Japan Visa Advisory Services​

Japan Visa Advisory Services

The interaction of visa issues with company set-up, individual tax, and corporate tax matters is often complex. Even the Japan business entity chosen by a client can impact what visas are available.

As a member of the Accounting Asia Group, JAPAN VISA™ can provide integrated solutions to meet our clients’ needs. Our advisory services are led by top ex-Big 4 professionals who provide specialist consulting for both individuals and corporations.

Legal and tax issues often arise at the corporate level with regard to the selection and establishment of an appropriate business – for example establishment of a Japan subsidiary versus the establishment of a Japan branch of a foreign company.

Special issues arise when planning compensation for director level employees.

Applying for a visa to live and work in Japan may raise tax and compensation structuring issues for the applicant.

Common advisory topics include:

1. Tax and Compensation Planning for International Assignees Coming to Japan

Tax and compensation planning for international assignees is one of the most important considerations associated with a Japan work visa application. Without proper guidance, the assignee may suffer unnecessary taxes in both Japan and her home country.

The following article provides information on Japan Tax: Tax Planning for Foreigners Working in Japan.

2. Japan Business Entity Selection and Establishment

The first step for clients new to Japan is the selection and establishment of an appropriate Japan business entity. Japan has a number of business entity options, each with unique corporate tax consequences in both Japan and the foreign investor’s home country.

For foreign companies that do not wish to set up a stand alone entity in Japan, consideration may be given to a Japan PEO style solution.

The following article provides additional information regarding Choosing a Japan Entity: KK, GK, Japan Branch and Japan Representative Office.

Visa applications can move forward only after the appropriate business entity is established.

If required, JAPAN VISA™, can provide a Japan nominee director for the purposes of incorporation and thereafter on a long term basis if requested. We also can provide a Japan Registered Address Solution.

3. Compensation Planning for Directors of Japanese Companies

Director level employees of Japanese companies often require special compensation and tax planning. 

Directors may suffer adverse individual tax consequences and the company may not be able to deduct performance bonus payments for corporate tax purposes.

JAPAN VISA™ can assist with compensation and tax planning for director level employees, as well as offer alternative solutions such as Japan Nominee Directors.

The following article provides some additional information about Issues in Structuring Compensation for Directors of Japanese Companies.

4. Japan Visas for Same-Sex Partners

Assignees seeking to bring a same-sex partner to Japan as a dependent may face unique challenges. 

JAPAN VISA™ is able to advise on available options.

The following article discusses Japan Visas for Same-Sex Couples.

5. Sponsoring a Japan Visa for a Maid, Nanny, Housekeeper, or Other Personal Help

Certain categories of assignees are able to sponsor a Japan Visa for a Maid, Nanny, Housekeeper, or other Personal Help.

JAPAN VISA™ can advise and assist in this regard.

Contact JAPAN VISA™ to learn how our advisory services can assist your business to be successful in Japan.

The above is provided for general information purposes only and does not constitute advice to undertake or refrain from undertaking any action. Only qualified Japanese professionals are able to advise on Japan immigration, legal, and tax matters.