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Can I Japan?/Starting a business/Can I start a KK as a foreigner?
Starting a business

Can I start a KK as a foreigner?

YES

Foreigners can form a Kabushiki Kaisha (KK).

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.
Official sources
JETRO — Investing in Japan Q&AGovernment of Japan · Official sourceJETRO — Comparison of Business Operation TypesGovernment of Japan · Official sourceExisting verified sourceGovernment of Japan · Official source

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