The use of seals can seem like an unusual custom for many foreign investors. The purpose of a seal is quite simple; instead of the commonly used signature in most Western countries, the seal is required for the validation of all major business, banking, or legal transactions. Most companies in Japan use 3 different types…
The procedures for starting a company in Japan are as follows: 1. Selecting the type of company for incorporation (a) Japanese legal entity vs. branch office The choice to incorporate as a branch office or separate Japanese legal entity goes beyond tax considerations (though that is definitely an important component of any decision). Branch offices…
International companies can expand operations in Japan by establishing a subsidiary corporation or a branch office. Branches are easier and less costly to open but lack the inherent advantages of subsidiaries, which are usually established as a Kabushiki Kaisha (KK) which is a joint stock company, or a Godo Kaisha (GK), which is a limited…
If you are thinking about opening your own company in Japan, you may find the following information very helpful: 1.Company incorporation by foreign nationals Q : Can foreigners set up a corporation in Japan? A : Absolutely. Foreign nationals can start their own company in Japan as long as they have a director or shareholder…
Understanding the benefits of professional Incorporation Services Starting a business in Japan can be an exciting (and potentially profitable) endeavor. However, it can also be exhausting and confusing, especially with the recent changes in Japanese regulations. Here at Shiodome Partners Group, we understand the special needs and circumstances that international investors face. As one of…
Understanding the value of an experienced Nominee Director Nominee directors are local resident representatives (who are either Japanese nationals or legal residents of Japan) that enable international companies to operate and do business in Japan. Though Japanese law no longer requires nominee directors for the formation and operation of international corporations, the advantage of native…
It is appropriate to choose the appropriate company structure for the goals of your business. The key to making the right choice requires a better understanding of the capabilities and limitations of each type of company, with a clear-eyed assessment of your business goals and current financial capacity. The 2 most common company types in…
What is a Kabushiki Kaisha (KK)? The Kabushiki Kaisha (KK) is the most common type of company in Japan, first established as a legal entity in 1873. Referred to as a stock company in English, KKs can sell shares of stock (partial ownership of the business) to raise capital. Its investors (also called shareholders) are entitled…
Today, foreign nationals can launch their own business in Japan, even if they are not residents. While acquiring legal residency status is highly recommended for practical purposes, it is not necessary if you do not need to be in Japan for more than 90 days at a time, and if you can open a personal…
Appointing a representative director is a required step to start a business in Japan. So what is a representative director, and is legal residency or Japanese nationality a requirement for that position? A representative director is a director with essentially the company’s highest authority, with the right to enter into business and legal contracts on…
