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🇯🇵 Japan

Startup Visa

Japan's Startup Visa expanded nationwide in January 2025, offering foreign entrepreneurs up to 2 years to establish their businesses before meeting full Business Manager visa requirements. No initial capital or employee requirements during the startup phase. Must apply through approved municipalities with a viable business plan. Serves as a pathway to Business Manager Visa - entrepreneurs must show a realistic path to ¥30M capital. Available in major cities including Tokyo, Fukuoka, Osaka, and now expanded to all prefectures.

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Processing Time

1-3 months including municipality review

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Cost

Visa fee only, no capital requirement initially

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Duration

6 months to 2 years depending on municipality

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Work Rights

Business establishment activities only

Path to Permanent Residence

No

Requirements

  • 1Bachelor's degree or 1+ year management experience
  • 2Viable business plan approved by municipality
  • 3Demonstrate path to ¥30M capital for Business Manager transition
  • 4Application through approved municipality
  • 5No initial capital requirement during startup phase

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