GTN Launches Startup Visa Support Services in Sendai City for Foreign Entrepreneurs

Global Trust Networks (GTN), a Tokyo-based company specializing in support for foreign residents, has been awarded a contract to oversee startup visa consultation in Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture. This initiative aims to address the various challenges faced by foreign entrepreneurs, such as language barriers, cultural differences, and complex regulatory environments, thereby contributing to the development of a global startup ecosystem that connects Sendai, Tohoku, and the world.

Supporting Foreign Entrepreneurs in Japan

In recent years, attracting and retaining foreign entrepreneurs has become a focal point for Japan’s economic growth. The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) has introduced a program that allows foreign entrepreneurs to stay in Japan for up to two years before obtaining the “Management/Business” visa, fostering a more supportive environment for business innovation.

In this context, Sendai City is actively working towards building a global startup ecosystem that seamlessly connects local entrepreneurs with international markets. However, many aspiring foreign entrepreneurs face numerous challenges, including the complexities of residence visa regulations, securing housing, opening bank accounts, and negotiating lease agreements. The differences in language and culture further complicate their entrepreneurial journey. To alleviate these issues, Sendai City has established a specialized advisory service dedicated to startup visa assistance, selecting GTN to spearhead this project.

GTN's Expertise in Supporting Foreign Residents

For nearly two decades, GTN has focused exclusively on providing comprehensive support to foreign residents, offering essential services such as housing, communication, finance, and employment assistance. Since 2021, GTN has been involved in the “Shibuya Startup Support” project in Tokyo, which provides a streamlined support system for foreign entrepreneurs—from applying for startup visas to securing the “Management/Business” visa and assisting with post-launch stabilization.

To further enhance the support network in the Tohoku region, GTN has announced plans to open a new branch in Sendai City by July 2025. This new office will complement existing locations in Kanto, Kansai, Tokai, and Kyushu, paving the way for future improvements in the region's entrepreneurial landscape.

GTN’s Comprehensive Support Services

As part of its responsibilities, GTN will provide a holistic range of services. Some highlighted support offerings include:

1. Comprehensive Visa Support

GTN will assist foreign entrepreneurs throughout the visa application process, helping them transition from startup visas to obtaining the “Management/Business” visa, as well as providing ongoing support post-launch.

2. Practical Life and Business Setup Support

GTN will facilitate essential services for entrepreneurial and personal needs. This includes rent guarantees for both business and personal use, assistance in finding office and living accommodations, securing mobile phone contracts, and opening bank accounts.

3. Connecting with Professionals

By collaborating with certified professionals such as administrative scriveners and lawyers who specialize in startup visas, GTN will foster quality advisory services to ensure that entrepreneurs have the necessary expertise at their disposal.

4. Multilingual and Online Support

GTN is committed to offering multilingual support and flexible online consultation options, ensuring that foreign entrepreneurs receive tailored, smooth assistance based on their individual situations.

5. Institutional Foundation Development

GTN will also create manuals for consultation processes and develop promotional materials for foreign entrepreneurs, which will enhance the quality and sustainability of the operational framework.

Through these comprehensive supports that focus on providing a gateway for challenges and establishing a solid foundation for living, GTN aims to foster an environment where foreign entrepreneurs feel positive about their decision to come to Japan and are excited about the opportunities to take on in this new market. This aligns perfectly with Sendai City's vision of creating a vibrant global startup ecosystem.

About Global Trust Networks (GTN)

Founded in July 2006, GTN is dedicated to the mission of making foreign residents feel that their decision to come to Japan was worthwhile. The company provides a wide range of specialized services including rent guarantees, housing brokerage, employment, telecommunications, and financial support. Approximately 70% of GTN's employees come from about 20 different countries, allowing the company to uniquely understand and address the diverse challenges faced by its clients.

Company Information:

- Company Name: Global Trust Networks, Inc.
- Address: 2F, Oak Ikebukuro Building, 1-21-11 Higashi-Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
- Established: July 2006
- President: Hiroyuki Goto
- Business Focus: Specialized rental guarantee, leasing brokerage, telecommunications, financial services, registration support, and human resources placement.
- Website: https://www.gtn.co.jp/