🇯🇵 Japan · Entrepreneur

Startup Visa — requirements, costs & how to apply

Official source Updated 2026-06-09 · Government page ↗

Who is eligible

Work experience1+ years
Age range18–65

Duration & renewal

Initial stay: 24 months. Does not lead directly to permanent residence.

Who can apply

Open to all nationalities.

How to apply

  1. Confirm you meet the eligibility above.
  2. Gather documents and apply via the official portal: https://www.meti.go.jp/english/policy/economy/startup_nbp/startup_visa.html.

Frequently asked

Does this visa lead to permanent residence?

No — it does not lead directly to permanent residence.

Sources & verification

Every figure on this page is taken from an official government source and dated. Nothing is inferred.

No direct PR path

“When you take advantage of the "Startup Visa", you can stay in Japan for up to two years and prepare for starting a business, before the requirements are met.”

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Informational only, not legal or immigration advice. Requirements change — always confirm on the official government source linked above before applying. Last verified 2026-06-09.

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