Business Licensing in Japan
Many business activities in Japan require specific licenses or permits from government authorities. Operating without required licenses can result in penalties or business closure.
Common Business Licenses
Food & Beverage
- Food Service License: Required for restaurants, cafes, and food establishments
- Liquor License: Required to sell alcoholic beverages
- Food Manufacturing License: For food production facilities
Real Estate
- Real Estate Broker License: Required for property transactions
- Building Lots and Buildings Transaction Business License: For developers
Travel & Tourism
- Travel Agency License: Required for travel agencies
- Hotel/Ryokan License: For accommodation businesses
- Minpaku Registration: For vacation rental properties
Professional Services
- Staffing Agency License: For employment agencies
- Money Lending License: For lending businesses
- Construction License: For construction companies
Retail & Trade
- Antique Dealer License: For secondhand goods
- Pharmaceutical License: For selling medicines
- Import/Export Licenses: For certain regulated goods
License Application Process
- Step 1: Identify required licenses for your business activities
- Step 2: Gather required documents and meet prerequisites
- Step 3: Submit applications to relevant authorities
- Step 4: Complete inspections if required
- Step 5: Receive license and begin operations
Our License Application Services
- License requirement assessment for your business
- Application document preparation
- Liaison with government authorities
- Inspection preparation and support
- License renewal assistance
Important Considerations
Some licenses have specific requirements such as:
- Minimum capital requirements
- Qualified personnel (e.g., licensed managers)
- Facility requirements and inspections
- Insurance or bond requirements
- Japanese residency requirements for responsible persons