A premium, high-trust business environment
Japan is one of the world's largest economies with high purchasing power, strong contract enforcement, and reliable courts. A Japanese entity creates high international trust — especially for SaaS, AI, robotics, fintech, and technology companies seeking serious Asian market presence.
Foreign founders can set up a Godo Kaisha (GK) — Japan's LLC equivalent — with 100% foreign ownership, one shareholder, and one director. No Japanese partner required. Setup is possible without traveling to Japan.
Japan is not a low-cost jurisdiction. It is a premium, compliance-heavy environment — best suited for businesses that need long-term Asian expansion, strong global credibility, and reliable legal infrastructure.
Choose the right structure
Japan offers multiple entity types depending on your speed, budget, and operational needs.
Most popular structure for foreign founders. Cheaper and simpler than KK while providing full legal credibility. No public disclosure of financials required.
Accelerated incorporation for urgent setups. For closing contracts quickly, immediate invoicing, or rapid market entry. Higher cost, faster processing.
Special economic zones in Okinawa, Tokyo, Nagasaki, Niigata. Best for global trading, manufacturing, logistics, and international supply chains.
Extension of a foreign parent company into Japan. No full liability separation — the parent remains legally exposed. Best for existing corporations doing project work.
Simplest entry structure. Cannot invoice, cannot generate revenue, cannot sign commercial contracts. Used for market research, networking, and relationship building only.
| Entity Type | Sales Allowed | Liability | Best Use | Est. Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LLC / GK ★ | Yes | Limited | Standard operations | US$20,325 |
| Fast LLC | Yes | Limited | Urgent setup | US$38,500 |
| Free Zone Co. | Yes | Limited | Trading / logistics | US$13,325 |
| Branch Office | Yes | Parent liable | Foreign corp. extension | US$17,050 |
| Rep. Office | No | None | Research only | US$14,750 |
How incorporation works — step by step
Define business activities, ownership structure, company name, capital amount, and director/shareholder details. Japan has strict AML compliance — source of funds documentation is required from day one.
Passport copies, proof of address, business plan, corporate ownership documents. Preparation of Articles of Incorporation, Power of Attorney, company seal (hanko) documentation, and shareholder resolutions.
The Legal Affairs Bureau processes the company registration. After approval the company receives its registration certificate, company number, and tax registration references.
Often the most difficult stage. Japanese banks perform extensive compliance reviews — business activity, source of revenue, beneficial ownership, client contracts, and website. May require in-person interview.
Internet banking activation and final compliance checks. Company is fully operational — ready to invoice, hire staff, sign contracts, and conduct commercial activity in Japan.
What we handle for you in Japan
Full Godo Kaisha registration with the Legal Affairs Bureau. Articles of Incorporation, company seal, shareholder resolutions, and registration certificate.
Account opening support with Japanese banks. Full KYC documentation, compliance preparation, and banking strategy — the hardest part of Japan setup.
Professional resident director with proper indemnity agreements — satisfies local accountability requirements while protecting your operational control.
Business Manager Visa applications for founders relocating to Japan. Guidance on office, capital, business plan, and compliance requirements.
Annual accounting, corporate tax returns, consumption tax, local enterprise tax, and payroll tax compliance with Japan's tax authority.
Monthly payroll processing, social security obligations, and staff recruitment support for hiring in Japan's strict labor protection environment.
Official Japanese registered address for legal and tax correspondence. Physical, serviced, and virtual office solutions — with substance advisory for banking and visa.
Brand protection with Japan Patent Office. Strong IP system for tech, electronics, AI, and consumer brand protection in one of the world's most advanced IP jurisdictions.
Monthly bookkeeping, management information systems, and board-ready financial packs. IFRS/GAAP-aligned statements for investors and compliance.
Who should incorporate in Japan?
When Japan may not be the right choice
Start your Japan company today
GK incorporation, resident director, banking, visa, and compliance — all handled. Book a strategy call and we'll route your case to the right desk.