許可Applicationの必要書類と手続き

Detailed explanation of 許可Applicationの必要書類と手続き based on official information from 法務省・法務局. Permanent Residency Application

Published: January 12, 2026

Company Registration Application in Japan

1. Overview

Company registration in Japan is the official process of establishing a legal business entity with the Legal Affairs Bureau (法務局). This process grants the company legal personality, allowing it to enter into contracts, own property, and conduct business under its own name. The registration is mandatory for operating as a corporation (e.g., Kabushiki Kaisha, Godo Kaisha) and is a fundamental step to legitimize business operations, open corporate bank accounts, hire employees, and comply with Japanese commercial law. The application is governed by the Companies Act (会社法) and processed through the commercial registry system.

2. Applicable Objects & Scenarios

This process applies to entrepreneurs, investors, or existing foreign companies seeking to establish a formal corporate presence in Japan. It is required when:

  • Forming a new stock company (Kabushiki Kaisha - KK), limited liability company (Godo Kaisha - GK), or other corporate entity.
  • A foreign corporation establishes a subsidiary (e.g., a KK) in Japan.
  • Converting an existing business structure (like a sole proprietorship) into a corporation. The application is needed before commencing business operations that require a corporate legal structure.

3. Core Conclusions

  • Registration is a mandatory legal requirement for incorporating a company in Japan.
  • The process involves multiple steps including notarization of articles of incorporation, capital deposit, and submission of precise documents to the Legal Affairs Bureau.
  • Professional assistance (judicial scriveners, attorneys) is highly recommended due to complex legal and procedural requirements.
  • Successful registration results in a certified copy of the company registry (登記簿謄本), which is essential for all subsequent business activities.
  • Timelines and exact costs can vary significantly based on company type, structure, and location.

4. Procedures & Steps

Step 1: Preparation

This is the most critical phase, involving planning and document drafting.

  1. Decide Company Details: Determine the company type, trade name (must be unique and compliant), business objectives, address (registered office), fiscal year, and amount of capital.
  2. Prepare Articles of Incorporation (定款): Draft this foundational document outlining company rules. For a KK, it must include prescribed information and be notarized by a Japanese notary public.
  3. Appoint Officers: Identify the representative director(s), directors, and statutory auditor (if required).
  4. Secure Office Address: Obtain a physical legal address in Japan (P.O. boxes are not acceptable).
  5. Capital Deposit: Transfer the initial capital to a bank account opened in the name of the company-in-formation. The bank will issue a certificate of deposit.
  6. In-Person Verification: All initial directors/representative directors residing in Japan must complete an in-person identity verification at the Legal Affairs Bureau or via a certified attorney/scrivener.

Step 2: Application & Submission

Compile and submit the registration application to the Legal Affairs Bureau with jurisdiction over the company's registered address.

  1. Gather Required Documents: The core application package typically includes:
    • Application for Company Registration (登記申請書)
    • Notarized Articles of Incorporation (定款認証謄本)
    • Certificate of Capital Deposit (預金残高証明書)
    • Acceptance Letters from appointed directors and statutory auditors (就任承諾書)
    • Personal Seals (印鑑) and Seal Registration Certificates (印鑑証明書) of the representative director(s)
    • Proof of the registered office address (e.g., lease agreement, certificate of title)
    • A document confirming the company seal (会社の印鑑)
  2. Submit Application: The application, prepared in specific formats, is submitted by the future representative director or a delegated judicial scrivener (司法書士).

Step 3: Review & Confirmation

  1. Examination: The Legal Affairs Bureau reviews the application for completeness and legal compliance. This usually takes approximately 1 to 2 weeks.
  2. Registration & Issuance: Upon approval, the company is officially registered in the commercial registry. You can then obtain a Certified Copy of the Company Registry (登記簿謄本) as proof of incorporation.
  3. Post-Registration Tasks: After registration, the company must proceed with tax office notifications, social insurance enrollment, and other necessary registrations.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I complete the company registration application by myself? A: While legally possible, it is strongly discouraged for non-residents or those unfamiliar with Japanese commercial law and procedures. The documents are complex, require specific legal phrasing, and must be in Japanese. Most companies use a licensed judicial scrivener (司法書士) to ensure accuracy and avoid rejection.

Q2: What is the minimum capital required to start a company? A: The Companies Act does not set a statutory minimum capital requirement for most company types (e.g., KK, GK). However, a realistic amount is needed to cover setup costs and operational expenses. Note: For foreign nationals seeking a Business Manager visa, an investment/capital of generally at least 5 million JPY is a common requirement by immigration authorities.

Q3: How long does the entire registration process take? A: From preparation to receiving the registry extract, it typically takes 3 to 8 weeks. The timeline depends on the speed of notarization, capital deposit, document preparation, and the workload of the Legal Affairs Bureau.

Q4: Do I need to be in Japan physically to register a company? A: Not necessarily for the entire process. However, the notarization of the Articles of Incorporation and the identity verification for directors in Japan require physical presence or the use of a power of attorney delegated to a local professional. A non-resident representative director will have specific procedural requirements.

Q5: What are the main costs involved in the application? A: Costs include notarization fees (based on capital), registration license tax (calculated on capital), judicial scrivener fees, and costs for company seals. Please verify with official sources or your professional advisor for current rates.

Q6: What happens if my application is rejected? A: The Legal Affairs Bureau will issue a notice detailing the reasons for rejection (e.g., missing documents, incorrect information). You must correct the deficiencies and resubmit the application, which will cause significant delays.

6. Risks & Compliance

  • Accuracy is Paramount: Incorrect or incomplete information in the application will lead to rejection and delays.
  • Legal Compliance: The company's objectives must be lawful. The Articles of Incorporation must strictly adhere to the format and content required by the Companies Act.
  • Post-Registration Obligations: Company registration is only the first step. The company must comply with annual corporate tax filings, business tax reports, and statutory documentation updates (e.g., changes of directors, address).
  • Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Laws and procedures are subject to change. It is not legal advice. You must consult with qualified professionals (judicial scriveners, attorneys, tax accountants) and verify all information with the relevant official institutions before proceeding.

7. References & Sources

8. Related Topics

  • Notarization of Articles of Incorporation in Japan
  • Opening a Corporate Bank Account in Japan
  • Post-Incorporation Business Registrations in Japan (Tax, Social Insurance, Pension)
  • Japan Business Manager Visa Requirements
  • Corporate Seal (Inkan) Registration in Japan
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