FAQ Archives - Page 39 of 93 - Ohara & Furukawa

February 1, 2017

Is it possible for a foreign national to start a side business in Japan?

Incorporating a company in Japan is relatively easy but it may be difficult under certain circumstances for some foreigners living in Japan to be a founding member of a corporation. The two main difficulties that foreign nationals will encounter when establishing a side business in Japan are restrictions in their employment contract at their main job and the restrictions of their Japanese visa.

January 30, 2017

Is an American trademark guaranteed protection in Japan?

While the US and Japanese trademark system share many similarities, they are separate systems, designed to be enforced and regulated separately. While having an American trademark may help in the application process for a Japanese trademark, it is not a guarantee that a Japanese trademark will be granted.

January 27, 2017

When does an heir inherit property during probate in Japan?

Normally, heirs to a deceased in Japan will not inherit any of the deceased’s estate until the probate process is completed. This ensures that the process is conducted correctly and each heir receives a fair distribution. However, it is possible to include language in a will that ensures an heir can immediately receive a particular asset without waiting for probate to finish.

January 25, 2017

What is the purpose of notarizing a document in Japan?

The notary system in Japan is similar to the system of notarizing documents in foreign countries. Notaries prepare notarial deeds, attest to a private deed and attest to legal documents. When two parties sign an agreement in front of a notary, the notary can provide official proof that the parties signed the document and understood what they were signing.