Starting and running a business in Japan comes with a structured set of legal and regulatory requirements. Staying compliant ensures smooth operations, avoids penalties, and builds trust with stakeholders.
At FujiCore Japan, we specialise in helping foreign and domestic businesses navigate Japan’s corporate compliance landscape. Here’s your essential checklist to stay on track.
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Annual Filings & Corporate Registrations
Japanese companies must file annual updates with the Legal Affairs Bureau and maintain accurate corporate records. Key requirements include:
✔ Annual Business Report (事業報告書) – Submitted to the Ministry of Justice
✔ Changes in Directors/Shareholders – Must be updated promptly
✔ Company Seal Registration (印鑑登録) – Required for official documents
Missed deadlines can result in fines or even company dissolution.
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Bookkeeping & Financial Reporting
Japan has strict accounting standards. Businesses must maintain:
✔ Proper Bookkeeping – Following Japanese GAAP or IFRS (if applicable)
✔ Annual Financial Statements – Prepared for submission to tax authorities
✔ Statutory Audits – Required for large companies (Kabushiki Kaisha)
Accurate records are crucial for tax filings and investor confidence.
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Taxation Deadlines & Filings
Japan has multiple tax obligations with strict deadlines:
✔ Corporate Income Tax (法人税) – Due 2 months after fiscal year-end
✔ Consumption Tax (消費税) – Filed annually or quarterly (for businesses over ¥10M revenue)
✔ Withholding Tax (源泉徴収税) – Monthly remittance for employee salaries
Late filings incur penalties (up to 20% additional tax).
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Board Meetings & Corporate Governance
Japanese companies must follow formal governance protocols:
✔ Board Meeting Minutes (取締役会議事録) – Legally required for key decisions
✔ Shareholder Meetings – At least once a year (with proper documentation)
✔ Compliance with the Companies Act (会社法) – Ensures legal validity of corporate actions
Failure to document meetings properly can invalidate business decisions.
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Employment & Social Insurance Compliance
Hiring employees in Japan requires adherence to labour laws:
✔ Employment Contracts – Must comply with the Labour Standards Act
✔ Social Insurance (健康保険 & 厚生年金) – Mandatory for full-time employees
✔ Workplace Regulations – Safety, harassment policies, and overtime rules
Non-compliance can lead to lawsuits or business suspension. It is important for businesses to stay informed and ensure they are in compliance with all labour laws.
Japan’s corporate compliance framework is detailed but manageable with the right partner. By staying proactive and ensuring all legal requirements are met, your business can operate smoothly and avoid unnecessary risks.
Need expert guidance? FujiCore Japan is here to help.
