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Influencer Marketing
Expand your reach and engage with your target audience using this trending technique that blends celebrity endorsements with social media marketing.
Leading High Performing Remote Teams
How can leaders ensure that performance remains high in remote or hybrid-work environments?
Design Thinking
Learn the 5 phases of this problem-solving methodology and switch from technology-centered to user-centered thinking.
Gantt Chart
Invented in the early 20th century, the Gantt Chart is one of the building blocks of modern project management. In this online course, you'll learn how this tool can be used effectively to monitor progress and achieve your team's goals.
Navigating Change Successfully
The working landscape is continually shifting and being disrupted, so how to employees maintain a sense of stability? Listen to CEO and president of Carl ZEISS Japan Stefan Sacre share his expertise on dealing with change in organizations and entire industries.
Halo Effect
The halo effect is often leveraged for marketing and promotion. But as a type of cognitive bias, it can also have a subconscious impact on decision-making in the workplace. Learn why and (how to overcome it) in this online course.
Anchoring and Framing
Want to increase your confidence during negotiations? Master the principles of anchoring and framing to take your negotiation skills to the next level.
ZOPA and BATNA
Understanding ZOPA and BATNA will help you become a better negotiator, create more value, and feel more confident at the table.
Content Marketing
In this course, you’ll learn how compelling blogs, videos, podcasts, and other media can reach customers and drive sales. You’ll also learn steps for creating an effective content marketing plan, and some important ways to measure its impact and success.
Content marketing is a essential digital marketing strategy for companies looking to provide relevant and useful information to support your community and attract new customers.
Get started on your content marketing journey today.
Sustainable Innovation in Times of Disruption: Choices for a Better Society
There are opportunities for progress all around us. The key is to innovate on these opportunities sustainably.
To help identify most effective path forward, you'll need to gain a global perspective to these challenges in an open discussion. How can Japan and the world take action to create a more sustainable, innovative world? Where do you fit in?
It's time to find out.
Social Media & Digital Communications: Impact on Global Public Opinion
Social and digital media have dominated the communications industry for decades. But it's no secret that social media has the power to sway public opinion, and the way in which many companies use these platforms could be seen as manipulative.
What do companies need to be aware of when utilizing social and digital media? How can these mediums be used to better communicate strategically with the world?
Discover what top media and communications experts have to say.
Blockchain
Blockchain is one of the most captivating technologies out there. Learn what it is and how to make use of its opportunities in this short online course.
Mehrabian’s Rule
The 7-38-55 Rule, developed by Albert Mehrabian, suggests that effective communication relies less on the words we choose than on our tone of our voice, appearance, and body language. Learn how to put this theory to use for better communication in business.
Pareto Principle
Your time and resources are limited. Efficiency means learning to prioritize. The Pareto principle (also called the 80-20 rule) can help you identify the best way to use your time for maximum results.
Country Analysis Framework
Overseas expansion requires careful planning. The Country Analysis Framework can help you look beyond an industry-level analysis and reframe your view based on performance, strategy, and context. Try this short course to learn how it works.
SECI Model
The SECI model illustrates how knowledge is created and shared. Learn how to put it to use for best practices, and how the Japanese concept of “ba” fits in to broaden your perspective.
Johari Window Model
The Johari Window Model is a self-awareness framework that helps you better understand . . . you. Learn how its four quadrants can help you identify gaps between how you see yourself, and how others see you.
Sunk Costs
Wondering if you should continue an investment or look for something new? Sunk costs can have a powerful psychological impact on decision-making. Learn how to recognize them to ensure rational decisions.
CAGE Distance Framework
Want to expand overseas? The CAGE distance framework can help ensure you're constructing a solid global strategy in four areas: cultural, administrative, economic, and geographic. Learn how to leverage useful differences between countries, identify potential obstacles, and achieve global business success.
Groupthink
Groupthink refers to group pressure and the perception of consensus which together lead to ill-formed decisions—or even unnecessary risks. Learn to identify the warning signs of groupthink and apply countermeasures in this online course.
Deductive and Inductive Reasoning
Solving problems with the best results means using two types of thinking: deductive and inductive reasoning. In this online course, learn to form a broad premise, make observations, and form conclusions from different perspectives.
Critical Thinking: Hypothesis-Driven Thinking
Anyone can come up with a good idea. The real challenge is putting that idea into action. In this online course, explore how to form compelling, testable hypotheses and bring ideas to life in your own organization.
Critical Thinking: Structured Reasoning
Even a few simple techniques for logical decision making and persuasion can vastly improve your skills as a leader. Explore how critical thinking can help you evaluate complex business problems, reduce bias, and devise effective solutions.
Critical Thinking: Problem-Solving
Problem-solving is a central business skill, and yet it's the one many people struggle with most. This course will show you how to apply critical thinking techniques to common business examples, avoid misunderstandings, and get at the root of any problem.
How to Dream
Join globally renowned author and Columbia Business School professor Dr. Sheena Iyengar as she explains how to approach your dreams with a new perspective. Learn to reflect on what you long to accomplish and what stands in your way.
Logical Thinking
Logical thinking is at the heart of confident, persuasive decisions. This course will equip you with a five-point approach to more becoming a more logical thinker. Learn to classify ideas and distinguish fact from opinion.
Investing & Diversity: The Changing Faces of Venture Capitalists
Is the venture capital industry embracing diversity in investors? Watch global venture capitalists from around the world discuss the state of things and what needs to be done for a more inclusive future.
Servant Leadership
There's more to leadership than driving a team to profit. In fact, there's a word for looking beyond self-interest to prioritize individual growth: servant leadership. Try this course for a quick breakdown of what that is, how it works, and how it can lead to organizational success.
Organizational Behavior and Leadership
Ever wonder what makes a great leader? Whether your role requires leadership or not, understanding organizational behavior is useful for your career. This course from GLOBIS Unlimited can set you on your way.
Leadership vs. Management
Leadership and management are different skills, but today’s leaders must have both. Try out this course from GLOBIS Unlimited to understand the difference, as well as when and why each skill is necessary for motivation, communication, and value.
Strategy: Creating Value Inside Your Company
Have you ever wondered why certain companies are more successful than others? The answer is strategy: internal processes that control costs, allocate resources, and create value. This course from GLOBIS Unlimited can give you the tools you need for that strategic edge.
Strategy: Understanding the External Environment
To plan strategy on any level, you need to understand your company's external environment. In fact, your level of understanding can impact hiring, budgeting, marketing, or nearly any other part of the business world. Want to learn how to do all that? This course from GLOBIS Unlimited is the perfect first step!
Using Japanese Values to Thrive in Global Business
Japanese companies have unique cultural, communication, and operational challenges. But they also have values that have led to remarkable longevity. Check out this seminar to hear how these values help earn trust from overseas head offices and develop employees.
Turnaround Leadership: The Differences Between Japan and the West
What's the best way for leaders to communicate a shift in corporate strategy? How do you even know when it's time for such a change? This course explains how Japan might have one answer, Western companies another.
Conflict Management
Conflicts in the workplace are inevitable. But they can lead to positive outcomes if they’re managed well. Check out this online course for a two-step process that can help you manage conflict successfully.
Evernote Founder: How Tech Startups Can Break through in Japan
Can startup models from Hollywood and Silicon Valley succeed anywhere? Phil Libin, cofounder and CEO of startup incubator All Turtles, explains how AI can solve everyday problems to bring products to market.
Women Empowerment: Lessons from Cartier
How can women overcome gender inequality and reach their leadership goals? Cartier Japan CEO June Miyachi shares her secret in this special course from GLOBIS Unlimited.
Marketing: Reaching Your Target
Every company works hard to get its products into the hands of customers. Are you doing everything you can to compete? In this course, you’ll find a winning formula to turn a product idea into real sales. Follow along through the fundamentals of the marketing mix and see how companies successfully bring products to market.
Marketing Mix
Seeing good products into the hands of customers is no easy task. The marketing mix can help. It's a collection of strategies and tactics companies utilize to get customers to purchase their products or services, and is an essential part of the overall marketing process.
The Principles of Negotiation
With the proper skills and attitude, anyone can become a successful negotiator. But first, you'll need to learn the basics to prepare for, assess, and respond to offers for the best results. GLOBIS Unlimited can help.
Negotiation: Creating Value
Want to create more shared value between yourself and your negotiation opponent? Discover how cognitive bias affects the judgment of others. Try this course from GLOBIS Unlimited to master the value of negotiation.
Finding Your Life Purpose with Ikigai
Ikigai can guide you in your quest for self-discovery. Listen to Japanese brain scientist Ken Mogi explain why and how.
Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs
Want to leverage Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs as a leader? Try this short course to see how the theory can be applied in practical work scenarios.
Confirmation Bias
We all subconsciously collect information that reinforces our preconceptions. It's natural . . . but it does lead to a kind of flawed decision-making called confirmation bias. To become more objective and impartial, check out this course from GLOBIS Unlimited!
An Investor's Lesson to Entrepreneurs
Entrepreneurs have the power to transform societies for the better. But how do you attract investors to start or grow a business? Or to sell one? Check out this seminar for the answers to these and more, straight from a master venture capitalist!
Managerial Accounting
Managerial accounting is a powerful way to measure progress, identify problems, and meet your goals. Check out this course to learn how data-backed decisions can help you run your business.
Finance Basics: 1
For a healthy mix of quantitative planning, evaluation, and management, you need solid decision-making. And finance is the secret sauce! Get the essentials of finance in this two-part course from GLOBIS Unlimited.
Basic Accounting: Financial Analysis
Want to compare your performance vs. a competitor? Or evaluate a potential vendor? Then you'll need to conduct a financial analysis. This course will teach you how to use three financial statements and evaluate financial performance in terms of profitability, efficiency, soundness, growth, and overall strength.
Career Anchors
What drives you to be good at your job?
Career anchors are based on your values, desires, motivations, and abilities. They are the immovable parts of your professional self-image that guide you throughout your career journey.
Try this short GLOBIS Unlimited course to identify which of the eight career anchors is yours!
Digital Marketing Psychology to Transform Your Business
How does digital marketing really differ from traditional marketing? How is social media changing things really? And what's going on in Asia?
Pyramid Structure
Having the pyramid structure in your communication toolkit can not only help you approach a problem, but convince others that your solution is valid. Break away from linear thinking and test your logical thinking with this course from GLOBIS Unlimited!
Leadership with Passion through Kokorozashi
The key ingredient to success? Passion.
Finding your kokorozashi will unify your passions and skills to create positive change in society. This GLOBIS Unlimited course will help you develop the values and lifelong goals you need to become a strong, passion-driven leader.
AI First Companies – Implementation and Impact
AI is changing the way companies operate. How do you structure teams to increase efficiency?
Technovate in the Era of Industry 4.0
Is Industry 4.0 is the next step of human evolution human civilization? Dr. Jorge Calvo seems to think so. Join him to learn how the past can help you set goals for an exciting future of digital innovation.
Technovate Thinking
Business leaders of tomorrow need to harness the power of technology and innovation. That means understanding algorithms and how they drive business results. Discover opportunities to make technology work for your competitive edge.
Product Life Cycle
Every product takes a natural course through the market—there's a how, when, and why customers adopt products at different stages. Check out this course from GLOBIS Unlimited to find out how a product you use every day is part of this cycle.
Logic Tree
Logical thinking is the most valuable asset any business professional can have. That's why logic trees are such a valuable tool—they can help you identify a problem, break it down, and build it back up to a solution.
MECE Principle
Using the MECE principle can help ensure you categorize without gaps or overlaps. Check out this course from GLOBIS Unlimited for a practical demonstration of how it works!
“Investment Migration” is a popular yet controversial business. More than 80 countries offer fast-tracked citizenship and residence rights (such as golden visas and golden passports) to affluent foreigners willing to invest in real estate, business, or development.
However, “buying” immediate permanent residency rights through citizenship-by-investment schemes can be socio-economically problematic. Rising security issues, housing inflation, and the influx of retiree migrants have made governments recently rethink golden visa issuances. This year, European countries began phasing out golden visas, including Ireland, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain.
While Japan does allow entrepreneurs from other countries to start businesses within their borders, there is no Japan golden visa. The country does not offer “instant” permanent residency or citizenship routes via investment. Reflecting its culturally rooted business philosophy of kaizen (continuous improvement), permanent residency or citizenship in Japan is a privilege earned over time that cannot be bought.
If you are a foreigner interested in starting a business in Japan with the experience and resources to do so (and do not currently live and work in the country), read on.
What is the Japan Investor Visa?
Also known as the Business Manager Visa, Business Investor Visa, Japan Investment Visa, and Active Investor Visa, the Japan Investor Visa is a business visa for foreigners interested in starting or managing a business in Japan.
It is not a citizenship-by-investment visa, usually obtained through large investments such as real estate purchases, nor is it classified as an employment or work visa. To qualify, investments must specifically be structured into a business.
Minimum Investment: ¥5 million ($30,000 or more).
Validity: One, three, or five years, renewable depending on business performance.
Citizenship eligibility: three to five years, depending on investment. Japan does not recognize dual citizenship.
Permanent residency: Applicants unwilling to renounce their original citizenship may apply for permanent residency after ten years.
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Why choose Japan’s Investor Visa?
Country, business culture, and geography: Japan’s dynamic business environment, strategic location in Asia-Pacific, and strong passport ranking (granting visa-free access to over 190 countries) have long made it an attractive investment destination.
Its strict rule of law, transparent business ethics, and protectionist policies entail strict legal requirements and a long-term commitment of compliance from foreign entrepreneurs and investors interested in eventual permanent residency or citizenship.
Affordable and competitive cost of investment: At ¥5 million ($30,000), the cost of Japan’s Investor Visa is much lower than the golden visas offered by other countries–which range anywhere from $130,000 in Vanuatu to $2 million in Switzerland. Applicants can also bring their spouse and children to obtain residency.
Japan Investor Visa Requirements
Applicant’s Legal Eligibility: The applicant must meet general requirements for entering Japan–such as having a valid passport, a clean criminal record, and no previous violations of Japanese law.
Applicant’s Business Background, Expertise, and History: Applicants should ideally have at least three years of relevant business experience. Without this, the visa application might be rejected.
An Approved Business Plan: A business plan explains the nature of the applicant’s business and demonstrates how it is operable and profitable over time. It should be clear, concise, detailed, compliant with Japanese law, and elaborately explained. Most importantly, it should be approved by relevant Japanese authorities.
Business Licenses: The applicant must procure all industry-relevant licenses necessary to operate their business in their chosen sector, which may require specific certifications.
Investment Capital: Although Japan has not stipulated a minimum investment amount, ¥5 million is reported to be enough to demonstrate the applicant’s commitment to their business venture.A larger investment increases the likelihood of visa approval.
A Co-Founder or Co-Director: He or she should be a legal resident of Japan (1. a Japanese national, their spouse, or their child; 2. a permanent resident, their spouse, or their child; or, 3. a foreign national with a long-term visa).
Employees: Two full-time employees (apart from the applicant) who legally reside in Japan.
Office Space: A physical space and actual location of business. Home addresses, P/O boxes, shared offices, pop-up stalls, rented rooms, or virtual offices do not qualify. Immigration officials may also visit the business’s office space for assessment purposes.
Local assistance: It is highly advisable for non-Japanese speaking foreign applicants unfamiliar with Japan’s strict business rules and regulations to enlist the help of local professionals such as:
- A translator who speaks fluent Japanese
- A certified Japanese immigration official who can provide guidance and assist with business/company registration requirements in Japan
- A business partner with a legal long-term residence permit in Japan acting as co-director
- A Japanese tax accountant who can handle company incorporation, tax, and compliance matters
Depending on the nature and financial standing of the business, documentary requirements for the Investor/Business Manager Visa may vary slightly from case to case. Some basic requirements may be waived in exceptional situations where the investment amount is much higher than ¥5 million.
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How to apply for the Japan Investor Visa
Applications for the Investor Visa must be made in person at a Japanese immigration office. As mentioned, foreign applicants are advised to consult local professionals who can assist in the application process.
- Register your business: Before applying for the Investor Visa, applicants must first establish a business in Japan by registering/incorporating their company as a legal entity with a minimum of ¥5 million in capital. In order to do so, you must also meet the requirements of having an office space and a co-director.
- Compile the required documents: Required documents include the applicant’s professional credentials (certificates, references, updated resume), a comprehensive business plan, documentary proof of ownership/lease of office space, bank statements, loan contracts, and proof of the business’s financial capability.
- Submit your application form and documents for a Certificate of Eligibility (CoE): This can be done through a legal representative in Japan.
- Obtain CoE approval: This usually takes three to six months.
- Use your COE to apply for the Japan Investor Visa: After obtaining a CoE from immigration services, applicants may apply for the Japan InvestorVisa in the Japanese Embassy or Consulate in their country. Visa approvals at this point are nearly 100% successful.
- Visa approval
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Final thoughts
Foreign investors who need time to prepare the groundwork for their business may apply for other short-term business visas similar to the Japan Investor Visa. These can be converted into the Investor Visa upon expiration.
The Startup Visa allows foreign entrepreneurs to stay in Japan from six months to two years without the need for physical office space and a large financial investment. This visa provides investors with access to municipal support and innovation resources such as partnerships, opportunities for mentorship and networking, and consultations.
Japan also recently announced its new Angel Investor Visa, a 5-year residency visa for angel investors and venture capitalists.
Due to Japan’s aging and shrinking population, foreign investors and workers are crucial to maintaining the country’s economic growth and vitality. Policies, procedures, and rules are constantly reviewed and adjusted to make it easier for foreigners to do business in Japan.
However, the Japanese government is also in talks about tightening application requirements for the Investor Visa. Noticeable changes are already underway in certain municipalities such as Tokyo, where the number of visa rejections has significantly increased.
Foreign entrepreneurs interested in applying for the Investor Visa should strike while the timing is right–before Japan implements restrictions and increases the investment cost.
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