Complete Guide to Startup Visas in Japan for UK entrepreneurs in 2025

Japan has been opening its doors to global entrepreneurship for years, and startup visas are part of that effort. There are many visas available for entrepreneurs looking to move to Japan, whether you’re looking to expand your business in the country or are starting from the ground up.

To make the move smoother, you'll also need a smart way to manage your business finances across borders. Wise Business lets you pay invoices, receive payments, and convert currencies with low fees and transparent rates.

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What startup visas are available in Japan?

Japan offers a handful of long-term visas for foreign entrepreneurs such as the Highly Skilled Professional Visa and a more standard Working Visa³, but if your goal is to launch or grow a business, the Japan Startup Visa and the Business Manager Visa are the most relevant options. Here’s an overview of them both:

Eligibility requirements for the Japan Startup Visa

Instead of requiring a business visa with strict capital and hiring requirements upfront, as of April 2025, the startup visa gives founders up to 6 months to two years¹ to get set up. The visa is also now available nationwide and will no longer be limited to select zones. To qualify for the Startup Visa, applicants must do the following:

• Send in an in-depth business plan that includes a market analysis, financial forecasts, and strategies for running the business.
• Show that they're financially stable, with enough money to cover the living costs and the start-up costs of the company.
• Secure endorsement from a local government⁴ or designated organisation that supports foreign entrepreneurs.
• Engage in industries⁵ such as artificial intelligence (AI), biotechnology, or medical technology, aligning with Japan's innovation initiatives.
• Provide necessary documentation, including a valid passport, resume, and any other documents requested by the local authorities.

Eligibility requirements for the Japan Business Manager Visa

People who have set up a business in Japan and are actively handling it are eligible for the Business Manager Visa. You can also start a new business with this visa, but those who want to apply must²:

• Invest at least ¥5 million, or around £25,600, in the company. Also, you should employ at least one Japanese national (or have appropriate residency status) full-time.
• Secure a physical office space because virtual offices are generally not accepted.
• Send in a working business plan that describes the type of business, makes financial predictions, and describes how the management will work.
• Provide proof of business registration, including incorporation documents and any necessary licences.
• Include plans for hiring people and marketing methods to show that the business is ready to start up.

You may be eligible for this visa if you manage a business on behalf of a corporation in Japan - however, you must be in a decision-making role on significant matters.⁸

Benefits of securing a Startup Visa in Japan

Securing a Japan Startup Visa in 2025 opens the door to a new country and offers real strategic advantages for entrepreneurs with global ambitions. For starters, the visa gives you the time and breathing room to focus on building your business without the immediate pressure of meeting strict incorporation or revenue goals.⁶

You're allowed to reside in Japan for six months to two years while preparing everything. And longer stay, more permanent residency is also possible with both visa options. Many municipalities now offer support like subsidised co-working spaces, mentoring, and help with administrative tasks. This is especially valuable if you're navigating the system in a second language.

Why the Japan Startup Visa matters for foreign entrepreneurs

Japan's Startup Visa is a launchpad for entrepreneurs working in high-impact sectors like AI, biotech, and medical technology. With updated policies in 2025, it's now easier to overcome typical roadblocks, such as opening a bank account early in your stay or allocating funds more flexibly to grow your business.

Japan's economy is the third largest in the world, with a tech-savvy urban population and deep consumer trust in quality products and services. This program also supports Japan's broader goal of regional revitalisation⁶, as founders are encouraged to set up outside Tokyo and Osaka and bring innovation to areas that need it most.

How to apply for the Startup Visa, step-by-step

Thinking about launching your startup in Japan? The Japan Startup Visa is designed to make the process more accessible for non-Japanese founders, especially if you've got a unique business idea and a clear, viable plan. While it's not without its challenges, recent policy updates, increased local support, and a broader rollout nationwide have made the path smoother than before.

Step 1 – Prepare the required documentation

First things first – you need to make sure all documents are accurately translated into Japanese, as required. Gather and prepare the following documents⁷:

• Detailed business plan of the business idea, market analysis, financial projections, and operational strategy.
• Resume/CV with professional background and relevant experience.
• A passport copy that contains personal identification details.
• Documentation with details of the place of residence (six months after arriving in Japan).
• Evidence that shows you own sufficient funds for the stay in Japan, typically at least ¥5,000,000 (around £25,600) for the Business Manager Visa

Step 2 – Apply for a confirmation certificate

Submit your completed application, along with all the necessary documents, to the startup support centre of your chosen municipality⁴. They'll review your business plan, and if everything checks out, you'll receive a "Confirmation Certificate of Business Startup Activity" to move your application forward.

Step 3 - Apply for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE)

Once you have your Confirmation Certificate, the next step is to apply for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) at your local immigration bureau in Japan. You might need to provide extra documents and attend an interview so they can assess the potential and credibility of your business idea.

Step 4 – Obtain the Startup Visa

Once your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) is approved, you can head to the Japanese embassy or consulate in your home country to apply for the Startup Visa. Just bring along your COE and any other required documents. Processing times can vary a bit, so it's a good idea to apply early and stay flexible.

Tips for starting a business in Japan

Starting a business in Japan can be an exciting and rewarding venture, but it does come with its own set of challenges. Careful planning, a good grasp of local business etiquette, and understanding how things work on the ground can go a long way.

One of the first and most essential steps is to open a business bank account. Without it, you can't register your company or receive payments, and many administrative tasks will be stalled.

Japan offers startup support hubs in designated municipalities, but the ecosystem is still maturing compared to some European counterparts.

Here are a few tips to get yourself started:

• Open your business account early
• Understand local business etiquette
• Hire a bilingual consultant or legal expert
• Choose your startup city strategically
• Take advantage of government support⁴

Grow your startup in Japan with Wise Business Account

Another way you can help yourself and your startup on the way to success is to find a fast, cost-effective way to manage your startup finances in Japan. Wise Business can help you get started on the right foot, especially since opening a traditional business bank account is time-consuming or restricted for newcomers. With Wise Business, you get:

• No monthly fees or hidden costs,
• International payments at the real exchange rate,
• Seamless integration with accounting software,
• Multi-currency support, ideal for handling funds in JPY, GBP, USD, EUR, and 40+ currencies,
• Local account details in major currencies,
• Hold and convert over 40 currencies in one place.

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Starting a business in Japan as a foreign entrepreneur is easier than ever, thanks to the expanding Japan Startup Visa program. If you come up with the right plan, prepare with some local knowledge, and have tools ready to manage your finances, you'll be well on your way. Launching something exciting in one of the world's most dynamic economies is right at your fingertips.

Sources used for this article:

Sources checked on 07-May-2025