Japan has many business opportunities for foreigners. In recent years, an increasing number of foreign entrepreneurs have been expanding their businesses into the Japanese market. There are three primary ways for foreign companies to establish a presence in Japan:
1️⃣ Establishing a Representative Office – Primarily for market research and administrative tasks, but not permitted to engage in revenue-generating activities.
2️⃣ Setting Up a Branch Office – A foreign company’s legally recognized extension in Japan that can engage in business activities.
3️⃣ Incorporating a Subsidiary (Japanese Corporation) – Establishing a separate legal entity in Japan, such as a Kabushiki Kaisha (KK) or Godo Kaisha (GK), providing greater flexibility and independence.
Foreign entrepreneurs without a business in Japan need to set up a company and get the right visa.
A new visa option is available. It is called the “Start-Up Visa.” This visa helps foreign entrepreneurs start businesses in Japan. This visa is available in designated regions and offers a more straightforward pathway to entry.
Below, we will explain the types of visas you can get. We will also cover the requirements for starting a company. Finally, we will share important information about running a business in Japan.
Business Opportunities for Foreigners and Entrepreneurs with High Success
1. Tourism & Inbound Business
Japan remains one of the world’s top tourist destinations. With the weaker yen attracting a surge of foreign visitors, the tourism sector presents lucrative opportunities for foreign entrepreneurs.
Profitable Business Models
- Tour Guide Services for Foreigners (specialized and cultural experience tours)
- Managing Vacation Rentals & Guesthouses (especially in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Hokkaido)
- Airport Transfer & VIP Chauffeur Services (high-end private transportation)
- Japanese Culinary Experiences (sushi-making, ramen workshops, sake tasting)
Key Success Factors
- Providing multilingual support (English, Chinese, and other major languages)
- Leveraging personal and online networks to attract foreign customers
- Offering tailored experiences that cater to international visitors
2. Import Business (Trade & E-commerce)
Foreign entrepreneurs can leverage their international supply chain connections to import and sell niche products that are not easily available in Japan.
Profitable Business Models
- Importing and selling organic & health foods
- Luxury wine & whiskey distribution
- Cross-border e-commerce (Amazon, Shopify, Rakuten, etc.)
- Fashion & apparel brand representation
Key Success Factors
- Understanding Japan’s preference for high-quality, safe, and premium products
- Using digital marketing (SNS, YouTube, LINE ads) to boost sales
- Balancing B2B and B2C distribution for optimal profitability
3. IT & Digital Services (Global Market Focus)
Japan’s IT industry is competitive, but foreign entrepreneurs can find success by targeting international markets from Japan.
Profitable Business Models
- Online Japanese language learning platforms
- Web & mobile app development
- Influencer marketing & content creation businesses
- Online media covering Japanese pop culture (anime, manga, gaming, etc.)
Key Success Factors
- Focusing on international markets to avoid local competition
- Starting with low capital and scaling up digitally
- Monetizing through ads, subscriptions, and e-commerce integrations
4. Expat Support & Lifestyle Services
As Japan attracts more foreign professionals, services that help expatriates navigate life in Japan are increasingly in demand.
Profitable Business Models
- Real estate services for foreign residents (rental assistance, investment guidance)
- Business setup & visa consulting (Business Manager Visa, Start-Up Visa assistance)
- International job placement services
- Cross-cultural matchmaking & networking events
Key Success Factors
- Solving bureaucratic challenges that many foreigners face
- Providing multilingual support for a diverse clientele
- Building credibility through personal experience and professional expertise
Essential Requirements for Establishing a Business in Japan
Business Address Registration
- A properly leased office is required for business registration.
- Virtual offices and home addresses are generally not accepted.
- JETRO provides furnished office spaces with up to 50 days of free use for qualifying businesses.
Meeting One of the Following Criteria
To obtain a Business Manager Visa, at least one of the following conditions must be met:
- [a] Hire at least two full-time employees who reside in Japan (excluding visa holders under specific categories).
- [b] Invest at least ¥5 million in capital.
- [c] Meet other criteria as recognized by immigration authorities.
For further details, please contact:
📌 Immigration Bureau of Japan
📌 Your nearest Japanese embassy or consulate
Visa Options for Foreign Entrepreneurs in Japan
Foreign entrepreneurs who do not yet hold a Japanese visa will need to obtain either:
1️⃣ The 4-Month Business Manager Visa
2️⃣ The Start-Up Visa (available in select cities like Tokyo, Osaka, Fukuoka)
Existing visa holders should check whether their current visa permits business activities or if a status change is required.
Short-term visa holders (90 days) can engage in preparatory business activities but cannot generate income.
4-Month Business Manager Visa
Introduced in April 2015, this visa allows entrepreneurs to prepare their business operations before arriving in Japan.
✅ Benefits:
- Obtain a residence card & register an address
- Open a bank account
- Complete company incorporation
Upon successful company registration and meeting all requirements, the visa can be extended to a 1-year Business Manager Visa.
Start-Up Visa
The Start-Up Visa was designed to attract foreign entrepreneurs and ease regulatory restrictions. It is currently available in Tokyo, Osaka, Hokkaido, Aichi, Fukuoka, and other regions.
✅ Key Features:
- Valid for 6 months (2 months longer than the Business Manager Visa)
- Requires a Japanese business plan submission
- Issued upon regional government approval & recommendation
Applicants must send their business plans and supporting documents to local agencies. These agencies will then recommend immigration approval.
For official contacts, visit your regional Start-Up Visa office.
Capitalizing on Japan’s Business Opportunities For Foreigners
Tourism, import trade, and IT-based businesses offer the most potential.
Company incorporation provides tax benefits and supports visa acquisition.
Foreign entrepreneurs should leverage their unique strengths and global networks.
🔥 Now is the time to establish your business in Japan and unlock new opportunities!
Free Consultation for Business Manager Visa & Start-Up Support!
We are currently offering free consultations for those interested in the Business Manager Visa and Start-Up Visa programs. We also have information on the Intra-company Transferee Visa if you are interested!
Due to high demand, we may discontinue free consultations soon, so we encourage you to apply early.
👉 Send us an email for a free consultation today!
