Launch your business in Japan with the right residency pathway — backed by clear guidance and structured support.
Startup Visa allows foreign entrepreneurs to stay in Japan for a limited period while preparing to establish a business. During this time, applicants can complete incorporation procedures and secure office space without immediately meeting all requirements for the Business Manager status. The program is operated in collaboration with approved local governments and serves as a pathway to obtaining the Business Manager residence status.
is a Japanese residence status for foreign nationals who establish and manage a company in Japan or take on an executive role in an existing business. Applicants must secure a physical office in Japan and meet certain requirements, such as investing at least JPY 5 million in capital or employing two full-time staff members.
is a residence status designed to attract highly skilled foreign graduates from top overseas universities. It allows eligible individuals to stay in Japan for up to two years to conduct job hunting, entrepreneurship preparation, or research activities. The program aims to strengthen Japan's innovation ecosystem by welcoming global talent and supporting their transition into employment or business establishment in Japan
J-RISE Initiative (Japan Research & Innovation for Scientific Excellence Initiative) is a national policy package led by the Japanese government (Cabinet Office) to attract outstanding international research talent and strengthen Japan's research and innovation ecosystem through global collaboration and institutional support.
Programs (Titles & Links)
1. Provision of Joint Research Opportunities
Postdoctoral Fellowships for Research in Japan (JSPS) 
2. Startup Support – Global Startup Campus (GSC) Initiative
Global Startup Campus (GSC) Initiative|Cabinet Secretariat
3. Research Grants
4. Innovative Research Hubs
Global Outstanding Talent Invitation and University Strengthening Program (EXPERT-J) – JST
is a fast-track residence status for exceptionally highly skilled foreign professionals. It grants preferential immigration treatment without requiring the standard points-based evaluation, provided applicants meet certain income and academic or professional criteria. J-SKIP offers benefits such as a five-year period of stay and accelerated eligibility for permanent residency, aiming to attract top global talent to Japan.
is a fast-track residence status for exceptionally highly skilled foreign professionals. It grants preferential immigration treatment without requiring the standard points-based evaluation, provided applicants meet certain income and academic or professional criteria. J-SKIP offers benefits such as a five-year period of stay and accelerated eligibility for permanent residency, aiming to attract top global talent to Japan.
Access competitive national grant programs that support R&D, commercialization, and startup growth in Japan. Eligibility and application requirements vary by program, with selected startups receiving financial and programmatic support
NEDO
Support measures for deep-tech startups provided by the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO), a national research and development agency
https://www.nedo.go.jp/english/activities/cross-sectoral.html
Plus One
A one-stop consultation service covering 22 government-related organizations, including NEDO (in Japanese)
https://www.nedo.go.jp/activities/startups/plusone.html
Participate in government-backed acceleration programs that connect startups with international ecosystems and global markets. These initiatives provide mentorship, market access opportunities, and overseas expansion support
Engage with Japan's capital market ecosystem through initiatives supporting startups preparing for future growth and potential IPO. The hub connects founders with the Tokyo Stock Exchange and capital market stakeholders
https://www.jpx.co.jp/english/equities/listing-on-tse/startuphub/index.html
Last updated:2026-04-30
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