Establishment of a Company
When a foreign company plans to establish a business office in Japan, it may establish a representative office or one of the three types of a company below (2 to 4).
- 1. Representative Office―A representative office is a liaison office, so it may conduct market surveys, collect information and advertise products. But it is not permimtted to engage in sales activities. No establishment registration is required.
- 2. Branch Office―Full-scale business activities are permitted. Company registration is required, but capital and articles of incorporation are not required.
- 3. Stock Company―Full-scale business activities are permitted.Multiple stakeholders may invest in the company. It can be listed in the stock market.
- 4. LLC―Full-scale business activities are permitted.It is suited to corporate management by a restricted group of investors and managers. Certificatiton of articles of incorporation by a notary public is not required, and cost of tax is relativelyl low.
| Branch Office | Stock Company | LLC | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capital | No capital | 1 yen or more | 1 yen or more |
| Number of investors | ---- | 1 or more | 1 or more |
| Minimum Registration Tax | Appointment of a representative: 60,000 Establishment of an office: 90,000 |
150,000 yen | 60,000 yen |
| Notary public fee | ---- | 50,000 yen | ---- |
| Shihoshoshi lawyer fee | 44,000 yen | 44,000 yen | 44,000 yen |
| Gyoseishoshi lawyer fee | 110,000 yen | 110,000 yen | 110,000 yen |
| Possible Status of Residence | Intra-company Transferee, Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services | Business Manager, Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services |
Business Manager, Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services |