How to Get a Business Manager Visa in Japan

Are you an entrepreneur planning to start a business in Japan?
Navigating the Business Manager Visa can be complex and overwhelming. In this guide, we break down the requirements, application process, and common pitfalls to help you succeed. Keep reading to find out how to secure your visa smoothly!

1. What is a Business Manager Visa?

The Business Manager Visa allows foreign nationals to start or manage a business in Japan. Designed for entrepreneurs, this visa typically grants a 1-year or 3-year stay, with the possibility of renewal.

2. Company Registration and Visa Application

Separate Processes but Both Essential:
- Company registration and visa application are distinct processes, but both are mandatory for obtaining a Business Manager Visa.
Company Registration:
- Involves preparing articles of incorporation, securing a business address separate from your residence, and registering with the Legal Affairs Bureau.
- Licenses and Notifications: Business licenses and tax office notifications must also be completed.
Visa Application:
- Requires a Certificate of Eligibility (COE), which you can apply for only after completing company registration.

3. Requirements for a Business Manager Visa

1. Capital

The business must have at least ¥30 million in capital or investment funds. This is a significant increase from the previous ¥5 million standard.

2. Business Premises

You must secure a dedicated commercial office space. A home office does not meet the requirement.

3. Local Employment

You must employ at least one full-time staff member who falls under any of the following categories:
- Japanese national
- Special Permanent Resident
- Permanent Resident
- Spouse of a Japanese national
- Spouse of a Permanent Resident
- Long-Term Resident

4. Japanese Language Proficiency

Either the applicant or the full-time staff member must possess sufficient Japanese language ability (equivalent to CEFR B2 level or higher).
This can be proven by one of the following:
- JLPT N2 or above
- BJT Business Japanese Proficiency Test score of 400 or higher
- More than 20 years of continuous residence in Japan as a mid-to-long-term resident
- Graduation from a Japanese university or other higher education institution
- Completion of compulsory education and graduation from a Japanese high school

5. Business Plan Certification

The business plan must be evaluated and certified by one of the following qualified professionals:
- Small and Medium Enterprise Management Consultant (中小企業診断士)
- Certified Public Accountant (公認会計士)
- Tax Accountant (税理士)

6. Business Experience or Educational Background

The applicant must either:
- Hold a master’s, doctorate, or professional degree in a relevant field of management or the business area, or
- Have at least 3 years of experience in management or in the field related to the business being established

7. Social Insurance and Tax Compliance

Immigration will verify full compliance with:
- Employment Insurance and Workers’ Accident Compensation Insurance
- Health Insurance and Pension (Shakai Hoken)
- Corporate and consumption taxes

8. Industry-Specific Licenses and Permits

If your business falls under a regulated industry (e.g., restaurant, real estate, travel agency), you must obtain the necessary permits or licenses in advance.

Banner image linking to Tanabe Immigration Office

4. Domestic Applicants vs. Overseas Applicants

Domestic Applicants (Change of Status / 在留資格変更許可申請）

If you already hold a different visa, you can apply to change your status without leaving Japan.

Overseas Applicants (COE Required / 在留資格認定許可申請)

Apply for a COE first, then get a visa stamp at the Japanese consulate in your home country.

Challenges:

Opening a bank account or signing a lease for an office can be difficult without a visa.
Catch-22 Situation: A visa is required to open a bank account or rent an office, but these are also prerequisites for the visa application.
Support from a Local Contact: In many cases, having a Japanese business partner or guarantor is essential to move forward.

5. Common Reasons for Rejection

Insufficient or Unclear Capital

Immigration is highly cautious about “show money” tactics. Documentation proving the origin and transfer of funds is essential, including loan agreements if funds were borrowed.

Unrealistic Business Plan

Business plans lacking credible financial projections or local relevance are often rejected. Detailed documents like sales forecasts, contracts, and supplier agreements are crucial

Inadequate Office Facilities

Using a residential address as an office or a lease under a personal name instead of the company’s name leads to rejection.

Management vs. Operations

The visa holder must be engaged in management duties, not operational tasks like serving customers. If no staff are employed, immigration may suspect the applicant of intending to manage operations directly.

6. Running Costs and Professional Fees

Administrative Costs:
- Hiring immigration lawyers, tax accountants, and labor consultants is often essential as most paperwork and procedures are in Japanese.
- Monthly Retainer Fees:
  - Immigration Lawyer (行政書士): Approx. 10,000–50,000 JPY/month.
  - Tax Accountant (税理士): Approx. 30,000–70,000 JPY/month.
  - Labor Consultant (社会保険労務士): Approx. 10,000–50,000 JPY/month.
- Translation Costs:
  - Finding English-speaking experts can be challenging. Interpreter fees for meetings should also be considered.
- Corporate Tax:
  - Even without profit, corporate tax (around 70,000 JPY annually) is mandatory.
- Hidden Costs:
  - Handling permits, insurance, and employee benefits adds to the running costs.

Required Documents

Below is a commonly requested document list for a Business Manager Visa application under the new 2025 rules.
However, the exact requirements may vary depending on your specific case or regional immigration office. Always confirm with the immigration authority or your legal advisor.

Application Form (申請書)
ID Photo 3*４ｃｍ
Articles of Incorporation (定款)
Certificate of Company Registration (履歴事項全部証明書)
Lease Agreement for Office
Employment contract(s) for local staff
Japanese language certificate (e.g., JLPT N2)
Certified Business Plan (with evaluation from a qualified expert)
Proof of capital injection and bank statements
Tax and social insurance compliance documents
Resume and educational/professional credentials
Any applicable business permits/licenses

7. Expert Assistance: Why You Should Consult a Professional

Navigating Hidden Requirements and Costs!
Applying for a Business Manager Visa involves numerous hidden requirements and potential pitfalls. Consulting with an expert can help: