Starting a business
Can I be the sole shareholder of a Japanese company?
A Japanese company can have a single shareholder/member, including a foreign person.
VerifiedPrimary topic verifiedLast checked: 18 Aug 2026
What you need to know
Requirements & exceptions
- Company ownership does not itself grant permission to live or work in Japan.
- Registration, tax, banking, beneficial-owner verification and sector-specific rules remain separate.
- Some foreign investments can trigger Foreign Exchange and Foreign Trade Act notifications/review depending on sector and investor.
Documents
- Identity documents
- Company/business plan documents
- Corporate registration documents where applicable
Likely cost
Company setup costs depend on structure and filings: registration tax, notarization where required, certificates, professional fees and initial capital are separate. Use JETRO/Legal Affairs Bureau figures for the chosen entity.
Where to act
Legal Affairs Bureau for corporate registration; tax offices and sector-specific licensing authority as applicable; Immigration separately if residence status is involved.