Part 6/15:
Capital Requirements: The minimum registered capital has skyrocketed from 5 million yen (~$33,000) to 30 million yen (~$200,000). This substantial increase aims to prevent the proliferation of shell companies with minimal real business activity.
Employment Requirements: Business owners must now employ at least one full-time employee who is either Japanese or holds permanent residence, excluding foreigners with mere work visas. This shifts focus toward creating meaningful employment within Japan’s tight labor market, which boasts an unemployment rate of just 2.5%.
Language Proficiency: Applicants must demonstrate Japanese language skills at the N2 level or above, ensuring effective communication in Japan's business environment—a hard requirement previously absent.