Hey everyone, long time lurker here but due to fortunate circumstances I might be moving to Japan in Q4 2023 or Q1 2024 to start and operate a new company with Japanese business partners.
I’ve read up on stuff such as owning property as well as starting a business in Japan, but I do have some questions with regards to work especially since it will be a new business. For those wondering, the business will mainly handle food importation.
1.) I’ve read that foreigners can buy houses/apartments/property in Japan and I am planning to do so. Rent is also an option but as I am planning to stay here long term, i believe it would be better to invest in a property I can come back to.
My question is what should I expect the monthly expenses to be? (I.e. electricity, water, internet, other utilities, etc.) Does it vary depending on where I stay?
2.) Would it be better to have my Japanese partners start the business first then i will come in after on a work visa? Or should I just go straight for a business investor visa (the more expensive route)?
3.) Since the business will be food importation, would it be better to have the office located nearer to a port such as Yokohama or will downtown Tokyo be more viable for faster distribution?
Also how big is the difference in rent when it comes to the two locations. My partners are mostly based in Yokohama, but I plan to stay in Tokyo since I have relatives living there.
Any other advice, tip, suggestions are welcome or if anyone here has done the same since this will be a big investment on my end as well as with my Japanese business partners.
Thank you very much!
1 comment
1. You can’t buy one straight away. You would need to rent first. If you enter into a mortgage without permanent residence, you’ll likely be turned down h less you have cash to not need a loan.
2. Have them start the business and invite you to Japan to work there. It will be an easier visa process.
3. Location depends on customers and where you will operate. That’s something for the partners to look at.
4. Location costs depend on how dense the area is. For example I have a fairly new 3 bedroom apartment outside Tokyo. For the same rent price. I could barely get a small studio apartment in Tokyo in a really old building.