Apply for the Osaka City Startup Visa
The Foreign Entrepreneurship Promotion Project (Startup Visa) is a program implemented by local governments (Foreign Entrepreneurship Promotion Organizations) to promote the acceptance and support of foreign entrepreneurs. These organizations operate under management support plans certified by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI). Osaka City was certified as a Foreign Entrepreneurship Promotion Organization on March 27, 2019.
Normally, when foreign nationals start a business in Japan, they must meet various requirements to obtain the “Business Manager” residence status from the Immigration Services Agency (ISA). These requirements include establishing a physical office and either employing at least two full-time employees OR having a minimum capital or total investment amount of at least 5 million yen.
Under this project, foreign entrepreneurs receive support at the Startup Visa support desk to create a Business Startup Preparation Plan, which is then submitted to Osaka City. If the city determines that the entrepreneur is likely to meet the requirements for the “Business Manager” visa within one year, a confirmation certificate will be issued.
By submitting this certificate along with the necessary documents to the ISA and undergoing the required evaluation, the entrepreneur may be granted the “Designated Activities” residence status for up to two years, with a renewal required after one year.
The Startup Visa Support Desk both accept the business startup plan application and provide support for the creation of a plan document needed for the above Osaka City Foreign Entrepreneurship Promotion Project. We also assist in preparatory activities with the end goal of foreign entrepreneurs who hold the Designated Activities status (the “Startup Visa”) acquiring a full Business Manager status.
* All application documents should be filled out in Japanese.
* If you are including additional documents (etc.) in languages other than Japanese, you are requested to also attach a Japanese translation.
To download the application form for the Foreign Entrepreneurship Promotion Project, click here (Osaka City website)
For the Foreign Entrepreneurship Promotion Project Q&A, click here (Osaka City website)
Process of obtaining a start-up visa
※Obtaining a start-up visa takes at least five months after eligibility is confirmed.
About Inquiries
If you are interested in applying, please contact us first using the inquiry form.
We will respond within 2-3 business days.
Support during the startup preparation phase
Those who have obtained the “Designated Activities” status are required to participate in a monthly interview.
These interviews provide support for your business startup activities, helping you meet the criteria for the “Business Manager” status throughout your Startup Visa period.
During these interviews, we will review the progress of your startup activities and provide guidance as needed. If necessary, you will also have the opportunity to consult with specialists such as small business advisors or tax accountants.
Additionally, we organize seminars, business matching sessions, and networking events, all of which are valuable resources for entrepreneurs.
