Requirements for Company Registration in Japan

1. Requirements for Company Registration in Japan Your comprehensive guide to company registration in Japan, from choosing the right structure to completing all legal requirements.

2. Choosing Your Business Structure: The Foundation Kabushiki Kaisha (KK) Godo Kaisha (GK) Prestigious corporation structure similar to US C-Corp. Requires notarized articles of incorporation and is ideal for larger companies seeking credibility with partners and investors. Flexible LLC-style entity with simpler setup process. No notarization required, making it perfect for startups and small businesses prioritizing speed and cost-effectiveness. Branch Office Extension of existing foreign company with no separate legal entity. Parent company remains fully liable, but setup is straightforward for established international businesses.

3. Step 1: Selecting and Registering Your Company Name 01 02 Uniqueness Check Japanese Translation Ensure your chosen name isn't already registered in Japan through the Legal Affairs Bureau database search system. Prepare your company name in proper Japanese characters (katakana, hiragana, or kanji) even if operating primarily in English. 03 Official Verification Legal Affairs Bureau conducts final name duplication check during the registration process to prevent conflicts.

4. Step 2: Preparing Articles of Incorporation Notarization Requirements Essential Information KK structures require public notary certification, while GK entities can proceed without this step, saving both time and costs. Articles must detail company name, business objectives, director information, shareholder details, and initial capital structure comprehensively. Governance Framework These foundational documents establish your company's management structure, operational procedures, and decision-making protocols for future operations.

5. Step 3: Capital Deposit and Bank Account Setup Initial Capital Deposit Deposit starting capital into temporary bank account. No minimum required, but nominal amount demonstrates business viability to authorities. Corporate Account Opening After registration completion, establish permanent corporate bank account for all business transactions and financial operations. Temporary Solution Representative Director's personal account may serve as temporary capital deposit location before corporate account activation.

6. Step 4: Company Registration at Legal Affairs Bureau ¥150K ¥60K KK Registration Fee GK Registration Fee Standard cost for Kabushiki Kaisha registration including all required documentation and processing. More affordable Godo Kaisha registration option for cost- conscious entrepreneurs. 2 weeks Processing Time Typical duration from document submission to official registration completion. Submit notarized articles (KK only), capital deposit certificate, and supporting documents to complete the official registration process.

7. Step 5: Company Seal and Official Notifications Company Seal Creation Tax Office Notification Additional Registrations Design and register your official company seal (inkan), absolutely mandatory for all legal documents, contracts, and banking operations in Japan. Promptly notify the National Tax Agency about your company incorporation to establish proper tax registration and compliance requirements. Register for both corporate income tax and consumption tax systems. Bank of Japan notification may be required for specific business types.

8. Additional Legal Considerations & Licenses Physical Office Requirements Industry-Specific Licenses Timeline and Penalties Secure legitimate business address in Japan. Shared office spaces are acceptable initially, providing flexibility while meeting legal requirements. Certain sectors require special permits: financial services, cosmetics, food handling, and healthcare. Research your industry's specific requirements thoroughly. License acquisition typically requires 2-3 months. Operating without proper licenses risks significant penalties and business closure.

9. Visa & Residency Requirements for Foreign Entrepreneurs 1 Business Manager Visa Most common option for foreign company directors. Requires substantial investment and detailed business plan demonstration. 2 Start-up Visa Program Available in select cities with simplified requirements. Designed to encourage international entrepreneurship in Japan. 3 Investor Visa Option For significant capital investment scenarios. Enables residence card issuance and full business operation rights. Proper visa status enables residence card issuance, bank account opening, and full business registration capabilities.

10. Summary: Your Path to Successful Company Registration in Japan 01 02 Structure Selection Documentation Preparation Choose between KK, GK, or branch office based on your business needs, budget, and long-term objectives. Prepare and notarize articles of incorporation as required. Gather all necessary supporting documents meticulously. 03 04 Capital and Registration Final Steps Complete capital deposit and submit registration application to Legal Affairs Bureau with all required fees. Create company seal, notify tax authorities, secure office space, obtain necessary licenses, and manage visa requirements. Timeline: 2-4 weeks for basic registration; licenses and visas may require additional months. Start your Japan business journey with confidence and full legal compliance!

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