Japan: A New Hotspot for Global Elite Investment and Migration

  • Sig Tax & AccountingFeb 26, 2025

In recent years, Japan has attracted global elites with its superior welfare system, developed economy, outstanding educational resources, and stable investment environment. Whether pursuing a higher quality of life or seeking new investment opportunities, Japan has become a popular destination for many middle-class families and high-net-worth individuals. This article provides an in-depth analysis of Japan’s appeal, investment advantages, and migration pathways to help you find an ideal development space in this opportunity-rich country.

 

Why Choose Japan?

  1. Generous Welfare Benefits

The Japanese government offers a comprehensive social security system, including childcare subsidies, single-parent allowances, and an insurance system covering over 70% of medical expenses. Additionally, pension plans, nursing care subsidies, and the “safety confirmation system” ensure a secure retirement for the elderly.

  1. World-Class Education System

Japan’s education system is highly regarded worldwide, with several universities ranking among the top 100 globally. From kindergarten to high school, Japan offers free education and well-equipped teaching facilities, creating an excellent learning environment for children.

  1. Developed Economy with Vast Opportunities

As the world’s fourth-largest economy, Japan boasts a thriving job market with competitive salaries, providing ample career development opportunities for talent.

  1. Strong Industrial Advantages

Japan follows a “technology-driven nation” strategy, housing many internationally renowned brands. It leads the world in technology, manufacturing, and cultural and creative industries.

  1. Rich Cultural Heritage and Vibrant Lifestyle

Japan’s music, films, and anime industries enjoy global recognition while preserving traditional cultural practices such as tea ceremonies, ikebana (flower arranging), and calligraphy, offering residents a unique living experience.

  1. Comfortable and Livable Environment

Japan enforces strict environmental regulations, ensuring clean and pleasant urban and rural settings with a high standard of living.

 

 

Japan’s Job Market:

Low Unemployment, High Employment Opportunities

Japan’s labor demand is strong, with an unemployment rate second only to Switzerland and Singapore, consistently maintaining low levels. The employment rate for university graduates exceeds 90%. According to 2023 data from Tokyo’s Bunkyo Ward, fresh graduates typically receive multiple job offers.

To attract top talent, Japanese companies are making significant investments: Sony allocated $1.2 billion to retain employees, Microsoft acquired a major gaming company for $68.7 billion, and Nintendo announced a 100-billion-yen recruitment expansion over the next five years. For highly skilled professionals, Japan’s job market offers promising prospects.

 

 

Real Estate Investment in Japan:

Opportunities and Advantages

  1. High Returns and a Stable Market

Japan’s mature and stable real estate market offers attractive investment returns compared to high-risk markets prone to property bubbles.

  1. High-Quality Properties with Good Value

Japanese properties are generally well-furnished, built to the latest construction standards, and fully equipped with modern amenities, offering reasonable investment costs.

  1. Permanent Land Ownership

Unlike some countries, Japan provides permanent land ownership, making property investment highly valuable.

  1. Flexible Financing Options

Even with a tourist visa, foreign investors can purchase property in Japan and secure financing from local banks, thanks to investor-friendly mortgage policies.

  1. Yen Depreciation Creates Investment Opportunities

Fluctuations in the yen’s exchange rate have attracted substantial foreign capital inflows. Investors can enter the market before the yen appreciates.

  1. Property Investment Supports Children’s Education

Purchasing property can provide accommodation for studying abroad while generating rental income or resale profit. Parents acquiring residency can also facilitate their children’s enrollment in top global universities.

  1. Business Management Visa via Real Estate Investment

Setting up a business and purchasing property for rental operations is a cost-effective route to obtaining Japan’s Business Management Visa.

  1. Diversified Investment Reduces Risk

Japan’s stable investment environment allows overseas investors to mitigate risks associated with concentrating assets in a single market.

 

Two Main Visa Pathways for Moving to Japan

For middle-class families and high-net-worth individuals, Japan offers relatively low migration costs compared to other G7 countries. The Japanese government has recently eased immigration policies, providing multiple visa options. Here are the two most common pathways:

  1. Highly Skilled Professional Visa – Fast Track to Permanent Residency

Eligibility Requirements:

    • Minimum of three years of management experience with a Highly Skilled Professional score of 70 or above.
    • Establish a company in Japan with a registered capital of 5 million yen and an annual turnover of at least 4 million yen, or be assigned as an executive through an intra-company transfer.
    • Annual salary in Japan of at least 3 million yen.
    • A physical office space in Japan.
    • No criminal record in Japan.

Application Process:

    1. Score evaluation: Points are assigned based on education, work experience, age, income, and Japanese proficiency. A score of 70 qualifies for application, while 80 or above accelerates permanent residency eligibility.
    2. Prepare application documents: Academic credentials, work certificates, income proof, and Japanese language proficiency certificates.
    3. Gather documents from home country: Criminal record certificate, personal identification information, etc.
    4. Engage a Japanese representative: Administrative scriveners or professional agents assist with the application.
    5. Register a company in Japan (if applying via the Business Management Visa route).
    6. Submit the application, with an estimated processing time of approximately 72.4 days.
    7. Upon visa approval, collect the residence card and comply with reporting requirements for job changes.

 

  1. Business Management Visa – Ideal for Entrepreneurs

Eligibility Requirements:

    • Must be at least 20 years old.
    • Establish a company in Japan and meet regulatory requirements.
    • No criminal record.

Application Process:

    1. Develop a business plan ensuring project sustainability.
    2. Secure an office location, as personal and business addresses must be separate.
    3. Register as a legal entity and complete company setup procedures.
    4. Obtain business licenses (if operating in a regulated industry).
    5. Prepare application materials, including a business plan and company registration documents.
    6. Submit the application to the Immigration Bureau and await approval.
    7. Upon visa approval, complete necessary procedures and officially start the business venture.

 

 

Conclusion

Japan’s comprehensive welfare system, outstanding education resources, robust economy, and diverse industries make it an attractive destination for global elites seeking investment and migration opportunities. Whether for employment, investment, or permanent residency, Japan provides vast growth potential for newcomers.

If you are considering migrating to Japan or investing overseas, feel free to contact us. We offer comprehensive, one-stop services to help you seamlessly transition into your new life and business journey in Japan.