Answers to common questions about working with MINATA: how to request work, pricing and payment, confidentiality, and how engagements run.
Frequently asked questions
What kind of work do you take on?
Production engineering and automation support, jig and small mechanism design, drawing creation and review, supplier research and trade document checks, Japanese–Vietnamese technical interpretation and translation, and practical Japanese training. We do not take on work that requires a professional licence (such as filing residence-status applications on someone's behalf).
Can individuals request work?
Yes. We mainly work with companies and sole proprietors, and also accept requests from individuals after reviewing the details.
Do you accept small or one-off requests?
Yes. One-off requests such as a single drawing or one meeting are welcome. No long-term contract is needed.
Can we communicate in Japanese?
Yes. The operator holds JLPT N1 and handles email, meetings and documents in Japanese.
How quickly do you reply?
Within about 1 business day (weekdays 9:00–18:00 JST). Messages outside these hours are welcome.
How is the price decided?
Reference prices are listed on the pricing page. The final amount is set in a quotation after we confirm the scope, volume and deadline. The first 30 minutes of a technical consultation are free.
How do we pay, and in which currency?
By bank transfer in Japanese yen from a bank in Japan to MINATA's account. Bank transfer fees etc. are borne by the client.
When is payment due?
The timing is set out in the quotation for each job. As a rule, the full amount is paid after you review a demo of the deliverables or after delivery.
Can you issue an invoice?
Yes. We issue MINATA's own invoice in a Japanese-style format.
Can we cancel partway?
Cancellation before work starts is free of charge. After work has started, the work completed up to that point will be invoiced.
Can we sign an NDA?
Yes, including on your own NDA template.
How are our drawings and documents handled?
They are stored in MINATA's dedicated cloud storage, accessible only to the operator, and used only for the requested work. After the job, they are deleted as you request or as the NDA specifies. If nothing is specified, they are kept for up to 1 year for revisions and then deleted.
How are meetings held?
Meetings are held online.
Can you come on site (e.g. to a factory)?
On-site work in Japan is discussed case by case depending on the project.
What does the process look like?
Inquiry → hearing → proposal and quotation → agreement and start → execution with progress updates → delivery and follow-up. Work starts only after you agree, so there are no charges beyond the agreed scope.