1. Key Points of the New Requirements

• Capital: JPY 30,000,000+
• Employment: At least one full-time employee required (AND condition with capital)
• Management Experience / Academic Background: 3+ years of management experience or a master’s degree (or higher)
• Professional Evaluation: Business plan review by a certified professional (e.g., SME consultant)
• Japanese Language Ability: The applicant or an employee must demonstrate a certain level of Japanese proficiency
• Renewal: Mandatory submission of detailed documentation about ongoing business activities

2. Expected Impacts

The new requirements will increase the burden for small-scale founders and discourage superficial formations. For serious entrepreneurs with sound plans, system credibility will improve, potentially making long-term operations more stable.

3. Strategies After Implementation

(1) Securing Capital

Meet the threshold through investor funding, joint investment with Japanese partners, or a post-incorporation capital increase.

(2) Employment Strategy

Hire at least one full-time staff member with practical Japanese ability. Founders are advised to aim for JLPT N2+.

(3) Academic & Career Background

Prepare documentation proving past management experience. If no degree, strengthen your file with training certificates and a detailed career record.

(4) Enhance Business Plan

Obtain third-party evaluations (SME consultants/accountants). Present market research and financial projections with concrete numbers and assumptions.

(5) Preparing for Renewals

Keep thorough records of transactions and operations. Build tax and labor compliance workflows with professional advisors from day one.

4. Alternative Routes

• Highly Skilled Professional (HSP) Visa
• Startup Visa
• Joint Venture / Partnership with Japanese partners

5. Conclusion

While strict, the new rules reward founders who are genuinely committed to operating in Japan. The pillars are capital, employment, and experience. Align early with qualified professionals to design a compliant, defensible strategy.