Guides

Which entity fits your Japan entry?

Short answer: research only points to a representative office. Selling in Japan needs a registered form: a branch if the parent can carry the liability, otherwise a subsidiary, usually a KK if you may raise equity and a GK if you want lighter formalities.

Last checked: 2026-10-30 ・ Based on JETRO: Types of operation in Japan and JETRO: Comparison of types of business operation.

1. Will you sell or sign customer contracts in Japan?
2. Should the parent company's liability be limited?
3. Might you sell shares to investors or the public in Japan?
4. Do you want to avoid a yearly shareholders' meeting?

Compare the four forms

Representative officeBranchGK (Godo-Kaisha)KK (Kabushiki-Kaisha)
Can make salesNoYesYesYes
RegistrationNot requiredRequiredRequiredRequired
CapitalNone listedNo capital1 JPY or more1 JPY or more
Parent's liabilityNot a separate companyUnlimitedLimited to contributionLimited to contribution
Regular general meetingNone listedNot requiredNot requiredIn principle, every year
Public offering of sharesNoNoNot possiblePossible
Own bank account and leaseNot ordinarilyCheck with your bankCheck with your bankCheck with your bank

Sources: JETRO 1.1, JETRO 1.2. "Check with your bank" means JETRO's pages do not settle it for your case.

FAQ

Can a representative office in Japan make sales?

No. JETRO says representative offices may do market surveys, collect information, purchase goods and run publicity, but are not permitted to engage in sales activities.

Does a branch office in Japan need capital?

No capital is required for a branch office, according to JETRO's comparison table. The trade-off is that the foreign parent is ultimately responsible for the branch's debts.

What is the minimum capital for a KK or GK in Japan?

JETRO's comparison lists 1 JPY or more for both a Kabushiki-Kaisha (KK) and a Godo-Kaisha (GK). Check what your bank, your visa path and your cash needs call for, since those can require far more.

What is the main difference between a KK and a GK?

A KK generally holds a yearly shareholders' meeting and can offer shares to the public. A GK does not need a regular members' meeting and cannot make a public offering, and it can later be reorganized into a KK.

General information only, not legal, tax or immigration advice. Rules change, so confirm with the official source and a licensed professional before you act. Tax treatment, including how your home country treats each form, is not covered here: ask a tax professional.