In recent years, with the acceleration of globalization, more and more people hope to achieveimmigrantsDream. Although Japan has not established a clear "buy a house and immigrate" policy, foreign investors still have the opportunity to achieve long-term residence in Japan by purchasing real estate combined with specific visa applications. This article will analyze in detailBuy a house and immigrate to JapanIt introduces the relevant policies, the visa application process after purchasing a property, and provides a practical life guide to help potential investors complete the immigration process smoothly.
One,Buy a house and immigrate to JapanPolicy Overview
Although the Japanese government does not have a policy to grant residency directly through real estate investment, foreign investors can achieve their immigration goals by combining real estate investment with a business visa or other long-term residence visa. The following are some commonJapanese Immigration RequirementsWays:
- Investor/Business Manager Visa
- summarize: For foreigners who plan to invest or operate a business in Japan.
- request::
- You need to establish or acquire a business in Japan, and the investment amount is usually not less than 5 million yen (about 300,000 yuan).
- Prove that you are able to support yourself in Japan without relying on public welfare.
- Provide a detailed business plan that explains the feasibility and expected returns of the investment project.
- Highly Skilled Professional Visa
- summarize:Targeting foreign talents with high education, high skills or special talents.
- request::
- Evaluation is done through a points system, including education, work experience, income level, etc.
- Possess specialized skills or knowledge related to the development of the Japanese economy.
- Applicants do not need to invest directly in real estate, but owning a property can serve as proof of financial stability, indirectly increasing the chances of successful application.
- Startup Visa
- summarize:For foreigners who plan to start a business in Japan.
- request::
- Provide a detailed business plan and demonstrate its feasibility.
- A certain amount of start-up capital is usually required, and the amount depends on the specific city and project.
- Establishing the foundation of a business through real estate investment, such as setting up office space or retail stores.
2. Visa application process after purchasing a property
Although purchasing a property is not a direct way to obtain a visa, it can enhance the credibility of a visa application as part of asset proof and investment. The following is the basic process for applying for a visa after purchasing a property:
- Determine investment goals and budget
- Determine the investment amount and purchase area based on your own financial situation and immigration goals.
- Understand the real estate markets in different regions of Japan and choose areas suitable for long-term residence and investment appreciation.
- Choosing the right property
- type: Choose an apartment, house or commercial property based on your personal needs.
- point: The real estate markets in major cities such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto are relatively mature and have great potential for appreciation; and properties in some emerging cities or tourist hotspots also have relatively high rental returns.
- Go through the house purchase procedures
- Legal Consultation: Hire a professional real estate lawyer or agent to ensure that the home buying process is legal and compliant.
- Funding: Prepare the funds needed to buy a house, including a down payment, taxes, and other related fees.
- Signing a contract: Sign a purchase contract with the seller and complete relevant legal procedures.
- Apply for investment/business visa
- Prepared Materials: Including house purchase contract, investment plan, proof of source of funds, company registration documents (if applicable), etc.
- Submit an application:Submit all the documents to the Immigration Bureau of Japan.
- Waiting for approval: Visa approval usually takes several months, during which time additional documents or interviews may be required.
- Obtaining a visa and entering the country
- Once the visa is approved, enter Japan with the visa and start your business activities or residence plans.
- Visa renewal: According to the visa type and residence time, renew the visa on time to ensure legal residence.
3. Popular areas for foreign investors to buy property
Choosing the right area for buying a property is crucial for investment returns and residency experience. Here are a few popular areas for foreign investors:
- Tokyo
- dominance:As the capital of Japan, Tokyo is the center of economy, culture and education, with a stable real estate market and strong rental demand.
- Recommended areas: Minato Ward, Shinjuku Ward, and Shibuya Ward. The real estate in these areas has great potential for appreciation, and they have convenient transportation and complete living facilities.
- Osaka
- dominance:Osaka is the second largest city in Japan, with active business activities, rich tourism resources, and real estate prices that are more cost-effective than Tokyo.
- Recommended areas:Umeda District and Namba District are suitable for investing in commercial real estate or high-end apartments with high rental returns.
- Kyoto
- dominance:As a famous historical and cultural city in Japan, Kyoto attracts a large number of tourists, especially international tourists, and the short-term rental market has strong demand.
- Recommended areas:Higashiyama District and Fushimi District are suitable for investing in traditional townhouses or modern apartments, and can generate good returns for both short-term and long-term rentals.
- Fukuoka
- dominance:Fukuoka is the economic center of the Kyushu region and has a low cost of living, attracting an increasing number of foreigners and businesses in recent years.
- Recommended areas:Hakata District and Tenjin District are suitable for investing in residential and commercial properties, with huge market potential.
- Hokkaido
- dominance:Famous for its natural scenery and winter sports, especially the Niseko area, which attracts a large number of foreign investors and tourists.
- Recommended areas: Niseko Town and Sapporo city center are suitable for investing in resort properties with considerable rental income.
4. Guide to life after buying a property
Once you have obtained your visa and successfully moved to Japan, it is crucial to adjust to local life. Here are some practical guidelines:

- language learning
- Learning Japanese is the basis for integration into Japanese society, and you can improve your language skills through language schools, online courses or private tutors.
- Mastering basic daily expressions and business communication skills will help you better conduct business activities and social interactions.
- Learn about local culture
- Japan has a unique culture and etiquette, and respecting and understanding local customs will help you better integrate into the community and the workplace.
- Participate in local cultural events and festivals to enhance your understanding and recognition of Japanese culture.
- Build a social network
- Actively participate in business social activities and industry associations to expand personal connections and gain more business opportunities.
- Join a community event or interest group to make new friends and build a support network.
- Financial Management
- Understand Japan's tax system and financial regulations, plan your finances properly, and ensure a balance between investment income and living expenses.
- Seek help from a professional financial advisor or accountant to ensure compliance with tax filings and financial management.
- Living facilities
- Be familiar with the public transportation, medical institutions, educational resources and shopping facilities in your area to improve your quality of life.
- Arrange housing maintenance and property management to ensure the property is in good condition and has good rental returns.
V. Summary
By purchasing real estateImmigration to JapanAlthough there is no direct "buy a house and immigrate" policy, foreign investors still have the opportunity to achieve long-term residence in Japan in combination with a business investment visa or a highly skilled talent visa. Choosing the right area to buy a house, preparing sufficient visa application materials, and actively adapting to local life are all important factors for successful immigration. As Japan's policies on foreign investors are gradually optimized, 2024 is a good time to realize the dream of immigration through real estate investment. I hope this article can provide valuable reference for interested investors and help you achieve your immigration goals smoothly.
