Thinking of Starting a Business on Your Highly Skilled Professional (HSP) Visa in Japan? Here’s What to Know.

If you’re in Japan on a Highly Skilled Professional (Type 1) visa, you might be thinking about launching your own business. The good news is, it’s possible! However, there are some important rules to follow to make sure you stay compliant with your visa and keep everything running smoothly. This guide breaks down the main things you need to consider.

Relevant post: Can Holders of the Highly Skilled Professional Visa Engage in Side Jobs and Start a Business?

Can You Start a Business on an HSP Visa?

Yes, as a Highly Skilled Professional (Type 1) visa holder, you can start and run your own business. The key condition is that this business must be related to the main professional work you do – the work your HSP visa was approved for. Think of it as expanding on your current expertise.

Important Rules for HSP Visa Holders with a Side Business:

To make sure your business venture aligns with your visa requirements, keep these points in mind:

• Your Main Job Comes First: The work you do for the company that sponsors your HSP visa must remain your primary focus. Managing your own business should be a secondary activity.
• Keep it Connected: Your new business needs to be clearly linked to your main professional field. You should be doing it alongside your primary job.
• Balancing Your Time and Income: It’s important that your side business doesn’t overshadow your main job. Generally, the income you earn and the hours you spend on your own business should not be more than what you earn or spend on your primary employment. The immigration authorities see this as a “side business.” This also means you cannot leave your main job (the one your HSP Type 1 visa is tied to) to focus only on your new venture.

Do You Need a Special Permit for Your Side Business?

If your side business is directly related to your main professional work (the work your HSP visa is for), you generally don’t need to apply for a separate “Permission to Engage in Activity Other Than That Permitted Under the Status of Residence Previously Granted.”

In Simple Terms:

Japan’s system allows Highly Skilled Professionals to explore entrepreneurship, but it’s designed to ensure your main professional role remains your priority. By understanding and following these guidelines—especially regarding how your business relates to your main job and how you balance your commitments—you can pursue your business goals while keeping your visa in good standing.

Planning carefully and staying informed about these rules are the keys to successfully combining your professional role with your entrepreneurial ambitions.