startup visa- category -

1. start-up visa is not a "goal", it is a "stay of execution" Many entrepreneurs are relieved after obtaining a "start-up visa (6 months to 2 years)", but that is a big mistake. Due to the amendment of the law in October 2025, the hurdle for renewal to the "Management and Administration Visa" is "an investment of 30 million yen or more...

Video Commentary (Japanese) Video Commentary (English) Video Commentary (Chinese) 1. Introduction: The era in which one can become president with 5 million yen is over The startup environment in Japan has undergone a dramatic change with the legislative revision on October 16, 2025. Until now, the relatively low hurdle of "5 million yen in capital" has taken...

Behind the scenes, Kyoto Prefecture continues to claim that it "welcomes foreign entrepreneurs," a cruel reality is unfolding: the "drastic change (tightening) of business management visa requirements" that was implemented on October 16, 2025. Based on this premise, the current guide page published by Kyoto Prefecture (*Kyoto Prefecture "Startup Visa Ky...

The nature of Japan's program to promote entrepreneurial activities by foreign nationals has undergone a major transformation since its last revision in October 2025. The former "grace period for preparation for starting a business" is no longer applicable. Investors should pay close attention to the fact that the Japanese government, through this public notice, has effectively created a "management...

With the Kyoto gubernatorial election coming up in the spring, we would like to make a strong appeal for a major reorganization of the "support system for foreign entrepreneurial activities" for the sustainable development of Kyoto. Currently, many foreign entrepreneurs are attracted to Kyoto, but are confronted with complex visa systems and administrative barriers. In order to break through this current situation, a mere window...

The "Information and Strategy Gap" Behind the Generous Support While Kyoto Prefecture's startup visa support has a generous accompaniment system oriented toward economic growth, it also faces two significant structural and strategic challenges that threaten the sustainability of Kyoto as a historical city and the ultimate certainty of success for applicants...

Warning to Foreign Entrepreneurs: Rethink Your Startup Strategy After the “Business Manager” Visa Tightening The startup visa system ("Designated Activities" visa status of residence) offered by many local governments is very attractive to foreigners who want to...

Stricter requirements for business and management visas on October 16, 2025 will pose a major challenge for foreign entrepreneurs. The hurdles will be raised dramatically: capital will be raised from 5 million yen to 30 million yen, the hiring of full-time staff and the qualifications (experience and education) of managers will become mandatory, and so on. However...