Tokyo Startup Visa Program: Support for Foreign Entrepreneurs
清水哲行Introduction
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government offers a wide range of support programs to encourage the creation and growth of startups. In particular, Tokyo has been actively working to attract talented entrepreneurs from overseas and support them in starting businesses in Tokyo.
For foreign nationals who wish to start a business in Japan, immigration procedures are an important part of the process, in addition to securing funding and establishing a company. Depending on the circumstances, entrepreneurs may need to obtain a Business Manager visa or make use of the Startup Visa Program.
This article provides an overview of Tokyo's startup support programs, with a particular focus on programs available to foreign entrepreneurs.
Startup Support in Tokyo
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government provides a broad range of services for aspiring entrepreneurs and startups, including business consultations, assistance with preparing business plans, financing support, and advice from specialists.
Major support organizations and facilities include Business Development Center TOKYO (BDC TOKYO) and TOKYO SOGYO STATION, which provide ongoing support from the preparation stage through to the period after a business has been launched.
Startup Visa Program for Foreign Entrepreneurs
Foreign nationals who establish and operate a business in Japan generally need to obtain a Business Manager status of residence.
However, meeting the requirements from the outset can be difficult because entrepreneurs may need time to secure appropriate business premises, prepare a detailed business plan, and complete other preparations before starting their business.
One option available during this preparation stage is Tokyo's Startup Visa Program for Foreign Entrepreneurs.
Under this program, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government reviews the applicant's business preparation plan. If the relevant requirements are met, the entrepreneur may carry out business preparation activities in Japan for a specified period under a Designated Activities status of residence.
Main Types of Support Available
Tokyo provides foreign entrepreneurs with various forms of support, including:
- Business startup consultations
- Assistance with preparing business plans
- Advice on establishing a company
- Support related to obtaining an appropriate status of residence
- Information on financing programs
- Ongoing assistance from specialists
Financing programs may also be available to foreign entrepreneurs who meet certain eligibility requirements.
Startup Visa vs. Business Manager Visa
| Startup Visa | Business Manager |
|---|---|
| Intended for preparing to start a business | Intended for actually managing and operating a business |
| Provides time to complete business preparations | Used after the business is ready to operate |
| Allows entrepreneurs to prepare their business while receiving support from Tokyo and other relevant organizations | The actual operation, stability, and continuity of the business are examined |
The Startup Visa is not the final goal. Rather, it should generally be regarded as a preparation period for transitioning to Business Manager status of residence.
Benefits of Consulting an Administrative Scrivener
Foreign nationals starting a business in Japan often need to handle several procedures at the same time, including:
- Selecting the appropriate status of residence
- Preparing a business plan
- Coordinating the schedule for company establishment and immigration procedures
- Preparing the necessary documents
Consulting an administrative scrivener can help make the process smoother by ensuring that the business plan and application documents are prepared with the relevant immigration requirements in mind.
Conclusion
Tokyo offers extensive support programs for startups and foreign entrepreneurs.
In particular, the Startup Visa Program can be a valuable option for foreign nationals who wish to establish a business in Japan. However, because entrepreneurs will ultimately need to transition to Business Manager status of residence to continue operating their business, it is important to begin preparing well in advance.
At TRUST Shimizu Administrative Scrivener's Office, we provide support for foreign entrepreneurs with Business Manager visa applications, consultations regarding the Startup Visa Program, and immigration procedures following company establishment.
If you are considering starting a business in Tokyo, please feel free to contact us.
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