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Introduction to Funds Transfer Business Licensing in Japan

Welcome to the gateway of Japan’s dynamic funds transfer market. We specialize in guiding international businesses through the complex journey of obtaining a funds transfer business license in Japan. With our in-depth expertise and commitment to compliance, we make the intricate process of navigating Japan’s regulatory landscape manageable and efficient. Whether you’re looking to establish international remittance services, smartphone payment platforms, or other innovative financial solutions, our dedicated team is here to ensure your smooth entry into one of the world’s most lucrative markets.

Licensing Requirements in Japan

Overview of Funds Transfer Business

A funds transfer business in Japan requires a license or permission when offering remittance services. This encompasses services like international remittances and smartphone payment services.


Legal Framework

As defined by the Supreme Court decision in 2001, a funds transfer business is “the permission required for entities, other than banks, to engage in foreign exchange transactions.” These transactions involve transferring funds between distant parties without physically transporting cash and accepting or executing such requests.


Types of Funds Transfer Businesses

  • TypeⅠ: No limit per transaction. Requires specific transfer instructions before accepting funds. Operates under a licensing system.
  • TypeⅡ: Limited to 1 million yen per transaction. Allows acceptance of funds without specific instructions but requires safeguarding measures.
  • TypeⅢ: Limited to 50,000 yen per transaction.


Regulatory Oversight

The Finance Bureau and Financial Branch Offices oversee businesses based on the location of their main offices.


Licensing Process: Personnel, Money, Services, Location

  • Personnel Requirements: Regulatory requirements stipulate the need for multiple responsible persons in each department, including a Compliance Officer. Emphasis on “Three Lines of Defense” in AML and terrorist financing.
  • Financial Criteria: No explicit capital criteria, but financial stability is required. Performance guarantee amount minimum is 10 million yen. Varies depending on the amount of outstanding debt.
  • Service Specifications: Detailed declarations of foreign exchange-related services required.
  • Changes post-registration require a report.
  • Location Requirements: Need for a personal information protection system. Typical offices with restricted access preferred.


Application Process

  • Preliminary Consultation: Involves briefing the regulatory authority and preparing preliminary documents.
  • Draft Review: Submission and revision of draft application documents.
  • Formal Examination: Finalized application documents submitted for examination.

Comprehensive Support for Registration Application

We provide a full spectrum of services to facilitate your entry into the Japanese funds transfer market. Our services include:

  • Consultation: In-depth discussions to understand your specific business needs and guide you through the registration process.
  • Document Preparation: Assistance in preparing all necessary documents for the application, ensuring compliance with Japanese regulations. Excluding certain documents that cannot be prepared by our company, such as a budget plan.
  • Organizational Structuring: Advising on the optimal organizational structure for your business to meet regulatory requirements.
  • Communication with Authorities: Handling all communications with the regulatory authorities on your behalf, including responding to queries and addressing corrections.
  • Application Submission: Submitting the application on your behalf and ensuring all procedural requirements are met.
  • Our services are primarily provided in Japanese. The authorities may sometimes wish to have direct discussions with your company’s person. To facilitate smooth administrative procedures with the authorities, we strongly recommend that your company appoints a representative who speaks Japanese.

Fee Structure

  • Service Fee: Our comprehensive service package is primarily offered at a fee ranging from 4 to 5 million JPY (excluding tax), depending on the complexity and specific needs of your business.
  • License Tax: Additionally, a registration license tax of 150,000 JPY is required.
  • Japan Funds Transfer Service Association Membership: If you choose to join the Japan Funds Transfer Service Association, a fixed membership fee of 200,000 JPY applies, with annual fees varying based on the previous fiscal year’s transaction volume.


Our goal is to provide you with a seamless and efficient experience, ensuring that your business is well-positioned to thrive in Japan’s funds transfer market.