Setting up a Business in Japan
A Guide to Incorporating a Business in Japan
There are several important factors to consider when establishing a business in Japan. One of the primary decisions and investor must make is determining the business model they wish to use when creating a business entity. Each business model has its own advantages; the model that suits a business best depends upon the immediate and long-term needs of the business itself.
The following links provide an overview of the various business models available to foreign investors, as well as a guide to the legal, regulatory, and incorporation procedures that must be followed when establishing a business in Japan.
Investors can browse each individual section or can download the full report here for reading convenience.
Section 1: Incorporating a Business
This section includes an overview and comparison of each business model, as well as the procedures and guidelines required to establish and register a business.
1.1 Types of Operations in Japan (Choosing a Business Model)
1.2 Comparison of Types of Business Operations
1.3 Procedures for Registering a Business
1.4 Information Listed in the Articles of Incorporation
1.5 Certificate on Registered Company Information
& Company Seal Impression Certificate
1.6 Notifications Required After Registration
1.7 Closure of Branch Offices or Subsidiary Companies
Section 2: Visas & Status of Residence
This section provides an overview of the various entry procedures required to work and live in Japan. This section also includes a description of the types of work visas available to foreign companies, foreign staff, and the family of foreign nationals.
2.2 Relation Between Visa and Status of Residence
2.3 Process from Acquisition of Certificate of Eligibility to Acquisition of Visa
2.5 Temporary Visitor Visa and Status
2.6 Reciprocal Visa Exemptions for Temporary Visitor
2.9 Family Members Accompanying Working Foreign Nationals
2.10 Extension of Period of Stay and Change of Status of Residence
2.11 Points-Based Preferential Immigration Treatment
for Highly-Skilled Foreign Professionals
Section 3: Taxes in Japan
This section discusses the aspects of Japan's tax system that are most relevant to a foreign corporation or individual investing in Japan. Emphasis is placed on corporate tax structures, tax treaties, and personal taxes.
3.1 Overview of Japanese Corporate Tax System for Investment in Japan
3.3 Overview of Corporate Income Taxes
(Corporate Tax, Corporate Inhabitant Tax, Enterprise Tax)
3.4 Overview of Withholding Income Tax
3.6 Overview of Consumption Tax
3.7 Overview of Personal Tax System
3.9 Other Principal Corporate Taxation Regarding International Transactions
Section 4: Human Resource Management
This section covers Japan's labor laws and regulations. Topics include recruitment, employment contracts, wages, working hours, work rules, workplace safety, hygiene requirements, resignation and dismissal procedures, and Japan's social security, health, and pension systems.
4.5 Legislation on Working Hours, Breaks, and Days Off
4.9 Japan’s Social Security System
Section 5: Trademark & Design Protection Systems
This section touches on Japan's trademark and design protection systems, registration vehicles, periods of protection, and trademark and design registration procedures.
5.1 Legislation on Trademark and Design
5.3 Validity and Term of Trademark Registration
5.4 Cancellation of Trademarks
5.6 International Registration of Trademarks
5.9 International Registration of Industrial Designs
