Part 6: Next Steps After Finalizing Your Company Name

Series Theme: Administrative Scrivener’s Guide for Foreign Entrepreneurs on Selecting a Company Name in Japan

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Introduction

Deciding on a company name is just the beginning of your business journey in Japan. After finalizing your company name, several essential legal and operational steps must be completed to ensure a smooth start. In this article, we’ll outline the key actions you need to take, from legal registration to business preparation, and explain how an administrative scrivener can assist you.

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1. Prepare and Authenticate the Articles of Incorporation

The first step after choosing your company name is to create the teikan (Articles of Incorporation). This document outlines the company’s fundamental rules and must be submitted during the registration process.

• Key Information to Include:
  Company name, business purpose, registered address, capital amount, and information about the founders (promoters).
• Important Note:
  Ensure the company name in the teikan matches the official name you intend to register. Abbreviations or alternate spellings are not permitted.
• Certification at a Notary Office (for Joint-Stock Companies):
  If you are establishing a Kabushiki Kaisha (KK), you need to have your teikan certified by a notary public. This step is not required for a Godo Kaisha (LLC).

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2. Register the Company Name at the Legal Affairs Bureau

Once the teikan is ready, you must apply for company registration at the Legal Affairs Bureau. This process legally establishes your company name.

• Required Documents:
  • Articles of Incorporation
  • Application for Company Registration
  • Promoter’s Consent Form
  • Certificate of Capital Deposit
  • Notification of Corporate Seal (inkan)
• Submission Methods:
  • In-Person: Submit documents at your local Legal Affairs Bureau.
  • Online: Use the Commercial Registration Electronic Filing System.

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3. Open a Corporate Bank Account

After the registration is complete, you’ll need to open a corporate bank account to manage your company’s finances.

• Required Documents:
  • Certified copy of the company registration (Toukibo)
  • Corporate seal certificate
  • Identification of the company representative
• Important Tip:
  Different banks may have varying requirements, so ensure you check in advance and prepare all necessary documentation accurately.

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4. Notify the Tax Office

You must notify the appropriate tax office about your company’s incorporation. This ensures compliance with Japan’s tax regulations.

• Key Documents to Submit:
  • Notification of Incorporation
  • Application for Blue Tax Return (for potential tax benefits)
  • Notification of Opening a Payroll Office (if you plan to hire employees)
• Submission Deadline:
  These documents must generally be filed within two months of incorporation.

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5. Prepare Business Materials

Create essential business tools, such as business cards, brochures, and a company website, using your official company name.

• Business Cards:
  Include the company name, representative’s name, and contact information. Having both Japanese and English versions can be beneficial.
• Website:
  Securing a domain name that matches your company name helps with brand recognition and online presence.

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6. Consider Trademark Registration

If you plan to protect your company name as a brand, consider registering it as a trademark.

• Benefits of Trademark Registration:
  • Prevents others from using a similar name.
  • Grants exclusive rights to use the name in business.
• Process:
  Submit a trademark application to the Japan Patent Office. patent attorney can help guide you through this process.

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7. Notify Business Partners and Customers

Once your company is officially registered, inform your business partners, clients, and relevant stakeholders of the new company name.

• Methods:
  • Send formal letters or emails announcing the incorporation.
  • Issue a press release to increase visibility.
• Tip:
  Clearly communicate your business’s mission and vision to build trust and credibility.

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Conclusion

Finalizing your company name is just the beginning of your business journey in Japan. By following these essential steps—from legal registration to brand protection—you’ll be well-prepared to establish a strong foundation for your business. Consulting with an administrative scrivener ensures that each step is completed smoothly and accurately, giving you the confidence to focus on growing your business.

Thank you for following this series, and we wish you great success in your business endeavors in Japan!