Key Takeaways
- The Business Manager Visa (経営・管理ビザ / Keiei-Kanri Visa) allows foreign entrepreneurs to live in Japan while starting or managing a business. As of October 16, 2025, Japan significantly tightened the requirements for this visa. New applicants must now meet all of the following:
- Capital requirement: ¥30 million minimum (increased from ¥5 million)
- Employee requirement: At least one full-time employee (Japanese national, special permanent resident, or holder of a Table 2 residence status such as permanent resident, spouse of Japanese national, or long-term resident)
- Japanese language requirement: Either the applicant or an employee must demonstrate JLPT N2 level (B2) proficiency or equivalent
- Experience or education requirement: Three or more years of management experience, or a master’s degree or higher in a relevant field
- Business plan verification: A certified professional (公認会計士 / CPA, 税理士 / tax accountant, or 中小企業診断士 / SME management consultant) must verify your business plan
- Physical office: A dedicated commercial office space is required; home offices are no longer permitted in most cases
Japanese immigration law underwent its most significant reform in over a decade when the October 2025 amendments to the Business Manager Visa took effect. These changes were designed to attract serious, well-capitalized entrepreneurs while deterring visa misuse through paper companies. For foreign business owners considering Japan, understanding the new requirements is essential. This guide provides detailed information on the Business Manager Visa application process, eligibility criteria, required documents, and practical strategies for meeting the heightened standards that now apply.
Who Is The Business Manager Visa for? (経営・管理 Keiei-Kanri Visa)
The Business Manager Visa is Japan’s primary residence status for foreign nationals who intend to start, acquire, or manage a business in Japan. This visa allows entrepreneurs to reside in Japan while overseeing their business operations. It applies to company founders, executive managers, and branch office representatives of foreign companies.
Following the October 2025 reforms, Japan now expects Business Manager Visa applicants to bring substantial capital (¥30 million minimum), create local employment (at least one full-time employee), and demonstrate either management experience or relevant advanced education. The policy shift reflects Japan’s goal of attracting entrepreneurs who will contribute meaningfully to the economy rather than those seeking residence through minimal investment.
The visa is typically granted for one to five years and is renewable based on business performance and compliance with local regulations. After maintaining this status for several years with a stable business, holders may become eligible for permanent residency.
Why Do I Need a Business Manager Visa in Japan?
For entrepreneurs, the Business Manager Visa is more than just a legal requirement; it is a gateway to new opportunities. This visa enables business owners to establish a physical presence in Japan, which is critical for building trust with local partners, understanding the market dynamics, and directly managing business operations. Furthermore, it provides the legal standing necessary to access local resources, hire employees, and engage in contractual agreements. Ultimately, the Business Manager Visa is a pivotal step for any entrepreneur aiming to succeed in the Japanese market.
Understanding The Business Manager Visa
The Business Manager Visa is part of Japan’s framework for attracting foreign investment while ensuring that visa holders genuinely operate businesses in Japan. The October 2025 reforms represent a major policy shift. Previously, an applicant could qualify with either ¥5 million in capital or by employing two full-time workers. Under the new rules, applicants must meet multiple requirements simultaneously, including a sixfold increase in the capital threshold.
The visa is available to individuals who establish a new company in Japan, acquire or invest in an existing Japanese company, or manage a branch office of a foreign enterprise. The residence period granted ranges from three months to five years, depending on the stability and scale of the business. Initial grants are typically one year, with longer periods (three to five years) available after demonstrating sustained business performance.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for a Business Manager Visa under the October 2025 requirements, applicants must satisfy all of the following criteria:
1. Capital Requirement (¥30 Million)
The business must have paid-in capital (資本金 / shihonkin) of at least ¥30 million. For a Kabushiki Kaisha (KK) or Godo Kaisha (GK), this means the registered capital or total contributions must meet or exceed this threshold. For sole proprietors, immigration will assess the total amount invested in business operations, including office costs, equipment, inventory, and one year of employee salaries.
Verification note: Immigration verifies capital through company registration documents (登記事項証明書) and, for new companies, a balance sheet even if the first fiscal year has not closed.
2. Full-Time Employee Requirement
You must employ at least one full-time employee (常勤職員 / jokin shokuin). Eligible employees are limited to Japanese nationals, special permanent residents, or foreign nationals holding a Table 2 residence status (permanent resident, spouse of Japanese national, spouse of permanent resident, or long-term resident). Employees on work visas (Table 1 residence statuses such as Engineer/Specialist in Humanities or Skilled Worker) do not count toward this requirement.
Full-time means the employee works at least 30 hours per week, 217 days or more per year, is enrolled in employment insurance (雇用保険), and receives a salary commensurate with their duties. Part-time workers, contractors, dispatched workers, and seconded employees do not qualify.
3. Japanese Language Requirement
Either the applicant or at least one full-time employee must demonstrate Japanese language ability at the JLPT N2 level (equivalent to CEFR B2) or higher. Acceptable proof includes:
- JLPT N2 or higher certificate
- BJT Business Japanese Test score of 400 or higher
- Graduation from a Japanese university or vocational school (専門学校)
- Completion of Japanese compulsory education through high school
- Twenty or more years of residence in Japan as a mid-to-long-term resident
If your employee is a Japanese national or special permanent resident, the language requirement is automatically satisfied.
4. Experience or Education Requirement
The applicant must have either:
- Three or more years of experience in business management or operations (including time spent on a Startup Visa conducting business preparation activities), or
- A master’s degree (修士) or doctoral degree (博士) in business administration, management, or a field directly related to the proposed business
- You also need to be at least 21 years old to have a good chance of applying successfully.
*Submit employment certificates, tax payment records, or degree certificates (with official translations if not in Japanese or English) to document this requirement.
5. Physical Office Space
You must secure a dedicated commercial office in Japan. Since the October 2025 reforms, using your residence as your business address is no longer permitted except in exceptional circumstances. The office must be appropriate for the scale of your business operations, with sufficient space for employees and business activities.
Verification note: Immigration may conduct site visits. Virtual offices and mail-forwarding addresses do not qualify.
6. Business Plan Verification
Your business plan must be reviewed and verified by a certified professional. As of the October 2025 implementation, eligible verifiers include:
- 中小企業診断士 (Registered SME Management Consultant)
- 公認会計士 (Certified Public Accountant)
- 税理士 (Certified Tax Accountant)
The professional must confirm that your plan is specific, rational, and achievable. Immigration will request this verification document as part of your application.
*The verifier cannot be a company officer or employee of your business. External advisors (such as your company’s contracted tax accountant) are permitted.
| Requirement | Pre-October 2025 | Current (October 2025 onward) |
| Capital | ¥5 million OR 2+ employees | ¥30 million AND 1+ employee |
| Employees | Optional (alternative to capital) | Mandatory (1+ full-time) |
| Japanese language | Not required | Required (applicant or employee) |
| Management experience/education | Not required | Required (3+ years experience or relevant master’s) |
| Business plan verification | Not required | Mandatory (by certified professional) |
| Home office | Permitted in some cases | Not permitted |
Document Checklist
The following documents are required for a Business Manager Visa application under the current requirements. Immigration updated its application forms and document requirements effective October 16, 2025.
Application Documents
- Application form (在留資格認定証明書交付申請書 for COE, or 在留資格変更許可申請書 for change of status) using the October 2025 version
- Passport copy (identification page)
- Recent photograph (4cm × 3cm, taken within the past three months)
- Certificate of residence (住民票) if already residing in Japan
Company Documents
- Company registration certificate (登記事項証明書 / tohki jiko shomeisho) showing capital of ¥30 million or more
- Articles of incorporation (定款 / teikan)
- Balance sheet (貸借対照表) even if your first fiscal year has not closed
- List of shareholders or investors
- Office lease agreement or proof of ownership for commercial premises
- Photographs of the office (exterior, entrance, interior, nameplate)
Business Plan and Verification
- Comprehensive business plan including business model, market analysis, financial projections, and operational strategy
- Verification document from a certified professional (中小企業診断士, 公認会計士, or 税理士) confirming the plan’s specificity, rationality, and feasibility
Applicant Qualifications
- Resume (職務経歴書 / shokumu keirekisho) documenting management experience or relevant work history
- Proof of three or more years of management experience (employment certificates, tax records) OR
- Degree certificate for master’s or doctoral degree in a relevant field (with certified translation if necessary)
Employee Documentation
- Employment contract for at least one full-time employee
- Employee’s residence card copy (if foreign national with Table 2 status) or proof of Japanese nationality
- Proof of Japanese language ability for the employee or applicant (JLPT certificate, BJT score report, graduation certificate from Japanese institution, or other qualifying documentation)
Financial Documentation
- Bank statements (typically past six months) showing sufficient funds for capital and operations
- Source of funds explanation if the capital originates from overseas
- Business bank account passbook (if account already opened)
Tax and Social Insurance Compliance (for renewals)
- Proof of labor insurance enrollment and premium payments
- Proof of social insurance (health insurance and pension) enrollment and premium payments
- Tax payment certificates for corporate tax, consumption tax, inhabitant tax, and enterprise tax
*Document requirements may vary by Immigration Bureau. Category 3 and 4 companies (smaller businesses) face additional documentation requirements compared to larger enterprises.
How to Apply for Your Business Manager Visa in Japan
Securing a Business Manager Visa requires careful preparation given the stricter requirements that took effect in October 2025. The following steps outline the application process.
Step 1: Establish Your Business Foundation
Before applying, you must have the following in place:
- A registered company in Japan with ¥30 million or more in capital (or documented investment of equivalent value for sole proprietors)
- A signed lease for dedicated commercial office spaces > Note that we recommend this space to have a minimum monthly rent of ¥100,000
- At least one full-time employee hired (or a signed employment contract ready for submission)
If you are not yet able to meet these requirements, consider applying for the Startup Visa first, which provides up to two years to prepare your business before transitioning to the Business Manager Visa.
Step 2: Prepare Your Business Plan
Develop a comprehensive business plan that includes:
- Executive summary and business objectives
- Market analysis demonstrating demand in Japan
- Marketing and sales strategy
- Organizational structure and staffing plan
- Financial projections (revenue, expenses, profitability timeline)
- Explanation of how your business creates value in the Japanese market
Step 3: Obtain Professional Verification
Engage a certified professional (中小企業診断士, 公認会計士, or 税理士) to review your business plan. The professional will issue a verification document confirming that your plan is specific, rational, and achievable. This document is mandatory for new applications.
Verification note: Allow two to four weeks for this process. The professional may request revisions before issuing verification.
Step 4: Compile Your Documentation
Gather all required documents as outlined in the Document Checklist. Ensure translations are prepared for documents not in Japanese. Have your employee’s language certification and residence documentation ready.
Step 5: Submit the Application
For applicants outside Japan: Submit your application for a Certificate of Eligibility (在留資格認定証明書) to the regional Immigration Bureau in Japan. A proxy in Japan (such as your company’s representative, attorney, or administrative scrivener) can file on your behalf.
For applicants already in Japan on another visa status: Submit a change of status application (在留資格変更許可申請) directly to the Immigration Bureau.
Step 6: Attend Interview (if required)
Immigration may request an interview to verify your business knowledge and intentions. Be prepared to discuss your business plan, market strategy, financial situation, and your role in day-to-day operations.
Step 7: Receive COE and Apply for Visa
Upon approval, you will receive a Certificate of Eligibility. Take this certificate to the Japanese embassy or consulate in your home country to apply for the actual visa stamp in your passport.
Step 8: Enter Japan and Complete Registration
After entering Japan, register your residence at your local municipal office (市区町村役場) within 14 days. You will receive your residence card (在留カード) at the airport upon arrival (for most nationalities) or at the Immigration Bureau.
How Long does The Application Process Take?
Processing Times
- Certificate of Eligibility (COE): One to three months from submission
- Visa issuance at embassy/consulate: One to two weeks after receiving the COE
- Total timeline from submission to entry: four-twelve months
Verification note: Processing times vary by Immigration Bureau workload and application complexity. Applications requiring additional documentation or clarification may take longer.
Government Fees
- Visa application fee: ¥3,000 to ¥6,000 (varies by nationality and visa duration)
- Change of status application: ¥4,000
- Extension of stay application: ¥4,000
Note: Immigration fees increased in April 2025. Online applications may have slightly lower fees than counter submissions.
Professional and Administrative Costs
Beyond government fees, budget for the following:
- Business plan verification by certified professional: ¥50,000 to ¥200,000
- Administrative scrivener (行政書士) for application support: ¥100,000 to ¥300,000
- Legal consultation (if needed): Variable
- Office lease deposits and initial rent: Variable by location
- Company registration fees: Approximately ¥200,000 to ¥250,000 for a KK
Is There a Minimal Financial Requirement for the Business Manager Visa?
The financial requirements for the Business Manager Visa increased significantly with the October 2025 reforms. Here is what you need to know:
Capital Necessary
The minimum capital requirement is now ¥30 million (approximately USD 200,000 at current exchange rates). This represents a sixfold increase from the previous ¥5 million threshold.
For corporations (KK or GK), this means the registered paid-in capital (払込済資本金) must be ¥30 million or more at the time of application.
For sole proprietors, immigration assesses the total amount invested in business operations, including:
- Office lease costs and deposits
- Equipment and inventory
- One year of employee salaries
- Operating capital
Important: You cannot combine your corporate capital amount with operational expenses to reach the ¥30 million threshold. For corporations, the capital figure stands alone.
Operational and Living Expenses
Beyond the capital requirement, you should have additional funds to cover:
- Monthly operating costs (rent, utilities, salaries, marketing) for at least 12 months
- Your personal living expenses in Japan
- Contingency funds for unexpected business needs
Proof of Financial Capability
Immigration requires comprehensive documentation of your financial standing:
- Bank statements (past six months) showing consistent balances
- Source of funds explanation if capital originates from overseas transfers, investments, or loans
- Business bank account records
- Company balance sheet (even before the first fiscal year closes)
If your capital comes from outside Japan, be prepared to explain the source clearly. Immigration scrutinizes large transfers to ensure funds are legitimate and not borrowed temporarily just for the application.
Setting up a business in Japan involves several critical steps, including choosing the right business structure, registering your company, securing a physical office space, and complying with local regulations. This process requires careful planning and thorough preparation to ensure a smooth transition and successful establishment of your business.
For a detailed guide on each step of setting up your business in Japan, including important considerations and practical tips, please refer to this comprehensive article: How to Set Up a Company in Japan.
The Startup Visa: An Alternative Pathway
If you cannot immediately meet the ¥30 million capital requirement or other Business Manager Visa criteria, Japan’s Startup Visa (スタートアップビザ) offers a practical alternative.
What Is the Startup Visa?
The Startup Visa, formally known as the Foreign Entrepreneurial Activity Promotion Program (外国人起業活動促進事業), allows foreign entrepreneurs to reside in Japan for up to two years while preparing to launch a business. During this period, you can:
- Secure office space
- Develop your business plan
- Raise capital
- Hire employees
- Build relationships with customers and partners
The Startup Visa is issued under the Designated Activities (特定活動) residence status and is available nationwide as of January 2025.
Startup Visa vs. Business Manager Visa
| Aspect | Startup Visa | Business Manager Visa |
| Capital requirement | Lower threshold (varies by municipality) | ¥30 million minimum |
| Employee requirement | Not mandatory initially | 1+ full-time employee required |
| Duration | Up to 2 years (6-month periods, renewable) | 1 to 5 years |
| Purpose | Business preparation | Active business operation |
| Transition | Must convert to Business Manager Visa | N/A |
How the Startup Visa Works
- Choose a supporting municipality or organization: The program is administered through approved local governments and organizations. Tokyo, Osaka, Fukuoka, Aichi, Kyoto, Hokkaido, and many other regions participate.
- Submit your business plan: Apply to the supporting organization with your business plan, funding strategy, and timeline for meeting Business Manager Visa requirements.
- Receive certification: If approved, the organization issues a confirmation certificate (確認証明書).
- Apply for residence status: Use the certificate to apply for Designated Activities status through Immigration.
- Prepare your business: Work toward meeting the ¥30 million capital requirement, hiring employees, and securing your office.
- Convert to Business Manager Visa: Once you meet all requirements, apply to change your status to Business Manager.
Check here for a detailed guide on the Startup Visa application process, consult with your chosen municipality’s support organization or contact SmartStart Japan for assistance.
How Does Having a Business Manager Visa / Owning a Company Change My Taxes in Japan?
Overview of Tax Obligations for Visa Holders. Consult our guide for an accountant in Japan for more help regarding yHow Does Having a Business Manager Visa / Owning a Company Change My Taxes in Japan?
Operating a business in Japan involves several layers of taxation. Here is an overview of the key tax obligations for Business Manager Visa holders:
Corporate Taxes
Japan’s corporate tax system includes national and local components:
- National corporate tax (法人税): The standard rate is 23.2% on taxable income. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with capital of ¥100 million or less pay a reduced rate of 15% on the first ¥8 million of income (scheduled to increase to 17% for SMEs with very high income).
- National local corporate tax (地方法人税): 10.3% of the corporate tax liability.
- Enterprise tax (事業税): Rates vary by prefecture and company size. For SMEs, rates range from approximately 3.5% to 7% depending on income level.
- Inhabitant tax (住民税): A percentage of corporate tax (approximately 10-12%) plus a per capita levy based on capital and employee count.
Effective corporate tax rate: Combining all taxes, the effective rate for most businesses is approximately 30% to 34%, depending on location and company size.
Important update for fiscal years beginning April 2026: A new 4% special defense surtax (特別法人税) will be imposed on corporate tax amounts exceeding ¥5 million annually. This will increase the effective tax rate to approximately 35% for affected businesses.
Consumption Tax (消費税)
The consumption tax rate is 10% on most goods and services (8% on food and certain daily necessities). Businesses must collect this tax from customers and remit it to tax authorities. New businesses may qualify for a consumption tax exemption during the first two fiscal years if capital is below ¥10 million, though the Invoice System (インボイス制度) implemented in 2023 has changed calculations for many businesses.
Personal Income Tax for Foreign Residents
As a Business Manager Visa holder, your personal tax status depends on your length of stay:
- Non-resident (less than one year in Japan): Taxed only on Japan-sourced income
- Resident (one year or more): Taxed on worldwide income at progressive rates from 5% to 45%
Social Insurance
All businesses with employees must enroll in and contribute to:
- Health insurance (健康保険)
- Employees’ pension (厚生年金)
- Employment insurance (雇用保険)
- Workers’ compensation insurance (労災保険)
Employers and employees share health insurance and pension costs. The combined employer contribution is approximately 15% to 16% of employee salaries.
Compliance is Now Scrutinized at Renewal
Under the October 2025 reforms, Immigration verifies your compliance with all tax and social insurance obligations when you apply to renew your Business Manager Visa. You must submit:
- Proof of labor insurance enrollment and premium payments
- Proof of social insurance enrollment and premium payments
- Tax payment certificates for corporate tax, consumption tax, local inhabitant tax, and enterprise tax
Failure to meet these obligations can result in visa renewal denial.
For detailed tax guidance, consult our Guide to Accountants in Japan or speak with a qualified tax professional.
Common Challenges in Obtaining a Business Manager Visa in Japan
5 Common Challenges in Obtaining a Business Manager Visa in Japan
The October 2025 reforms significantly raised the bar for Business Manager Visa approval. Here are the most common challenges applicants face and how to address them:
Meeting the ¥30 Million Capital Requirement
The sixfold increase in capital requirements is the biggest hurdle for many entrepreneurs. Strategies to consider:
- Investor funding: Seek investment from venture capital, angel investors, or corporate partners
- Savings and assets: Liquidate investments or assets to meet the threshold
- Loans: Some applicants use business loans, though you must clearly explain the source and repayment plan to Immigration
- Startup Visa first: If you need time to raise capital, use the Startup Visa pathway to establish your business while working toward the ¥30 million target
- Partnership: Consider bringing on a co-founder or investor who can contribute capital
Verification note: Immigration scrutinizes capital sources carefully. Temporary loans just for the application (with plans to withdraw funds afterward) can result in rejection or visa revocation.
Finding Qualified Employees
The mandatory employee requirement presents challenges because eligible workers are limited to Japanese nationals, special permanent residents, and Table 2 visa holders (permanent residents, spouses, long-term residents). Workers on standard work visas do not qualify.
Strategies:
- Hire early: Begin recruiting before your visa application
- Part-time to full-time: If you know Japanese nationals working part-time, discuss full-time employment
- Staffing agencies: Work with recruitment firms that understand the visa requirements
- Japanese language ability: If you hire a non-Japanese employee (Table 2 visa holder), ensure they can demonstrate JLPT N2 or equivalent
Meeting the Japanese Language Requirement
Either you or your employee must demonstrate JLPT N2 level proficiency. Options:
- Take the JLPT: The test is offered twice yearly (July and December)
- BJT Business Japanese Test: Offered more frequently than JLPT
- Hire a Japanese national: This satisfies the requirement automatically
- Hire a long-term resident with language proof: Foreign employees with Table 2 visas who graduated from Japanese universities or have JLPT certification qualify
Documenting Management Experience
The three-year management experience requirement can be difficult to prove, especially for first-time entrepreneurs or those from countries with different documentation practices.
Prepare:
- Employment certificates from previous employers stating your management role and responsibilities
- Tax payment records showing income from managerial positions
- Business registration documents if you owned a company abroad
- Reference letters from supervisors or business partners
If you lack management experience, the alternative is a master’s or doctoral degree in business, management, or a field related to your proposed business.
Obtaining Business Plan Verification
Finding a certified professional to verify your plan can be challenging, especially if your business model is unconventional or you do not have existing relationships in Japan.
Recommendations:
- Contact SmartStart Japan for referrals to qualified professionals
- Use accounting firms or consulting firms that specialize in foreign-owned businesses
- Allow sufficient time (two to four weeks) for the verification process
- Be prepared to revise your plan based on the professional’s feedback
Office Space Requirements
Home offices are no longer permitted under the new rules. You must secure dedicated commercial space appropriate for your business scale.
Considerations:
- Traditional office leases in Japan often require guarantors and significant deposits
- Serviced offices and shared offices may qualify if you have a dedicated, lockable space with your company nameplate
- Virtual offices and mail-forwarding addresses do not qualify
- Immigration may conduct site visits to verify your office
For guidance on finding appropriate office space, see our Guide to Rental Offices in Japan.
7 Tips to Avoid Application Rejection
- Do not underestimate the capital verification process
Immigration will scrutinize your capital sources. If you transfer funds from overseas, prepare documentation explaining the source (savings, investments, business income). Temporary loans from friends or family that will be repaid immediately after approval are red flags that can lead to rejection. - Ensure your employee meets all criteria
Confirm your employee is eligible (Japanese national, special permanent resident, or Table 2 visa holder), will work at least 30 hours per week, is enrolled in employment insurance, and can document Japanese language ability if they are not Japanese. - Have your business plan verified early
Do not wait until the last minute to obtain professional verification. The certified professional may request revisions, and the process typically takes two to four weeks. - Secure proper office space before applying
Your office lease must be in place at the time of application. The space should be commercial (not residential), have your company nameplate displayed, and be appropriate for your stated business activities and employee count. - Use the correct application forms
Immigration released new application forms effective October 16, 2025. Using outdated forms will delay your application. Download the current versions from the Immigration Services Agency website. - Prepare for compliance verification (renewals)
At renewal, you must demonstrate compliance with labor insurance, social insurance, and all tax obligations. Begin organizing these records from day one of your business operations.
Renewal and Changes
Visa Renewal Process
Visa Renewal Under the New Requirements
The October 2025 reforms affect not only new applications but also renewals. Here is what current Business Manager Visa holders need to know:
Transition Period (Until October 16, 2028)
If you currently hold a Business Manager Visa and your next renewal falls before October 16, 2028, Immigration will apply flexibility:
- You do not need to meet all new requirements immediately
- Immigration will evaluate your business performance and your progress toward meeting the new standards
- You should demonstrate a realistic plan to comply with the new requirements by your subsequent renewal
However, this flexibility has limits. Immigration may request a professional evaluation of your business if you do not yet meet the new criteria.
Renewals After October 16, 2028
From this date forward, all Business Manager Visa holders must meet the full October 2025 requirements at renewal:
- ¥30 million capital
- At least one qualifying full-time employee
- Japanese language capability (applicant or employee)
- Compliance with all tax and social insurance obligations
Exception: If your business is performing well (positive cash flow, tax compliance, growing operations) but you have not yet reached ¥30 million in capital, Immigration may exercise discretion on a case-by-case basis. However, do not rely on this exception without consulting a professional.
New Documentation for Renewals
Effective July 2025, Category 3 and 4 businesses (smaller enterprises) must submit a Business Activity Description Document (事業活動内容説明文書) at renewal. This document requires you to explain in your own words:
- Your day-to-day management activities
- How you make business decisions
- Your involvement in company operations
- Progress and challenges since your last application
This requirement addresses concerns about “name-only” managers who hold the visa but do not genuinely operate their businesses.
Compliance Documentation
At renewal, you must submit proof of:
- Labor insurance enrollment and premium payments (employment insurance, workers’ compensation)
- Social insurance enrollment and premium payments (health insurance, pension)
- Tax payment certificates for all applicable taxes (corporate tax, consumption tax, local inhabitant tax, enterprise tax)
Changing Visa Status
If you currently hold a different visa (such as Student, Engineer/Specialist in Humanities, or Dependent) and wish to change to Business Manager status, you must meet all October 2025 requirements. The previous, lower thresholds no longer apply to status change applications submitted after October 15, 2025.
Exception: If you are transitioning from a Startup Visa that was approved under the old system (confirmation certificate issued before October 16, 2025), you may be eligible to apply for Business Manager status under the previous criteria. Consult with an immigration specialist to confirm your eligibility.
Key Points for 2026
Common Challenges in Obtaining a Business ManageOctober 2025 Reforms Changed Everything
The Business Manager Visa requirements increased dramatically effective October 16, 2025. What previously required ¥5 million capital with no mandatory employees now requires ¥30 million capital AND at least one full-time employee AND Japanese language capability AND management experience or relevant education AND professional verification of your business plan.
What You Need to Apply
- ¥30 million minimum capital (paid-in capital for corporations)
- At least one full-time employee (Japanese national, special permanent resident, or Table 2 visa holder)
- JLPT N2 or equivalent Japanese language ability (you or your employee)
- Three or more years of management experience, or a relevant master’s/doctoral degree
- Business plan verified by a certified professional (中小企業診断士, 公認会計士, or 税理士)
- Dedicated commercial office space (home offices no longer permitted in most cases)
Alternative Pathway
If you cannot meet these requirements immediately, the Startup Visa provides up to two years to prepare your business before transitioning to the Business Manager Visa.
For Current Visa Holders
You have until October 16, 2028 to meet the new requirements at renewal. Use this transition period to increase your capital, hire qualifying employees, and ensure full compliance with tax and social insurance obligations.
Compliance Is Mandatory
Immigration now verifies your tax and social insurance compliance at every renewal. Maintain complete records from day one.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still get a Business Manager Visa with ¥5 million capital?
No. As of October 16, 2025, the minimum capital requirement is ¥30 million. Applications submitted after this date must meet the new threshold.
What if I already have a Business Manager Visa with less than ¥30 million capital?
Existing visa holders have a transition period until October 16, 2028. During this time, Immigration will evaluate your progress toward meeting the new requirements. You should work toward compliance before your renewal after this date.
Can I use a virtual office address?
No. You must have a physical, dedicated commercial office space. Virtual offices and mail-forwarding services do not qualify.
Who counts as a qualifying employee?
Only Japanese nationals, special permanent residents, and foreign nationals with Table 2 residence status (permanent resident, spouse of Japanese national, spouse of permanent resident, or long-term resident). Workers on standard work visas (Table 1) do not count.
What if I do not speak Japanese?
You can still qualify if your full-time employee demonstrates JLPT N2 or equivalent ability. Alternatively, if you hire a Japanese national, the language requirement is automatically met.
How long does the Business Manager Visa process take?
Typically two to four months from application submission to entry into Japan, including one to three months for COE processing and one to two weeks for visa issuance.
What is the Startup Visa and should I consider it?
The Startup Visa allows foreign entrepreneurs to reside in Japan for up to two years while preparing their business. If you cannot immediately meet the ¥30 million capital requirement or other criteria, this pathway lets you build toward compliance before applying for the Business Manager Visa.
Do I need a lawyer or immigration specialist?
Given the complexity of the new requirements, working with a qualified administrative scrivener (行政書士) or immigration lawyer is strongly recommended. They can help ensure your documentation is complete and your business plan meets Immigration’s expectations.
Final Thoughts
If you are ready to take the next step in establishing your business in Japan, SmartStart Japan is here to help. Our team specializes in guiding foreign entrepreneurs through the Business Manager Visa process, from business plan development and professional verification to company registration and Immigration applications. We understand the October 2025 requirements and can help you navigate the new landscape successfully.
Whether you need to meet the ¥30 million capital requirement, find qualifying employees, or determine whether the Startup Visa is the right first step for your situation, we provide clear guidance tailored to your circumstances. Contact us for a free consultation to discuss your path forward.
For detailed guidance on company formation, visit our comprehensive guide: How to Set Up a Company in Japan.
