Secure a Long-Term Visa in Japan Successfully

Securing a long-term visa in Japan is crucial for business, investment, or work. Learn about visa options, requirements, and how to avoid common mistakes.

Types of Long-Term Visas in Japan

Japan offers several long-term visa options for business owners, investors, and skilled professionals, each with specific requirements and restrictions depending on your role and intentions in the country.

Highly Skilled Professional Visa

The Highly Skilled Professional (HSP) Visa is for top-tier experts in fields like business, technology, and academia. It uses a point-based system, evaluating applicants on education, work experience, and salary.

• Highly Skilled Professional (i) (a)/(b)/(c) – For those recognized as highly skilled under Japan’s criteria.
• Special Highly Skilled Professional – For professionals with strong qualifications, experience, and high income.
• Highly Skilled Foreign Professional – Covers dependents of HSP visa holders.

The visa offers fast-track permanent residency, priority processing, and better work and residency benefits than regular work visas.

Business Visas

Japan offers specific visas for entrepreneurs and investors looking to start or manage a business in the country.

Business Manager Visa – For company founders, entrepreneurs, and investors who establish or run a business in Japan. Requires proof of investment, office space, and a solid business plan. 

Start-Up Visa – A temporary 2-year visa for entrepreneurs supported by designated Japanese municipalities, allowing time to establish a business before transitioning to a Business Manager Visa. 

Relatives / Resident visa

These visas allow family members of Japanese citizens or long-term residents to live and work in Japan without the restrictions of a work visa.

• Spouse or Child of a Japanese National – For spouses and biological children of Japanese citizens, offering full work rights and a path to permanent residency.
• Spouse of Permanent Resident – For spouses of foreign nationals who hold permanent residency in Japan, allowing unrestricted employment.

Long-Term Resident – For individuals of Japanese ancestry or those granted special permission by Japanese immigration authorities due to exceptional circumstances.

Who is Eligible for a Long-Term Visa?

To qualify for a long-term visa in Japan, different criteria apply depending on the visa type. Business Manager Visa applicants typically invest ¥5 million and secure a physical office in Japan. 

The Highly Skilled Professional Visa is based on a point system, requiring at least 70 points through education, work experience, and salary. 

For a Relatives or Resident Visa, eligibility includes being married to a Japanese citizen or permanent resident or having Japanese ancestry, along with demonstrating financial stability.

How to Apply for Different Kinds of Long-Term Visas

Applying for a long-term visa in Japan involves several steps, from gathering the necessary documents to obtaining approval from immigration authorities. The process varies depending on the visa type, but the general structure remains the same.

How to Apply for a Business Manager Visa 

To secure a Business Manager Visa, you need to prove your business legitimacy, financial stability, and operational setup, including showing ¥5 million in investment—even without a Japanese business bank account. These are the requirements: 

A Solid Business Plan

• Clearly outline business goals, financial projections, and operations.
• Immigration requires a realistic and sustainable plan.

Proof of Investment – ¥5 Million in Company Funds

Japan requires ¥5 million for a Business Manager Visa to prove your business is real, financially stable, and beneficial to the economy. This ensures you have enough funds to run operations and sustain the business. Without it, immigration may doubt your company’s legitimacy.

Since opening a Japanese business account without a visa is difficult, alternatives include:

1. Personal Japanese Bank Account – If eligible, deposit ¥5 million and provide a bank statement.
2. Foreign Bank Account – A statement proving ¥5 million is available for transfer.
3. Legal Representative’s Account – A Japanese business partner or lawyer holds the funds temporarily.
4. Business Incorporation Before Visa Approval – Registering the company first through a legal representative.

An Office Lease

A physical office is required for a Business Manager Visa—virtual offices, shared spaces, and co-working offices don’t count. The office must be separate from others, have its own space and lock, and the lease must be in your company’s name.

Company Registration Documents

For a Business Manager Visa, your company must be legally registered with the Legal Affairs Bureau to prove it’s a real business.

• Corporate Registration Certificate – Proof that your company is officially established.
• Tax Registration – Confirms your business is registered for taxes.
• Company Seal Registration (Inkan 印鑑)* – Your official corporate seal must be registered.

*An Inkan (印鑑) is a registered stamp or seal used in Japan as an official signature for business and legal documents. It is required for contracts, banking, and government paperwork and is legally binding, unlike a handwritten signature.

Having these documents ready makes your visa application process smoother and faster.

Step-by-Step Application Process

1.Set up your company – Register a Kabushiki Kaisha (KK) or Godo Kaisha (GK) with the Legal Affairs Bureau.

2.Secure an office – Find and sign a lease for a real office space. If you need assistance finding an office, Bridgehead Japan offers office rental services for foreign entrepreneurs.

3.Deposit capital – Transfer at least ¥5 million into your Japanese business account (or an alternative mentioned before).

4.Submit your application – Provide all documents to the Immigration Bureau for review.

5.Wait for approval – Processing usually takes 1 to 3 months.

6.Receive your visa – Initially granted for 1 year, with the possibility of renewal for 3 or 5 years based on business performance.

Processing Time & Costs

Processing Time: Usually 1 to 3 months.

Setting up a business in Japan costs ¥500,000 to ¥1,000,000, covering registration, administrative fees, and legal assistance. Office rent is not included, as costs vary by location, with major cities like Tokyo or Osaka requiring higher deposits and fees.

For more detailed information, including expert insights on documentation, company setup, and visa renewal, check out How to Get a Business Manager Visa in Japan.

How to Apply for a Highly Skilled Professional Visa

To qualify, you need at least 70 points based on education, experience, and income.

Required Documents

• Point Calculation Sheet – You need at least 70 points based on Japan’s criteria.
• Job Offer or Business Plan – Either a contract from a company or proof that you’re starting a business.
• Education & Work History – University degrees, certificates, and proof of previous jobs.
• Financial Proof – Salary statements or bank records showing stable income.
• Identification – Passport, visa application form, and a recent photo.

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Check Your Points – Make sure you reach at least 70 points under Japan’s system.
2. Secure a Job or Start a Business – You’ll need an employment contract or proof of your own company.
3. Gather Your Documents – Collect everything, including work history, salary details, and proof of qualifications.
4. Submit Your Application – Apply through the Immigration Bureau in Japan.
5. Wait for Approval – Processing usually takes 1 to 2 months.
6. Get Your Visa – If approved, you’ll receive a 5-year visa with a fast-track option for permanent residency.

Processing Time & Costs

• Processing Time: 1 to 2 months
• Estimated Costs: Around ¥300,000 to ¥700,000, including document translations and any legal help.

How to Apply for a Relatives / Resident Visa

Unlike work visas, this visa provides more flexibility, including the ability to work without employer sponsorship.

Required Documents

• ​​Proof of Relationship – Marriage certificate, birth certificate, or other legal documents.
• Sponsor’s Documents – Residence card, passport, and proof of income from the Japanese spouse or permanent resident.
• Financial Proof – Bank statements or tax documents showing the ability to support living expenses.
• Application Form & ID Photos – Standard visa application form, passport, and recent photos.

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Prepare Documents – Collect relationship proof, financial records, and sponsor’s documents.
2. Submit the Application – Apply at the nearest Japanese embassy or immigration office (出入国在留管理庁).
3. Wait for Approval – Processing usually takes 1 to 3 months.
4. Receive Your Visa – If approved, you’ll receive a renewable 1 to 5-year visa based on your situation.

Processing Time & Costs

• Processing Time: 1 to 3 months
• Estimated Costs: Varies depending on embassy fees, document translations, and legal assistance if needed.

This visa is ideal for spouses or those with Japanese ancestry looking to live and work in Japan long-term.

Common Reasons for Visa Rejection & How to Avoid Them

Applying for a long-term visa in Japan requires careful preparation, and even small mistakes can lead to rejection. Understanding the most common reasons for visa denials can help you avoid unnecessary delays and improve your chances of approval. The most common mistakes are as follows:

Insufficient Documentation

Missing or incomplete paperwork is one of the most common reasons for rejection. Immigration officials need clear, well-organized documents to assess your application. How to Avoid It:

• Double-check the required documents list before submission.
• Ensure all forms are filled out correctly and completely.
• Provide certified translations for non-Japanese documents.

Lack of Financial Proof

Immigration authorities want to ensure that you can support yourself in Japan, whether through business capital, employment, or sponsorship. How to Avoid It:

• For a Business Manager Visa, show a bank statement confirming at least ¥5 million in investment.
• For a Highly Skilled Professional Visa, include income tax records or salary slips.
• For dependent or resident visas, provide proof that the sponsor has a stable income.

Issues with the Guarantor or Sponsor

Many visas require a sponsor, such as an employer, spouse, or business entity, who must meet specific financial and legal criteria. If the sponsor is unreliable, lacks financial stability, or provides incorrect paperwork, the visa may be rejected. How to Avoid It:

• Ensure your sponsor has a stable income and clear tax records.
• Double-check that their supporting documents (residence card, income proof, etc.) are accurate and up-to-date.
• If applying for a Business Manager Visa, confirm that your company is properly registered and financially viable.

Tips for a Successful Application

Work with a professional – Immigration consultants or lawyers can help ensure all requirements are met. Submit a strong business plan – If applying for a Business Manager Visa, provide clear details on your company’s operations, market strategy, and financial projections.

Be transparent and organized – Provide all necessary documents upfront to avoid unnecessary back-and-forth with immigration authorities.

Apply early – Visa processing can take 1 to 3 months, so plan accordingly to avoid last-minute issues.

Work Restrictions for Different Long-Term Visas

While long-term visas allow extended residency in Japan, each comes with specific work and business restrictions. Understanding these limitations is essential, especially for entrepreneurs and professionals planning to start or manage a business. Below are the key work restrictions for each visa type.

Business Manager Visa

• Requires active business management—passive ownership without involvement is not allowed.
• Renewal depends on business performance, financial stability, and tax compliance.
• Must have a physical office (virtual offices are not accepted).

Highly Skilled Professional Visa

• Cannot fully own and operate a business as a primary activity unless transitioning to a Business Manager Visa.
• Must maintain employment or contractual work to meet visa requirements.
• Points-based systems require maintaining income and professional status for renewal.

Relatives / Resident Visa

• No restrictions on employment, but business activities must comply with Japanese commercial laws.
• Eligibility is based on marriage, ancestry, or special residency permission, rather than professional qualifications.
• Business ownership is possible but requires following standard corporate regulations and tax obligations.

Bringing Family Members to Japan

If you have a long-term visa, you can sponsor your spouse and children to live with you in Japan. However, there are specific requirements and limitations:

Dependent Visa Requirements

• For spouses and children of long-term visa holders.
• Requires financial proof to show you can support them.
• Dependents can’t work full-time but may apply for part-time work (up to 28 hours per week).

How to Sponsor a Spouse or Children

1. Prepare Documents – Marriage/birth certificates, proof of income, tax records, and a letter of guarantee.
2. Submit Application – Apply at the Immigration Bureau in Japan or a Japanese embassy abroad.
3. Processing Time – Usually 1 to 3 months.

Visa Extension & Renewal

• Valid for 1 to 5 years, with renewal based on financial stability and updated residency documents.
• If the sponsor changes jobs or visa status, dependent visas may also need updating.

Proper planning ensures a smooth process for bringing and keeping your family in Japan.

Healthcare, Social Security, and Other Benefits

Living in Japan comes with great healthcare and social security benefits, ensuring long-term visa holders have access to medical care and financial support for retirement.

Health Insurance in Japan

All residents, including visa holders, must have health insurance. There are two options:

• Employee Health Insurance (Shakai Hoken) – Provided by your employer if you work full-time.
• National Health Insurance (Kokumin Kenko Hoken) – For business owners, freelancers, and self-employed individuals.

The system covers 70% of medical costs, so you only pay 30% out of pocket.

Pension & Social Security

If you stay in Japan long-term, you’ll contribute to the pension system, which will help you later in life. Two main pension plans:

• Employees’ Pension (Kosei Nenkin) – If you work for a company.
• National Pension (Kokumin Nenkin) – If you’re self-employed or a business owner.

Contributions make you eligible for retirement benefits and even a lump-sum withdrawal if you leave Japan. Being enrolled in these systems gives you peace of mind, knowing you’re covered for healthcare and future financial security.

How to Extend or Renew a Long-Term Visa

If you plan to stay in Japan beyond your visa’s expiration, you’ll need to apply for a renewal before it expires. The process is straightforward, but submitting the right documents on time is crucial to avoid any legal issues. For more details, read this article on Japan Visa Extension – How to Extend a Japanese Visa?

Application Process for Renewal

1. Apply Early – You can start the renewal process three months before your visa expires.
2. Submit Your Application – Apply at your local Immigration Bureau in Japan.
3. Receive Your Approval – If accepted, your visa will be extended for 1, 3, or 5 years depending on your visa type and eligibility.

Documents Needed & When to Apply

• Application Form – Available at the Immigration Bureau or online.
• Passport & Residence Card – Proof of current legal stay.
• Proof of Income – Tax returns, salary slips, or business financial records.
• Employer or Business Documents – Work contract (for employees) or business registration documents (for entrepreneurs).
• Other Supporting Documents – Depending on visa type (e.g., family records for spouse visas).

Processing typically takes 2 to 4 weeks, so applying early ensures a smooth renewal without disruptions to your stay.

Consequences of Overstaying a Long-Term Visa

Overstaying your visa in Japan can lead to serious legal penalties, deportation, and long-term bans on re-entry. Immigration authorities strictly enforce visa regulations, and even unintentional overstays can result in severe consequences.

Penalties and Restrictions for Overstays

• Fines and Imprisonment – Overstaying can result in fines of up to ¥3 million or imprisonment for up to three years, with or without hard labor.
• Deportation and Re-entry Bans – Depending on the length of the overstay, deportation may come with a ban on re-entering Japan for one to ten years.
• Detention at an Immigration Facility – In some cases, overstayers may be held at immigration detention centers before being deported.
• Loss of Legal Rights – Overstayers lose access to health insurance, employment, and other residency benefits.
• Negative Impact on Future Visa Applications – A history of overstaying can make it much harder to obtain a Japanese visa in the future.

Japan has strict immigration laws, and overstaying—even for a short period—can lead to long-term consequences. It’s crucial to comply with visa regulations to avoid legal trouble.

Conclusion

Securing a long-term visa in Japan takes careful planning, whether you’re an entrepreneur, investor, skilled professional, or family member. Choosing the right visa, preparing the required documents, and following immigration rules are key to a smooth process. These are the key takeaways we must not forget about:

• Business owners need a Business Manager Visa with proof of investment and office space.
• Highly skilled professionals can fast-track permanent residency through the HSP Visa.
• Family members require sponsorship and financial proof for a Relatives or Dependent Visa.
• Visa renewals should be done early to avoid legal issues.
• Overstaying leads to fines, deportation, and entry bans.

With the right preparation, Japan offers great opportunities for business, work, and family life.

Need help with your visa in Japan? SmartStart Japan and Scaling Your Company have you covered. Whether it’s a business manager visa or long-term residency, we’ll guide you through the process and make it as smooth as possible. Let us handle the paperwork so you can focus on building your business!