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🏢CORPYO · Company Formation in Japan
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Company formation in Japan

Launch your Japan company 100% remotely — handled end-to-end by CORPYO and a licensed local agent, in your language.

Start formation now →Talk to an advisor
🌍Companies formed worldwide
⚖️Licensed local agents
💻100% digital process
🗣️Expert support in your language
All-inclusive from
$1,600
Timeline
7-14 days
Tax rate
23.2%
Min. capital
JPY 1
Annual renewal
JPY 70,000/yr

About Japan

Japan is the world's third-largest economy and a gateway to a sophisticated, high-spending consumer market. Two structures exist: the KK (Kabushiki Kaisha), which requires notarized articles of incorporation and carries the most local credibility, and the GK (Godo Kaisha), a simpler, faster structure without the notarization step — Japan's rough equivalent of an LLC. Since 2015, neither structure legally requires a resident director; both can be run entirely by directors living overseas. In practice, though, most banks and landlords still expect a resident representative before they'll open an account or sign a lease, so most non-resident founders appoint one anyway for the sake of getting things done. Non-residents also can't register the personal seal (hanko) locals use — instead you'll need notarized, apostilled signature certificates from your home country. Once formed, a registered corporate seal (inkan) is essential for virtually every business transaction in Japan, a distinctly Japanese requirement worth knowing about upfront. A Japanese company earns strong local trust, opening doors to enterprise partnerships, technology and premium retail for companies committed to the region.

Key industries
TechE-commercePremium RetailGamingManufacturing

Why incorporate in Japan?

Real advantages this jurisdiction offers international founders.

✓World's third-largest economy
✓High trust and credibility across Asia
✓Strong IP and legal protection
✓Access to 125M+ affluent consumers
✓Gateway to Japan and East Asia

Ideal for

Japanese market accessAutomotive/techBrand credibilityAsia expansion

💡 Tax system

23.2% corporate tax

Strengths

✓World's 3rd largest economy
✓High consumer trust
✓Strong IP laws

Important considerations

!Language barrier in bureaucracy
!Complex regulatory environment

What you'll need

A short, fully digital checklist — no paperwork sent by post.

01Passport copy of each shareholder & director
02Proof of address (utility bill or bank statement)
03Proposed company name & business activity
04Shareholding structure & ownership split

🛂 Residency & relocation

Ask our advisors how incorporating in Japan can support investor residency, work permits, and relocation for you and your family.

📒 Compliance & accounting

We keep your Japan company in good standing — annual renewals, filings, bookkeeping and tax returns — all managed for you so you can focus on growth.

Your formation timeline

From first click to a ready-to-go company, here's exactly what happens.

1. Choose a structure & submit details
Pick your company type and share your basic information in minutes.
2. KYC & document preparation
We handle identity checks and prepare every legal document for you.
3. Government filing
Your licensed local agent files the application with the authorities.
4. Receive your company documents
Get your official incorporation documents, ready to use.

Available company structures

Choose the structure that fits your goals — every option is handled end-to-end by CORPYO and a licensed local agent.

LLC
Kabushiki Kaisha / Godo Kaisha
From $1,600 · 7-14 days · 23.2%
Read details →
Corp
Corporation
From $1,600 · 7-14 days · 23.2%
Read details →
Branch
Branch Office
From $1,600 · 7-14 days · 23.2%
Read details →

Not sure Japan is the one?

Compare jurisdictions side by side — taxes, costs, timelines and benefits — and find your perfect match.

Compare all jurisdictions →

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to form a company in Japan?
Typically 7-14 days. CORPYO and a licensed local agent handle everything from document preparation to government filing.
Can I incorporate in Japan remotely without travelling?
Yes — the process is 100% online. You submit your details and documents digitally; no travel required.
What taxes apply to a company in Japan?
23.2% corporate tax. The exact treatment depends on your activity, and our team guides you to the optimal structure.
Can you help open a bank account in Japan?
After receiving your company formation documents, you may apply directly — yourself — to the banks, financial institutions, or fintech platforms available in your chosen jurisdiction, subject to each provider's own terms and requirements. Our services are limited to assisting with company formation and providing the official incorporation documents. We do not open bank or financial accounts on behalf of clients, do not represent clients before banks, and do not provide any regulated financial services. All bank or financial account applications are subject to independent review and approval by the relevant bank or financial institution.
How much does it cost to incorporate in Japan?
From $1,600, covering the core fees — with no hidden charges.

Ready to incorporate in Japan?

100% digital · licensed local agent · expert support in your language.

Start formation now →

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