DJFT Checklist: Every Step From Japan to Renewal

Every step from preparation in Japan to your first renewal, in order. Your ticks are saved in this browser only, nowhere else.

In Japan, before you leave

Check your Japanese passport is valid for the whole application period.Requirements →
Get apostilles from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the documents the IND needs.How to apply →
Set aside at least €4,500 of your own money for the business. A loan doesn't count.The €4,500 rule →
Appoint a tax representative (納税管理人) if you'll still have Japanese income.Moving from Japan →
Decide whether to keep paying into the national pension voluntarily (任意加入).Pension →
Do the moving-out procedures at your city office.

The application

Choose a sole proprietorship (eenmanszaak) or a BV.Business structure →
Submit your application to the IND. No MVV entry visa needed.How to apply →
Pay the €423 fee.Costs →
Wait for the decision: within 90 days, sometimes extended.Timeline →

After you arrive, within 6 months of your decision letter

File your overseas residence registration (在留届) on ORRnet.在留届 →
Register with your municipality and get your citizen service number (BSN).
Register your business with the KVK (Chamber of Commerce).The 6-month window →
Open a business bank account and invest the €4,500.
Have an opening balance sheet prepared that shows the €4,500 as equity.Opening balance sheet →

Every year

Keep your bookkeeping up to date, and keep equity above €4,500.
Close the year with annual accounts and a balance sheet or income statement.
File a Japanese tax return through your tax representative if you still have Japanese income.Tax representative →

Renewal (your first permit lasts up to 2 years)

Apply for the extension before your permit expires, but not earlier than 3 months before.Extension →
Include your annual accounts and a balance sheet or income statement.What the IND checks →
If your family joined you, check their permits' renewal dates too.Partner & family →

This page provides general information only. It is not legal or tax advice. Rules change and individual circumstances vary. Always verify details with the IND or a qualified adviser before acting.

The DJFT checklist

In Japan, before you leave

The application

After you arrive, within 6 months of your decision letter

Every year

Renewal (your first permit lasts up to 2 years)

Ready to start your opening balance sheet?