Starting a business
Can I run a real estate agency in Japan?
Yes, but brokering real-estate transactions for compensation requires a Real Estate Transaction Business license and licensed real-estate transaction specialists in the required staffing ratio.
VerifiedPrimary topic verifiedLast checked: 18 Aug 2026
What you need to know
Requirements & exceptions
- Owning property for yourself does not require a brokerage license.
- Brokerage/agency for others is regulated.
- Office, deposit/guarantee and professional staffing requirements apply.
Documents
- Identity documents
- Company/business plan documents
- Corporate registration documents where applicable
Likely cost
No single government price. Costs depend on the business license, registration, premises, capital, product compliance and professional services required for this exact activity.
Where to act
The sector-specific licensing authority plus Legal Affairs Bureau/tax offices where entity or tax registration is involved.