The “Startup Visa under the National Strategic Special Zones” (National Strategic Special Zone Foreign Entrepreneurial Activity Promotion Project) has been a cornerstone initiative to attract foreign entrepreneurs to Japan. This program allows foreign entrepreneurs to enter Japan under the condition that they are expected to fulfill the requirements for the “Business Manager” visa, such as securing a business office and meeting business scale requirements, within six months of arrival.
In designated National Strategic Special Zones, an additional benefit allows municipalities to approve the use of coworking spaces or similar facilities as business offices for up to one year during the initial visa renewal process. This means foreign entrepreneurs may have up to 18 months to meet the business office requirement.
Now, significant changes are being implemented. As of January 1, 2025, the Ministry of Justice and the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry (METI) have revised relevant regulations to unify the Startup Visa program under the National Strategic Special Zones with the nationwide “Foreign Entrepreneurial Activity Promotion Project” managed by METI. The revisions extend the grace period for fulfilling the two key requirements—securing a business office and meeting business scale standards—from 18 months to a maximum of 2 years. This unified program will be implemented across Japan, making it easier for foreign entrepreneurs to launch their businesses without the previous geographical limitations of the National Strategic Special Zones.
Background of the Reform
The National Strategic Special Zone Foreign Entrepreneurial Activity Promotion Project (hereinafter referred to as the “Special Zone Project”) was initially established under the National Strategic Special Zone Law (Law No. 107 of 2013). It allowed designated municipalities (Special Zone Municipalities) to verify the feasibility and appropriateness of entrepreneurial activity plans. This verification process enabled foreign entrepreneurs to meet landing examination standards and promote entrepreneurial activities within the designated zones.
However, as part of the “Regulatory Reform Implementation Plan” approved by the Cabinet on June 21, 2024, it was decided to unify the Special Zone Project with the nationwide METI-led program. This unification eliminates the need for duplicative procedures and expands the benefits of the program to all regions of Japan. Moreover, the grace period for fulfilling the “business office” and “business scale” requirements has been extended to a maximum of 2 years from the previous 18 months.
Key Changes in the Revised Startup Visa Program
- Nationwide Implementation: The Startup Visa program will now be available across Japan under a unified system, removing the geographical restrictions previously tied to the National Strategic Special Zones.
- Extended Grace Period: Foreign entrepreneurs will now have up to 2 years to fulfill the requirements for securing a business office and meeting the business scale standards.
- Transition from Special Zone Project to Nationwide Program:
- For municipalities currently utilizing the Special Zone Project, the issuance of Entrepreneurial Activity Certification Certificates will continue until the end of 2025.
- Foreign entrepreneurs who receive certification by the end of 2025 can apply for a Certificate of Eligibility for “Business Manager” status until the end of fiscal year 2025.
- The effective period of Entrepreneurial Activity Certification Certificates remains three months, even under the new nationwide framework.
- Impact on Coworking Space Special Provisions: The current provision allowing coworking spaces to be used as business offices during the initial visa renewal process will no longer be necessary under the revised program. The new framework’s extended 2-year grace period eliminates this requirement.
- Support for Foreign Students: Foreign students can now seamlessly transition from a “Student” visa to a “Business Manager” visa under the new program without needing to leave Japan. This simplifies the process for aspiring foreign student entrepreneurs.
Transition Notes for Municipalities and Entrepreneurs
- Municipalities currently not utilizing the Special Zone Project but wishing to support foreign entrepreneurial activities must obtain approval under the METI-led program by the end of 2025.
- Entrepreneurs already residing in Japan under the Special Zone Project will be able to transition to the new nationwide program. Their periods of stay under the Special Zone framework will be aggregated with the new program’s maximum 2-year duration.
- Family members accompanying entrepreneurs under the Special Zone Project will also be eligible for similar transitions, ensuring continuity for dependents.
Conclusion
The nationwide expansion of Japan’s Startup Visa program represents a significant step toward fostering a more inclusive and dynamic environment for foreign entrepreneurs. By unifying and simplifying the system, extending the grace periods for business establishment, and making the program accessible across the country, Japan is positioning itself as a global hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. This reform reflects the government’s commitment to supporting foreign entrepreneurs in their journey to establish and grow businesses in Japan.
For more information, visit the official METI Startup Visa page: https://www.meti.go.jp/policy/newbusiness/startupvisa/index.html.
Startup Visa Support at Trust Administrative Scrivener Office
At Trust Administrative Scrivener Office, we offer support for foreign individuals aiming to obtain the Startup Visa in Japan. We assist throughout the visa application process, business preparation, and visa renewal to ensure a smooth startup experience in Japan. To be a reliable partner for foreign entrepreneurs, we provide the following services:
Support Services
- Startup Visa Application Support
- Advice on business plan development and Japanese translation
- Preparation and submission of application documents
- Support in communication with local governments
- Company Establishment Support
- Company establishment procedures
- Collaboration with other professionals, such as judicial scriveners and labor and social security attorneys
- Residence Status Renewal Procedures
- Support for continuous business development
- Advice on necessary documents and procedures for renewal
Startup Support Full Package
- Fees: Starting from 600,000 yen + actual costs (additional costs such as statutory fees, certificate issuance fees, transportation costs, etc.)
- Support Duration: 8 to 12 months
Detailed fees will be provided based on individual consultations, and plans tailored to your budget and situation can also be proposed.
Our Office’s Strengths
- Flexible Support and Utilization of Local Special Programs: For example, using the certified coworking space in Kitakyushu City allows you to start your business while minimizing initial costs. We provide advice on leveraging such local special programs.
- Professional and Comprehensive Support: We handle everything from residence status applications to company establishment procedures and progress checks, ensuring a smooth process even for newcomers to the Japanese business scene.
- Unlimited Consultation Support: Receive unlimited consultations via email or LINE throughout the support period.
Introduction to Administrative Scriveners
Thank you for reading this article. I am Utsunomiya, the representative administrative scrivener at Trust Administrative Scrivener Office. My mission is to support individuals with dreams and goals in realizing their aspirations in Japan. For those looking to start a business in Japan from abroad, navigating residency requirements can feel overwhelming. I aim to provide clear and approachable guidance to alleviate your concerns and help you start with confidence. We offer a reliable support system for everything from preparing necessary documents to reviewing application details and submitting them online.
We handle procedures related to startup visas, assist with business plan creation, and provide essential information. Additionally, with over ten years of experience as a Japanese language teacher, I can offer Japanese lessons if desired.
As you embark on your new business journey in Japan, I stay updated on the latest systems and regulations to provide you with accurate advice, ensuring a smooth process. If you have any worries or questions along the way, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I am dedicated to supporting you in achieving your goals and look forward to working together to help you succeed in Japan.
I am here to accompany those dreaming of starting a business in Japan and to support the realization of that dream. Thank you for your consideration.
Consultation Information
If you are concerned about obtaining a startup visa or starting a business in Japan, please feel free to consult with Trust Administrative Scrivener Office. We offer the first consultation free of charge, so don’t hesitate to get in touch. At Trust Administrative Scrivener Office, we provide thorough support from initial consultations to specific procedures, ensuring that foreign entrepreneurs can confidently start their businesses in Japan. We are committed to assisting you in your preparations for launching a business, so please reach out to us.
Contact Us
Office Name: Trust Administrative Scrivener Office
Administrative Scrivener: Keiko Utsunomiya
Email: info@trust-gyosei.com
Address：3F-1-1-1 Kajimachi, Kokurakita-ku, Kitakyushu-shi, Fukuoka, Japan