy stop you. We are your partner in navigating the legal landscape and ensuring your business succeeds.

Shionaga Gyoseishoshi Law Office 📍 Chuo-ku, Kumamoto City, Japan 📞 096-385-9002 📩 info@shionagaoffice.jp

Initial consultations and eligibility assessments are now available. Contact us to book your appointment.