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GUIDE · TAX ACCOUNTANT

Finding a tax accountant in Japan

税理士の探し方Zeirishi — licensed, registered tax professionals

Only licensed tax accountants (zeirishi) may file taxes for others for a fee in Japan. Here is how to find one who fits a foreign-owned business.

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Updated October 26, 2026 · Checked against the official site by our editors

Licensed

Zeirishi

Registered nationally

Check

Register

Japan Federation of CPTA

Ask

English?

And foreign-owned clients

Also helps

Visa plan

Business Manager plan check

Why it matters

  • Only registered zeirishi may prepare tax returns or give tax advice to others as a business
  • For Business Manager, a tax accountant, CPA or certified SME consultant must check your business plan
  • Tax filings, notifications and payroll rules are in Japanese — see Taxes for a new company

How to find and check one

  1. 01

    Make a shortlist 候補

    Ask other foreign founders, your bank or JETRO, or use a matching service.

  2. 02

    Check the register 登録の確認

    Every zeirishi is listed by the Japan Federation of Certified Public Tax Accountants’ Associations.

  3. 03

    Ask the right questions 確認

    English support, experience with foreign-owned companies, your industry, monthly fee and what it includes.

  4. 04

    Agree the scope in writing 契約

    Bookkeeping, payroll, consumption tax, year-end adjustment and annual returns.

Questions to ask

  • Can you communicate and send reports in English?
  • How many foreign-owned clients do you have?
  • Which accounting software do you use with clients?
  • Do you help with subsidies, loans or the Business Manager plan check?
  • What is included in the monthly fee, and what costs extra?

FAQ

How do I find an English-speaking tax accountant in Japan?

Ask other foreign founders or your bank, use a matching service, and confirm the person is a registered zeirishi on the Japan Federation of Certified Public Tax Accountants’ Associations site.

Do I need a tax accountant in Japan?

It is not required, but filings are complex and in Japanese. A tax accountant can also check the business plan required for the Business Manager status.

Can a non-licensed consultant file my taxes?

No. Preparing tax returns for others as a business is limited to licensed zeirishi.

Sources

This page is a plain-English summary, not legal advice. The official Japanese guidelines always take priority.

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