GUIDE · MONEY IN
Sending startup capital to Japan
海外から資本金を送るCapital payment, BOJ report and transfer costs
With ¥30 million needed for a Business Manager company, how you move money into Japan matters — for registration, for the bank and for immigration.
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Capital goes
Before
Company registration
Account
In Japan
Promoter or director, at a bank that handles it
BOJ report
45 days
General rule for foreign investors
Keep
Records
Where every yen came from
Where the capital goes
For a company set up without public offering (the usual case), JETRO explains that capital can be paid into the account of the promoter, the representative director or a director. The bank statement or passbook copy becomes proof for registration.
- Banks that can handle the payment include Japanese banks (domestic and overseas branches) and branches of foreign banks in Japan
- If every promoter and director lives abroad, a third party in Japan can receive the payment under a power of attorney
- Send the money after the articles are certified (for a KK) and before you register
Keep a clean paper trail
Do
- Send from an account in your own name
- Keep statements showing where the money came from (savings, sale of assets, investors)
- Use one or a few transfers you can explain
- Keep the exchange rate and fees on record for your accountant
Avoid
- Cash brought in and deposited without records
- Money borrowed briefly and paid back right after registration
- Many small transfers from different people with no explanation
Immigration checks that the capital is real, and banks look at large transfers from abroad when they screen new companies.
Report to the Bank of Japan
Under the Foreign Exchange and Foreign Trade Act, a foreign investor setting up a company usually reports to the Bank of Japan within 45 days of establishment. Some industries related to national security or public order need prior notification instead, filed before you invest.
Comparing ways to send money
| Way | Good for | Check |
|---|---|---|
| Your home bank (wire) | A familiar process and clear records | Fees on both ends and the exchange rate margin |
| Money transfer services | Often lower costs and a rate close to the market rate | Transfer limits, whether the receiving bank accepts it, and records in your name |
| Japanese bank’s overseas branch | Large amounts with a Japanese bank you will keep using | Opening requirements in your home country |
Costs change daily. Compare the total amount that arrives in yen, not only the fee.
FAQ
Can I pay company capital into a bank account outside Japan?
JETRO lists banks that can handle capital payment: Japanese banks in Japan and their overseas branches, and branches of foreign banks in Japan. Check with the bank before you send.
Do foreign investors need to report a new company in Japan?
Usually yes. A report to the Bank of Japan is generally due within 45 days of establishment. Some industries need prior notification before investing.
What is the cheapest way to send money to Japan?
It depends on the amount and your country. Compare how many yen arrive after fees and the exchange rate, and keep records in your own name for the bank and immigration.
Sources
- Setting up business in Japan — capital payment and BOJ report — JETRO
- Business Manager status — capital requirement — Immigration Services Agency
This page is a plain-English summary, not legal advice. The official Japanese guidelines always take priority.
NEED HELP IN ENGLISH?
Talk to an English-speaking expert
Tax accountants and gyoseishoshi who help foreign founders document their capital — in English.
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USEFUL TOOLS
- Zeirishi.com — find a tax accountant (free enquiry) ↗Japanese-language service
- Money Forward Cloud Company Setup — free sign-up ↗Japanese-language service
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