Job Discussion Forums

Big Worm · Joined: 02 Jan 2011 Posts: 171

Hi,

I've been teaching for 8 years now (Korea, China). While I like teaching, I'm not as challenged by it as I used to be. As a result, the next country I move to, I'd like to be able to start a business. This would have to be all legal. What countries would it be legal for a foreigner on a work visa to do this. The only place I've heard of is Vietnam. Is this even true? Thanks.

Glenski · Joined: 15 Jan 2003 Posts: 12844 Location: Hokkaido, JAPAN

In Japan you can get a work visa to cover the bulk of your income, and do side work as it might fit in the description of that visa. Teachers in conversation schools get a Specialist in Humanities/International Relations work visa to teach, but this covers other areas as well. If you are in doubt, of course, ask immigration, but you can also request a Special Permission from them to do side work outside the realm of that work visa.

Want to start a business? Get a Business Manager/Investor visa instead. I don't now what other countries require.

PattyFlipper · Joined: 14 Nov 2007 Posts: 572

Cambodia probably has the most liberal foreign investor law in Asia, as well as some of the easiest immigration formalities. Much easier than Vietnam, in my opinion. Depending on the business structure chosen, you can own your business 100%, without the need for local shareholders, partners or agents. Unlike say Thailand, you are allowed to work in your own business in any capacity, and may even employ other foreigners, if you wish. You also own your visa yourself, so are not shackled to some exploitative or abusive employer or local sponsor. Additionally, there are few foreign currency exchange controls (certainly NOT the case in Vietnam) and the banking system is fairly user and foreigner friendly.

Obviously you would need to do your homework and approach any possible venture with the utmost caution; but there are many foreigners running SMEs here.