① The document screening process takes approximately 1 to 2 weeks.
② Once you pass document screening, an interview will be set up. Pitch interviews will be conducted online.
‍③ The results of the interview will take 2 to 3 weeks. If you pass the interview, a confirmation certificate will be issued.
④ Approximately 1 to 2 weeks later (3 to 4 weeks may be required during vacation periods), the Mayor’s office will issue your approval letter.

Unfortunately, you cannot apply for a Start-up Visa if you have already registered your company in Japan.

Yes, the Startup Visa is still applicable as long as the applicant is the founder of the company, and will register it in Japan.

No, you don’t need to make a contract with a real estate agent at the application stage. We can also assist you with finding housing if you wish.

Yes.

Shibuya’s program includes Shibuya Startup Support, to help you both launch your business and with getting settled in Japan. We also have a PR team and a Community team, which provide support in promoting your company and consumer testing, respectively.

For a Startup Visa you are only required to have enough to make your business plan feasible. Looking to the future, switching from a Startup Visa to a Business Manager Visa requires a minimum of 5M yen capital.

The program is conducted in English.

Please submit the required documents.

Monthly Check-in is mandatory according to METI regulations, however monthly check-ins may be conducted online.