What is the first step for foreign entrepreneurs who are considering setting up a business in Japan?

Make sure you first understand the essential steps required in order to set up a business in Japan, such as establishing a company and obtaining the relevant work visa. 

Once you understand the type of visa you need, you then have your starting point and goal. This will help you understand how the company should be  set up and which documents will be required to lead to a successful visa approval.

Am I eligible as a Highly-Skilled Professional? How can I apply?

This is a common question from highly talented individuals with strong educational and professional backgrounds. Here are some key points to note:

1. Educational Background: International qualifications are generally well-recognized.

2. Professional Experience:

   o Work history is calculated in full months and matched against the points system.

   o It’s important that your past work experience aligns with or is relevant to the job you plan to take on in Japan.

Additionally, the Highly-Skilled Professional visa ties you to a specific employer in Japan. A key requirement is proof of your expected annual salary from this employer after arriving in Japan. Your current overseas income won’t be considered as a basis.

If you believe you meet the criteria, we’re here to guide you through the process. Let us help you take the next step toward a successful application!

It is often said that a Business Plan is required to apply for a Business Manager visa. Why?

A Business Manager visa for an entrepreneur can be granted when your business plan is assessed as contributing to the Japanese economy and society. Since newly established companies do not have any fixed financial statements yet, a business plan will suffice.

Is the Business Plan and/or financial statement required to be written in Japanese?

The Immigration Bureau of Japan accepts documents either in Japanese or English. You can submit documents in English, but we advise attaching a Japanese translation or summary in Japanese as it demonstrates respect for their native language and a cooperative attitude.

My visa application has been rejected by the immigration bureau. How do I move forward?

In the case of disapproval, the Immigration Bureau of Japan will tell you the reason for rejection. So, the first thing to do is to understand the reason for rejection and if possible, amend the error and reapply.

I am considering applying for permanent residency. How should I proceed?

We offer a free initial assessment to evaluate your likelihood of obtaining permanent residency. To begin, please provide the following information:

1. A photo of your residence card

2. A photo of your passport (personal information page)

3. Your work and educational history (including start and end dates for each position or institution, starting from high school graduation; a simple memo is sufficient)

4. Your social insurance enrollment status

5. Your approximate annual income level

Based on this information, we will assess your chances of approval. If the initial assessment indicates promising prospects, we can provide detailed guidance through a paid Zoom consultation. The consultation fee will be discounted if you engage our services for your permanent residency application process.

What is the Acknowledgement letter?

It is the new document, required from as of October 1st, 2021

in order to apply for PR. The immigration bureau request to acknowledge by an applicant that he/she will tell voluntarily in the case if his/her job or marital status may change in the course of the PR application process.

Why should I use professional support?

Professional support will help guide you to the best approach for obtaining a visa in order to do business in Japan. It will also save you both time and money, since the processes for applying for a visa in Japan can be complicated. When you have a professional at your side, your questions and concerns will be answered.