Updated List of NISA Eligible Investment Products in Japan

The Japanese Financial Services Agency has updated the list of eligible investment products under the NISA (Nippon Individual Savings Account) program. This change is crucial for foreign entrepreneurs and investors looking to navigate Japan’s investment landscape, as it provides new opportunities for tax-advantaged savings and investment strategies. Understanding these updates can significantly impact your financial planning and investment decisions in Japan.

Background & Context

The NISA program, established in 2014, allows individuals to invest in a range of financial products without incurring capital gains tax on profits up to a certain limit. The program was designed to encourage long-term investment among Japanese residents. The Financial Services Agency (FSA) (金融庁, Kin’yū-chō) is responsible for overseeing this program and ensuring that the eligible products meet specific criteria. The recent update, published on April 30, 2026, includes a revised list of eligible investment products, which is essential for both domestic and foreign investors. The NISA program has undergone several changes since its inception, including the introduction of the ‘Tsumitate NISA’ (積立NISA) in 2018, which focuses on regular, smaller investments rather than lump-sum investments. This update reflects the ongoing efforts by the FSA to enhance the investment environment in Japan and make it more accessible to foreign investors.

How This Affects Your Business in Japan

Item	Cost (JPY)	Cost (USD approx)	Notes
Company registration	¥150,000 to ¥300,000	$1,000 to $2,000	Varies by company type
Notary fee	¥50,000	$350	For document notarization
Visa application	¥4,000	$30	Standard application fee

1. Foreign Residents Already Operating a Business in Japan
If you are already investing through the NISA program, it is crucial to review the updated list of eligible products to ensure your investments align with the current offerings. You may need to adjust your portfolio to maximize tax benefits. Typically, you can access this information through the FSA’s website, and it is advisable to consult with a financial advisor familiar with the Japanese market. Failure to adapt could result in missed investment opportunities or tax inefficiencies.

2. Foreign Nationals Planning to Establish a New Company
For those looking to start a business in Japan, understanding the NISA program can be beneficial for personal financial planning. If you plan to invest in your business or other ventures, consider utilizing the NISA scheme to take advantage of tax-free growth on your investments. You will need to open a NISA account through a financial institution, which typically requires identification and proof of residency. Not taking advantage of this program could lead to higher tax liabilities on your investment gains.

3. Foreign Investors Who Are NOT Residents of Japan
While non-residents cannot directly participate in the NISA program, understanding its implications can help you strategize your investments in Japan. If you plan to invest in Japanese companies or funds, consider how the NISA program influences the market and the types of products that may be available to you. Engaging with a local financial advisor can provide insights into how to navigate these regulations effectively. Ignoring these updates could result in missed opportunities in a rapidly evolving investment landscape.

Step-by-Step: What You Need to Do

Step 1: Review the updated list of eligible NISA products
Visit the FSA website for the latest information. English support is available on some financial institution websites.
Office: FSA (English Support: Limited)
Cost: Free (¥0)
Time: 1 hour
Pitfall: Not checking the latest updates

Step 2: Open a NISA account
Choose a financial institution that offers NISA accounts. You will need identification and proof of residency.
Office: Financial Institution (English Support: Yes)
Cost: Free (¥0), but some institutions may charge fees
Time: 1-2 weeks
Pitfall: Missing required documents

Step 3: Select your investment products
Based on the updated list, choose the products that align with your investment strategy. Consult with a financial advisor if needed.
Office: Financial Institution (English Support: Yes)
Cost: Varies by advisor
Time: 1-2 weeks
Pitfall: Not aligning with strategy

Step 4: Make your investments
Execute your investment strategy through your NISA account. Ensure you adhere to the annual investment limits.
Office: Financial Institution (English Support: Yes)
Cost: Transaction fees may apply
Time: Ongoing
Pitfall: Exceeding investment limits

Step 5: Monitor your investments
Regularly check the performance of your investments and stay updated on any further changes to the NISA program.
Office: Financial Institution (English Support: Yes)
Cost: Free (¥0)
Time: Ongoing
Pitfall: Not monitoring changes

Key Contacts
www.jetro.go.jp/en/
www.moj.go.jp/isa/
www.fsa.go.jp/en/

Expert Analysis: Japan vs. Regional Competitors

Metric	Japan	Singapore	Hong Kong	South Korea
Incorporation time	14 days	3 days	5 days	10 days
Minimum capital requirement	¥0	S$1	HK$1	₩1
Annual filing cost	¥60,000	S$300	HK$2,000	₩50,000
Corporate tax rate	23.2%	17%	16.5%	22%

What to Expect Next

As Japan continues to refine its investment landscape, further updates to the NISA program may be on the horizon, particularly as the government seeks to attract more foreign investment. Watch for potential legislative changes in 2027 that could expand the range of eligible products or increase investment limits. Staying informed about these developments will be crucial for foreign entrepreneurs and investors looking to maximize their opportunities in Japan.

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Sources & References

This article is based on the following source and enhanced with professional analysis for foreign business owners.
Source: その他,つみたて投資枠対象商品届出一覧及びつみたて投資枠対象商品の概要を更新しました。

⚠️ This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult a qualified Japanese attorney (bengoshi) or judicial scrivener (shiho shoshi) for advice specific to your situation.