If you’re considering setting up a business in Japan, this blog post is for you. Japan has been ranked number one as the most preferred country to live and work in, with a high standard of living and low unemployment. For the past few decades, the Japanese government has constantly been working to restructure the investment process to attract more investment.
While setting up your business in a new country might seem challenging, you can always get along with help from experts. You can always take help from professionals like Mulland Fraser to set up your business in Japan. From registering your company and opening a bank account to trademark and business registration, there are a few things you need to take care of before starting your business venture. Here’s the complete guide for you to help you get settled quickly:
If you’re considering setting up a business in Japan, this blog post is for you. Japan has been ranked number one as the most preferred country to live and work in, with a high standard of living and low unemployment. For the past few decades, the Japanese government has constantly been working to restructure the investment process to attract more investment.
Get Your Business Visa to Work in Japan Says Mulland Fraser
This is the most crucial step you need to take before starting your business in Japan. To create a business, you should apply for a work-holiday visa. On the other hand, if you’re planning to stay here for more than three months, you’ll need a residence visa. While getting your business visa approved, there are some documents and requirements that you should prepare yourself to collect and submit. Generally, the visa application process is straightforward if you have all the necessary documents.
Businesses can choose between Start-Up Visa and Business Manage Visa (4-Months) as per their requirements. There is also an option for an Investor visa, but it has limitations. It’s always best to consult an expert like Mulland Fraser Japan to explore the best possible choice for your business.
You Need To Open A Bank Account For Your Business Says Mulland Fraser
A bank account keeps all your funds and cash flow secure in one place, which is quite beneficial for businesses. As your business grows, you will also need to open an escrow account so people can deposit money.
The popular options for starting an account for your business in Japan are Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation, Japan Post Bank, and Seven Bank. To open a bank account, you will require the following documents:
- Residence card of Japan
- A residency proof issued by any government office of Japan in the area you live
- Residency rights proof (business visa)
- Personal & contact information
- Initial deposit (there is no minimum limit for the initial deposit)
Having a bank account is an essential requirement that all businesses must have. Another advantage of opening a bank account is that it makes paying taxes easier and transfers money between accounts faster. As your business in Japan grows, you’ll need to expand to multiple offices around Japan for your employees and clientele to come by and see your product or service.
Establishing Your Business/Company
Japan’s business corporation law differs from the UK and the US. While starting your business in the UK, you can start with a limited company, but that’s different in Japan. You need to register your company with the local authorities of your city or town.
After registration, you will be provided with a certificate and can apply for a tax id number from the Tax office. To begin working in Japan, your company or corporation must obtain a business license before issuing its first invoice. In addition, you’ll need a business plan on how you want to run your business.
Opening a company is recommended if you’re planning to stay in Japan for more than three years. In Japan, your company is registered and has its specific tax number and bank account.
Registering a Trademark for Your Company Name
You’ll need to register your company’s trademark in Japan with the Japanese Patent Office as a business owner. This will help you prevent other companies from using your company’s name without permission. This can be easily obtained with an experienced lawyer handling this process’s legalities. Some everyday items that you can get registered in Japan include:
- Diagrams
- Letters
- Moving marks
- Pictures
- Symbols
- Holograms
- Position marks
- 3D objects
- Colors
Japan has strict rules regarding registering or filing trademarks and patents. Registering your trademark in Japan is easy if you use an agent to assist you with this process. Once your registration is completed, it will be printed on a certificate that you can take to the trademark registrar to get stamped onto your product or service.
Mulland Fraser Suggests applying for Seal & Registry Certificate and Corporate Number
The following documents you’ll need as a business owner: a Certificate, Registry Certificate, and Corporate Number. You will have to submit these official certificates to have your logo printed on your product. Also, these certificates can be used for online marketing and promoting your products and services.
These certificates can be obtained from the Japanese Patent Office and are quick and easy to get. When you apply for your certificate, it will usually be in electronic form. Sometimes you’ll need an official stamp from the local office of Japan Post or Sumitomo Mitsui bank to get your seal certificate.
Last but not least, your business website is one of the essential requirements for such a busy business owner. In addition, it’s also a vital marketing tool in making new customers visit your company website regularly and lead them toward your business” services and products.
Final Thoughts
From this post, you’ve probably understood that starting a business in Japan is easier than it looks. There are so many benefits of starting a company in Japan for entrepreneurs. It is demanding when you start a company, but it’s still beneficial for business owners. You need to consider some of the essential legal requirements that your business needs.
As suggested, you need to have a proper plan of action in place to understand what needs to be done clearly. In case of any confusion, get in touch with experts who can guide you in the right direction. Tell them your goals so they can develop the required strategy.
