Applying for the Business Manager Visa: Should You Choose a Kabushiki-Kaisha (KK) or a Godo-Kaisha (GK)?
To obtain a Business Manager visa in Japan, you are generally required to invest at least 5 million yen in a business. As a result, setting up a company is usually the first step.
One of the most common questions we receive is: “Should I establish a Kabushiki-Kaisha (KK) or a Godo-Kaisha (GK)?”
This article explains the differences between a KK and a GK and provides practical guidance on which structure is more suitable when applying for the Business Manager visa.
Basic Differences Between KK and GK
| Item | Kabushiki-Kaisha (KK) | Godo-Kaisha (GK) |
|---|---|---|
| Establishment Cost | Approx. ¥250,000–¥300,000 | Approx. ¥60,000–¥100,000 |
| Articles of Incorporation Certification | Required (by a notary public) | Not required |
| Reputation / Credibility | High (listed companies possible) | Relatively low (cannot be listed) |
| Management Structure | Shareholders and directors are separate | Investors usually manage the company |
| Profit Distribution | Automatically based on share ratio | Flexible – freely set in the articles |
| Public Disclosure | Required (e.g., in official gazette) | Not required |
Godo-Kaisha (GK) is a relatively new company structure introduced in 2006. It allows flexible management and a simpler establishment process. Meanwhile, KK is more recognized and generally considered more credible, especially by banks and large corporations.
Differences in Business Manager Visa Applications
In visa screening, immigration authorities do not assess your eligibility based on whether you choose KK or GK.
Instead, they focus on:
- Whether your investment is at least ¥5 million
- Whether your business is real and sustainable
- Whether there is a solid business plan with expected revenue
- Whether you have secured a business office
Therefore, either KK or GK is acceptable for the Business Manager visa, as long as the essential requirements are met.
When to Choose KK or GK
Which structure to choose depends on your priorities and business plan. Below are some general guidelines:
When GK Is Suitable
- You want to minimize startup costs
- You are the sole investor or have a small, trusted team
- You are establishing a Japanese subsidiary of a foreign company
- You are not planning to go public or bring in outside investors
When KK Is Suitable
- You want to gain higher credibility with clients and banks
- You plan to raise funds or issue shares in the future
- You have multiple investors and need clear voting rights based on capital contribution
Either Structure Works for the Visa Application
To reiterate, immigration authorities do not require you to form a KK in order to obtain a Business Manager visa.
The key points are:
- A minimum capital investment of ¥5 million
- A secured office location
- A realistic and operational business plan
Your company structure is merely a matter of operational style. GK is just as acceptable as KK in the eyes of immigration.
Our Recommendation: GK Is Often the Smarter Choice
At our office, we have supported many successful Business Manager visa applications. In our experience, establishing a GK is often the most efficient and practical choice.
Advantages of GK
- Lower incorporation costs (no notary, lower registration tax)
- Faster and simpler registration process
- Greater flexibility in business management
On Credibility
It’s true that KK is more widely known in Japan and may seem more trustworthy to some clients. However, a GK is still a fully recognized corporate entity, capable of opening bank accounts, signing contracts, and conducting business normally.
Major Global Companies Use GK
Many global companies such as Apple, Amazon, and Google operate in Japan under the GK structure. This is because of its simplicity, flexibility, and cost efficiency.
Our Policy
If your goal is to launch your business efficiently and proceed quickly with your visa application, a GK is highly recommended. We will always listen to your business needs and help you choose the structure that suits you best.
If you’re unsure, feel free to contact us for a consultation.