Best Residence by Investment Lawyers in Sasebo

1. About Residence by Investment Law in Sasebo, Japan

In Sasebo, Japan, there is no stand‑alone “Residence by Investment” visa. The common approach for foreign investors is the Business Manager status of residence. This requires establishing and operating a business in Japan with legitimate investment, a solid business plan, and evidence of management duties. Local steps in Sasebo typically include registering a company, securing a business address, and aligning with local regulatory requirements.

Practically, applicants often form a Japanese company such as a Kabushiki Kaisha or Godo Kaisha, inject capital, lease office space, and hire staff to meet visa thresholds. After forming the company, you apply for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) through the Immigration Services Agency, then obtain the visa to enter and reside in Japan. Once in Sasebo, you will also handle local residency registration and municipal matters as part of settling in the area.

Because the process is governed by national immigration policy rather than a local ordinance, timing and requirements depend on national rules. Engaging a qualified solicitor or bengoshi who understands both immigration and corporate law is essential to avoid delays. The core path remains consistent for Sasebo applicants, with local logistics managed through Sasebo City Hall and local banks once residence is established.

Key context for Sasebo applicants: you should plan for a physical office in Japan, a formal business plan, and an initial capital allocation typically around several million yen, plus two or more full‑time employees if required by the visa framework.

Source: Immigration Services Agency of Japan and related Japanese law resources discuss the status of residence for Business Manager and the COE process. See official government pages for guidance.

For authoritative definitions and procedural guidance, consult the Immigration Services Agency of Japan and the English language overview at the Ministry of Justice framework pages. Official sources provide the current criteria and process paths for applicants based in Sasebo and other prefectures.

Immigration Services Agency (ISA) - Japan - overview of status of residence, COE, and business management visa guidelines.

e-Gov Elaws - official jurisdictional texts including Immigration Control and related statutes.

2. Why You May Need a Lawyer

Starting a business in Sasebo to qualify for residence requires careful legal planning. A lawyer can map out the best corporate structure, ensure regulatory compliance, and coordinate immigration applications.

• Scenario 1 - You want to establish a company in Sasebo with the aim of obtaining a Business Manager visa. A lawyer helps determine whether Kabushiki Kaisha or Godo Kaisha best fits your capital, board structure, and employment plans, and prepares the required corporate documents for immigration review.
• Scenario 2 - You must file for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) and change your status of residence. A qualified solicitor drafts and assembles the COE package, coordinates with the Immigration Services Agency, and mitigates document gaps that commonly cause processing delays.
• Scenario 3 - You plan to bring your spouse and children as dependents. A lawyer guides dependent visa applications, required proofs of family ties, and timely documentation to avoid gaps in status.
• Scenario 4 - Your visa is delayed or denied. An attorney helps assess grounds for refusal, prepare a timely appeal or reconsideration, and reopen the case with new evidence.
• Scenario 5 - You need ongoing immigration compliance for a growing business in Sasebo. A legal counsel ensures ongoing reporting, changes in business conditions, and possible extensions or status changes are properly handled.
• Scenario 6 - You require cross‑border corporate and personal planning. A solicitor coordinates corporate registrations, tax considerations, and immigration status to support long‑term residence goals.

3. Local Laws Overview

Immigration Control Act (出入国管理及び難民認定法)

This act governs entry, stay, and status of residence for foreign nationals in Japan. It defines status categories such as Business Manager and sets out the Certificate of Eligibility process, visa issuance, and enforcement provisions. Administrative guidelines accompany the statute to clarify procedures.

Source: Immigration Control Act guidance available on official government elaws resources.

Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act (elaws.e-gov.go.jp)

Companies Act (会社法)

The Companies Act regulates the formation, governance, and dissolution of corporate entities in Japan. For a Business Manager visa, most applicants establish a Japanese company in order to demonstrate genuine business activity, office space, and employment creation in Japan. It provides the framework for company capital, directors, and share structure.

Source: Companies Act provisions and related e-Gov guidance.

Companies Act (elaws.e-gov.go.jp)

Guidelines for Status of Residence Procedures

Administrative guidelines help immigration officers assess eligibility for statuses such as Business Manager. They address documentation standards, business plans, and evidence of ongoing operations. While not a separate law, these guidelines shape practical outcomes in Sasebo and elsewhere.

Source: ISA and MOJ guideline materials referenced on official sites.

Ministry of Justice - Immigration Services Agency (ISA)

4. Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Certificate of Eligibility and why do I need it?

A COE confirms your eligibility to obtain a status of residence before you apply for a visa. It streamlines entry procedures and can speed up embassy processing. You must provide a solid business plan and proof of funds as part of the COE package.

What is the Business Manager visa in Japan?

The Business Manager visa enables foreign nationals to manage a Japanese business. Applicants must demonstrate an active business in Japan, a viable plan, and sufficient capital or resources. It requires meeting minimum office and staff criteria as applicable.

What is the minimum investment required for the Business Manager visa?

Typical requirements include a capital investment of at least 5 million yen and proof of two or more full‑time employees in Japan. Variations may occur based on business plan and industry.

Do I need to be in Japan to start the business for the visa?

In most cases you should establish and operate the business within Japan to meet the status of residence criteria. You may be advised to be physically present to manage initial setup and meet ongoing requirements.

How long does COE processing take?

COE processing commonly takes about 1-3 months, but times can vary with case complexity and document completeness. Your lawyer can help keep the files complete to avoid delays.

What documents are typically required for COE and visa applications?

Documents usually include a detailed business plan, corporate registration documents, lease agreement for an office, proof of funds, and personnel plans. Additional items may be requested by immigration officers in Sasebo.

Can I apply for dependent visas for my spouse and children?

Yes. Your spouse and dependent children may apply for dependent statuses if they meet criteria and you maintain qualifying residence conditions. Your attorney can prepare the supporting documents and coordinate timing with COE processing.

What is the difference between Kabushiki Kaisha and Godo Kaisha for investment?

A Kabushiki Kaisha (KK) is a stock company with a formal board, often preferred for larger ventures. A Godo Kaisha (GK) is a simplified company equivalent to a limited liability company. Your choice affects governance, taxes, and the required capital structure for immigration purposes.

Do I need to hire a local lawyer or can I handle this myself?

While you can file some documents on your own, a lawyer with experience in immigration and corporate law reduces risk of errors, helps meet Japanese presentation standards, and can liaise with local authorities in Sasebo more efficiently.

What happens if my visa is denied or delayed?

Your attorney can assess denial grounds, help prepare a request for reconsideration, and guide you through alternative routes or adjustments to your business plan to improve chances of approval.

How long does it take to obtain permanent residency after a Business Manager visa?

Permanent residency generally requires longer residence in Japan and favorable immigration history. The Business Manager route can contribute to long‑term residence, but timelines vary by individual and visa criteria. A lawyer can map out a path tailored to your situation.

Is there a faster path for skilled professionals in regional areas like Sasebo?

Specialized programs and points frameworks may apply to skilled professionals, but regional incentives depend on current policy at the time. A solicitor can explain any eligible options specific to Sasebo and Nagasaki Prefecture.

5. Additional Resources

• Immigration Services Agency (ISA) - Japan Official government resource on status of residence, COE procedures, and visa statuses. https://www.isa.go.jp/en/index.html
• e-Gov Elaws Official texts of Japanese laws including the Immigration Control Act and the Companies Act. https://elaws.e-gov.go.jp
• Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) Official site with guidance for foreign investors establishing business in Japan. https://www.jetro.go.jp/en/

6. Next Steps

1. Clarify your business goal in Sasebo and identify the best corporate structure (KK or GK) with your lawyer within 1-2 weeks.
2. Prepare a robust business plan, office space plans, and employment projections for immigration review within 2-4 weeks.
3. Engage a qualified solicitor (bengoshi) to assemble COE documentation and coordinate with the Immigration Services Agency in Japan. Target a 2-4 week kickoff for filing.
4. Submit the Certificate of Eligibility application through the ISA with your lawyer and track progress for 1-3 months, depending on case complexity.
5. Once COE is approved, apply for the visa at a Japanese consulate or at the local immigration office. Expect a 1-4 week processing window after COE, subject to demand and backlog.
6. Upon visa grant, arrange for arrival in Sasebo, register your address with Sasebo City Hall, and set up bank accounts and business operations. Allow 2-6 weeks for settling in.
7. Establish ongoing compliance practices with your lawyer for corporate filings and immigration status extensions as your business grows.