Guide to Japanese Subsidies
for Foreign Residents
Japan offers thousands of non-repayable subsidies and grants for businesses. Many are available to foreign residents. Here's everything you need to know.
What are Japanese Subsidies?
Japan's national and local governments provide financial support to businesses through two main types of programs:
Hojokin (補助金) — Subsidies
Competitive grants primarily from METI (Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry). Requires application review and selection. Covers startup costs, equipment, IT, R&D, and more.
Joseikin (助成金) — Grants
Non-competitive grants primarily from MHLW (Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare). Generally approved if requirements are met. Often related to employment and training.
Both are non-repayable — unlike loans, you do not pay them back. Amounts range from tens of thousands to tens of millions of yen depending on the program.
Can Foreigners Apply?
Yes, in most cases. Japanese subsidies are generally based on business registration status, not nationality. If you have a registered business in Japan, you can apply for most programs.
Key Requirements
- ✓Valid business registration in Japan (KK, GK, sole proprietor, etc.)
- ✓Appropriate visa status (Business Manager visa, Permanent Resident, Spouse visa, etc.)
- ✓Business operates in the target region of the program
- ✓Tax compliance (up-to-date tax filings)
Note: Some local government programs may have additional residency requirements. Always check the specific eligibility criteria for each program.
Popular Subsidy Categories
Startup & Entrepreneurship
Funding for new businesses, incorporation costs, initial equipment
Equipment Investment
Machinery, tools, and facility upgrades for productivity improvement
IT & Digital Transformation
Software, cloud services, e-commerce, and digital tools adoption
Human Resources & Training
Employee training, skill development, and workforce programs
Sales & Market Expansion
Marketing, overseas expansion, new product development
Energy & Environment
Energy efficiency, renewable energy, environmental measures
How to Apply: Step by Step
Find a matching program
Use SubsidyDB to search by category, region, and eligibility. Filter for currently open programs.
Review the guidelines
Read the official application guidelines (公募要領, koubo youryou). These are in Japanese — use translation tools or consult an advisor.
Prepare documentation
Typical documents include a business plan, financial statements, tax certificates, and project budget. Requirements vary by program.
Submit your application
Most applications go through J-Grants (jGrants) — Japan's electronic subsidy application portal — or by postal mail.
Review and selection
For hojokin (subsidies), applications are reviewed competitively. For joseikin (grants), approval is based on meeting criteria.
Implement and report
After approval, implement your project, keep receipts, and submit a performance report (実績報告) to receive payment.
Tips for Non-Japanese Speakers
Work with a certified consultant
認定支援機関 (Nintei Shien Kikan) are government-certified business support organizations. Many accounting firms and banks have bilingual staff who can help with applications. Some programs even require working with a certified consultant.
Use administrative scriveners
行政書士 (Gyousei Shoshi) are licensed professionals who specialize in government paperwork. They can prepare and submit applications on your behalf. Some specialize in serving foreign clients.
Start with your local commerce chamber
Your local 商工会議所 (Shoko Kaigisho / Chamber of Commerce) offers free business consultation and can help you understand which programs you qualify for. Many also hold application seminars.
Ready to Find Your Subsidy?
Search thousands of Japanese government subsidies and grants. Filter by category, region, and eligibility.
About SubsidyDB
SubsidyDB is a free database of Japanese government subsidies and grants. We collect data from major ministries (METI, MHLW, MAFF, MLIT, MOE, and others) and the J-Grants digital platform, updating daily.
Our mission is to make Japan's support programs accessible to everyone, including the growing community of foreign residents and business owners. All features are completely free to use.