Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know which business license I need in Japan?
The licenses you need depend on your specific business activities. Japan regulates many industries through a permit system known as kyoninka seido (許認可制度). A Gyoseishoshi (administrative scrivener) can assess your business plan and identify every license required before you begin operations. Common examples include food service licenses, travel agency licenses, real estate broker licenses, and construction permits.
How long does it take to get a business license?
Processing times vary significantly depending on the license type and the issuing authority. Simple notifications such as antique dealer registrations may take two to four weeks. More complex licenses such as liquor licenses or construction permits can take two to three months or longer. Incomplete applications or document errors can cause additional delays, so accurate preparation is essential.
Can I apply for a license before incorporating my company?
In most cases, you need an established legal entity before applying for a business license. Many permits require a registered company address, a representative director, and other corporate details. It is generally best to complete your company incorporation (kaisha setsuritsu / 会社設立) first and then proceed with license applications. Some preliminary steps like facility preparation can happen in parallel.
Do business licenses need to be renewed?
Yes, many business licenses in Japan have a fixed validity period and must be renewed before they expire. For example, construction licenses (kensetsu-gyo kyoka / 建設業許可) are valid for five years, and travel agency licenses must be renewed every five years. Some licenses, such as the antique dealer license (kobutsu-sho kyoka / 古物商許可), do not expire but require you to report any changes in business details. It is important to track renewal deadlines to avoid operating without a valid license.
What happens if I operate without the required license?
Operating without a required license (mukyoka eigyo / 無許可営業) is a serious legal violation in Japan. Penalties can include fines, criminal charges, and forced business closure. In some industries, responsible individuals may face imprisonment. Additionally, operating without proper permits can jeopardize your visa status if you hold a Business Manager visa. It is always safer to confirm your licensing requirements before starting operations.
Can a Gyoseishoshi help with license applications?
Yes. A Gyoseishoshi (gyosei shoshi / 行政書士) is a nationally licensed professional authorized to prepare and submit permit and license applications to government agencies on your behalf. They handle document preparation, liaise with authorities, and ensure applications meet all requirements. This is especially valuable for foreign business owners who may face language barriers or unfamiliarity with Japanese administrative procedures.
Do I need separate licenses for online and physical sales?
In many cases, yes. Japan distinguishes between retail sales at a physical location and mail-order or online sales (tsuushin hanbai / 通信販売). For example, selling alcohol in a physical store requires a general retail liquor license, while selling alcohol online requires a mail-order liquor license. Similar distinctions exist for pharmaceutical sales and certain other regulated products. You should verify the specific requirements for each sales channel.
Are there special requirements for foreign-owned businesses?
The licensing requirements themselves are generally the same regardless of the nationality of the business owner. However, foreign-owned companies may face practical challenges such as providing documentation from overseas, meeting residency requirements for responsible persons, and navigating applications in Japanese. Having a qualified Gyoseishoshi who understands both the regulatory framework and the needs of international clients can make the process significantly smoother.
