【2025 Revised Edition】What is a Business Manager visa Japan|Requirements & Renewal Tips

The Business Manager Visa is a residence status required for foreign nationals who wish to operate or manage a company in Japan. However, due to the legal revision that took effect on October 16, 2025, the application requirements have become stricter than ever before, rendering much of the information available online outdated. Rest assured — this article provides a clear and detailed explanation, from the fundamental question “What is a Business Manager Visa?” to the new requirements such as the 30 million yen capital threshold and relevant business experience, as well as the application process, required documents, and tips for renewal. All information is based on the expertise of professionals who have supported numerous visa applications.

✓　The Business Management Visa is necessary when starting a business in Japan or when planning to stay for a mid to long term as a manager or administrator of an existing business. ✓　Foreign nationals with statuses of ‘Permanent Resident’, ‘Spouse or Child of a Japanese National’, ‘Spouse or Child of a Permanent Resident’, or ‘Long-Term Resident’ can manage a company in Japan without obtaining a Business Management Visa. ✓Due to the legal amendment on October 16, 2025, the eligibility requirements for obtaining a Business Manager Visa were significantly tightened. Applicants must now meet all of the following conditions: Have paid-in capital of at least 30 million yen; Employ at least one full-time staff member; Submit a business plan verified by a qualified professional; Possess at least three years of management experience or hold a master’s degree (or higher); and Demonstrate Japanese language proficiency. ✓When obtaining a Business Manager Visa as a manager rather than a company founder, the same requirements as those for entrepreneurs generally apply. ✓Even if a company has multiple foreign executives, it does not guarantee that all of them can obtain a Business Management Visa. ✓The initial residency period for a Business Management Visa is one year, but if the requirements are met at the time of renewal, extensions of three years, five years, or more may be granted. ✓When renewing a Business Manager Visa, in addition to business stability, factors such as proper payment of taxes and social insurance contributions, as well as the applicant’s record of residence in Japan, are now being examined more strictly than before.

By reading this article to the end, you will gain a clear understanding of the entire framework of the Business Manager Visa under the new system, empowering you to take the first confident step toward becoming a business owner in Japan.

1. [Effective October 16, 2025] Updated Requirements for Japan’s Business Manager Visa

On October 16, 2025, the requirements for obtaining a Business Manager Visa were significantly tightened. This change reflects Japan’s intention to attract business owners with higher qualifications and more stable business foundations. The main revisions are as follows.

• Increase in Capital Requirement
  From 5 million yen → to at least 30 million yen
• Mandatory Employment Requirement
  (The previous option to choose between capital and employment has been abolished) → At least one full-time employee is now mandatory
• New Requirement for Management Experience or Academic Background
  Applicants must have either at least three years of management or administrative experience, or a master’s degree (or higher) in a relevant field
• New Japanese Language Requirement
  Either the applicant or at least one full-time employee must possess Japanese language proficiency equivalent to JLPT N2 or higher
• Mandatory Expert Verification of Business Plan
  The business plan must be reviewed and verified by one of the following professionals: a certified management consultant, a certified public accountant (CPA), or a licensed tax accountant

From now on, those seeking to obtain a Business Manager Visa must prepare thoroughly with the understanding that they will need to meet all of these new and demanding requirements.

2. What is a Business Manager visa Japan (Status of residence “Business/Manager”)?

The Business Manager Visa (Status of Residence “Business/Manager”) is a work visa that allows individuals to engage in business management and administrative activities in Japan. Previously known as the “Investor/Business Manager Visa,” the name was changed to “Business Manager Visa” to reflect that it can now be applied for and obtained without ties to foreign capital.

Japanese nationals and permanent residents can engage in company management in Japan by taking on roles such as Representative Director or Director. However, foreign nationals, depending on their type of residence status, may be appointed as officers but cannot receive compensation for their activities within Japan. However, obtaining a Business Manager Visa allows foreign nationals to stay in Japan medium to long-term and engage in activities as company managers, such as Representative Directors, Directors, Branch Managers, Factory Managers, or Department Heads.

2-1. What You Can Do with a Business Manager Visa Japan

By obtaining a Business Manager Visa, foreign nationals can:

• Engage in activities to start and manage a business in Japan, or to be involved in the management of such a business.
• Engage in activities to participate in and manage an already established business in Japan, or to be involved in the management of such a business.
• Engage in activities to manage a business in Japan on behalf of the person currently managing it, or to be involved in the management of such a business.

Engaging in business management activities includes making important decisions related to business operations and executing duties as an executive officer, such as a Representative Director or Director. Additionally, engaging in business administration activities refers to roles like Branch Manager, Factory Manager, or Department Head. The Business Manager Visa is designed for these types of management and administrative activities.

In addition to an investment of at least 30 million yen, the foreign national must personally engage in the business management or administration.

To obtain a Business Manager Visa, one must be personally engaged in the management or administration of the business. Simply investing funds is not sufficient to be granted a Business Manager Visa.

There are no restrictions on the type of business. As long as the business is conducted legally in Japan, you are free to engage in any business activities such as trade, IT, manufacturing, restaurants, or used car sales.

A common inquiry involves foreign nationals wanting to establish a company and purchase real estate in the company’s name for rental management. However, asset management companies that solely manage their own properties or properties owned by the individual are not recognized as conducting stable and continuous business operations. To obtain a Business Manager Visa for rental management, a business plan must demonstrate a business scale recognized as substantial and operational.

2-2. Some visas allow you to run a company without a business administration visa.

Foreign nationals with statuses equivalent to that of Japanese nationals, who have no work restrictions—such as “Permanent Resident,” “Spouse or Child of Japanese National,” “Spouse or Child of Permanent Resident,” and “Long-Term Resident”—can manage a company without obtaining a Business Manager Visa.

However, foreign nationals with visas not intended for management or administration purposes, such as “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services,” “Skilled Labor,” “Student,” or “Dependent” visas, cannot engage in business management or administration activities in Japan. Additionally, those who come to Japan on a short-term stay visa are limited to activities such as business negotiations, contract signing, meetings, and business communications.

In recent years, foreign nationals residing overseas have been allowed to register a company in Japan. However, it is important to note that being able to establish a company and being able to stay in Japan to actively manage the company are separate issues.

When a foreigner with a “Technical/Humanities/International Services” visa becomes a manager due to promotion

When a foreign national residing in Japan on an “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” visa (status of residence) is promoted to a managerial or executive position, they should change to a Business Manager Visa. However, in practice, it is not required to immediately switch to a Business Manager Visa. It is acceptable to change to the Business Manager Visa at the time of the expiration of their current “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” visa.

3. [October 2025 Revision] Five Requirements for Establishing a Company and Obtaining a Business Manager Visa

Due to the system revision implemented on October 16, 2025, the requirements for obtaining a Business Manager Visa were fundamentally reviewed and significantly tightened.

From now on, both those planning to start a new business (entrepreneurs) and those assuming managerial positions in existing companies (managers) are, in principle, required to meet all five of the following new requirements.

3-1. Requirement 1: Business Scale (Capital of at least 30 million yen and at least one full-time employee)

The standards for demonstrating business stability have been significantly raised.

Previously, meeting either a capital requirement of 5 million yen or employing two full-time staff members was sufficient. Under the new system, however, applicants must now satisfy both of the following conditions.

• Capital or total investment of 30 million yen or more
• Employment of at least one full-time employee

Capital or total investment of 30 million yen or more

When applying for a Business Manager Visa, the immigration authorities conduct a strict review of the source of the 30 million yen capital — in other words, how the funds were prepared. It must be clearly demonstrated that the funds were obtained through legitimate means, as any form of nominal or artificial funding, commonly referred to as “window dressing,” will not be accepted.

The following section explains the key points and required supporting documents for different methods of raising capital.

When the capital has been saved personally

If you have accumulated the capital yourself, you must provide documents proving that the funds originated from legitimate income. These may include salary statements, bank transaction records, tax withholding slips, or income tax returns, all of which serve to demonstrate how the funds were prepared. In addition, if the capital was raised through the sale of assets such as real estate, the corresponding sales contract must also be submitted.

Proof of Overseas Remittance

If the capital is remitted from overseas to Japan, it is necessary to keep records of the remittance history and clearly show how the funds were transferred. Since transfer fees may be deducted for international transactions, the final amount received may fall short of the intended total depending on the exchange rate. Therefore, it is advisable to remit more than the required amount and keep all related bank receipts and transaction statements as proof.

When Bringing Cash into Japan

When entering Japan with more than one million yen in cash, it is mandatory to declare it at customs. Failure to complete this procedure may lead to legal issues. The declaration documents obtained at that time serve as important evidence to prove the lawful carrying of the capital funds.

Loans from Relatives or Friends

When borrowing capital funds from family or friends, documentation proving that the transaction actually took place is required. A written loan agreement (with a revenue stamp), bank transfer statements, and financial institution transaction records serve as evidence that the loan represents a legitimate transfer of funds. In cases where the funds are borrowed from a parent, additional documents such as proof of the parent’s income or assets and a certificate verifying the family relationship must also be provided.

Starting a Business as an International Student

When an international student seeks to start a business and obtain a Business Manager Visa, the examination of the capital source becomes particularly strict. Because a student visa does not permit full-time employment, funds earned even through part-time work authorized under a work permit are not accepted as valid capital. Therefore, it is necessary to prove that the funds originated from financial support provided by parents or other family members. Clear records and supporting documents, such as evidence of remittances from parents, must be submitted.

Employment of at least one full-time employee

In this context, a “full-time employee” refers only to Japanese nationals, special permanent residents, or foreign nationals holding residence statuses without work restrictions, such as “Permanent Resident” or “Spouse or Child of a Japanese National.” Foreign nationals working under other types of work visas are not included, so special care must be taken when securing personnel.

Full-time employees must be directly employed.

A full-time employee refers to a staff member who is continuously engaged to perform the company’s business activities, with clearly defined duties and responsibilities, and compensation appropriate to their role. The work schedule must generally consist of fixed working hours based on a plan of at least five days per week and 30 hours or more per week. Therefore, part-time workers do not qualify. Moreover, the employment relationship must, in principle, be a direct employment contract; personnel working under arrangements such as secondment, dispatch, or subcontracting are not recognized as full-time employees.

When employing staff, it is necessary to enroll them in social insurance and comply with labor laws.

When operating a business that employs staff, it is required to enroll in social and labor insurance programs. In addition, a written employment contract must be prepared for each employee, and its contents—such as compliance with minimum wage standards—will be examined to ensure there are no violations of labor laws.

Store-based businesses require staff members in addition to the business owner

Because the Business Manager Visa is intended for individuals who engage in management and administrative activities, tasks such as customer service or food preparation at a store can only be performed temporarily as supplementary duties. You are not permitted to engage primarily in such front-line work.

Therefore, for store-based businesses, it is necessary to hire on-site staff such as customer service representatives or kitchen workers in addition to the foreign business owner. These staff members may be Japanese or foreign nationals, and may be full-time employees or part-time workers. However, it is important to note that having dedicated store operation staff is a requirement.

3-2. Requirement 2: Securing an Independent Business Office

It is necessary to secure a physical location for conducting business activities. This requirement has also become stricter — as a rule, using one’s residence as both a home and a business office is no longer permitted. Virtual offices and shared areas of coworking spaces that are open to anyone are also not accepted. You must lease a clearly separated and independent space dedicated to business activities, under the company’s name.

The business office must be secured within Japan

When obtaining a Business Manager Visa, it is essential to establish a tangible business office in Japan under the company’s name where actual business activities are conducted. To meet the business office requirement, the following two conditions must be satisfied.

• Economic activities must be conducted under a single management entity within a defined location — that is, within a clearly designated section of space.
• The production or provision of goods and services must be carried out continuously by employing personnel and maintaining necessary equipment.

This definition of a business office is based on the definition provided in Item 2 of the General Principles of the Japan Standard Industrial Classification established by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications.

Virtual offices are not accepted

Many people who are just starting their businesses wish to reduce fixed costs by using a virtual office. However, to obtain a Business Manager Visa, the office must meet the requirements described above. A virtual office used only for receiving calls or mail — without actual business activity — does not qualify as a legitimate business office.

Similarly, rental or shared offices are not acceptable if you only use the common areas accessible to all members. The business must occupy an independent, clearly separated space for its operations. Rooms divided only by simple partitions are not recognized as independent offices.

In addition, the office must be equipped with at least a telephone, fax machine, computer, and copier, and when applying for a Business Manager Visa, photos of these items must be submitted as evidence that they are in place.

The lease for a rental property must be made under the company’s name, and the property must be rented explicitly for business use

For the lease of a business office, the contract must be concluded under the company’s name, and the purpose of use must be specified as for business, store, or office use. If the purpose of use is listed as residential, the application may be rejected.

Because the Business Manager Visa requires continuous business operations, short-term rentals on a monthly basis or the use of mobile setups such as food stalls that can be easily moved are not permitted.

The size of the office must be appropriate for the nature of the business and the number of employees.

The size of the office must be appropriate for the company’s business activities and the number of employees to be hired.

For industries such as manufacturing, educational institutes, or used car trading, it is also necessary to secure additional spaces such as storage areas for materials, classrooms, or parking areas for vehicles. Furthermore, if multiple employees are expected to be hired, sufficient workspace must be provided for them to perform their duties.

3-3. Requirement 3: A Feasible Business Plan Verified by a Qualified Professional

While it remains important to submit a business plan that demonstrates the stability and continuity of the enterprise, a new system has been introduced to ensure the credibility of that plan. Under this requirement, the submitted business plan must be reviewed and verified by a qualified management professional—such as a certified management consultant, certified public accountant (CPA), or licensed tax accountant—to confirm that its contents are concrete and feasible.

It is no longer enough to simply prepare a plan; applicants must produce a detailed, data-driven plan convincing enough to satisfy professional scrutiny.

The ability to demonstrate the propriety, stability, and continuity of the business

Businesses eligible for the Business Manager Visa must be conducted properly and demonstrate both stability and continuity. A business plan explaining these aspects must be prepared and submitted to the Immigration Services Agency.

Propriety of the business

As long as the business can legally operate in Japan, foreign nationals with a Business Manager Visa may engage in any type of business, such as operating restaurants or engaging in trade, without restriction on the nature of their activities.

However, the business must maintain propriety—for example, ensuring that the procurement and sales routes for materials and products are legitimate, obtaining all necessary permits and licenses (or demonstrating a clear prospect of obtaining them if not yet acquired at the time of visa application), and enrolling employees in labor and social insurance programs when hiring staff.

Stability and continuity of the business

In Japan, a business with no prospect of stable, ongoing operations—such as one that continues to run at a loss—cannot obtain a Business Manager Visa.

To prove the stability and continuity of a new business, a feasible business plan is required. This plan should include detailed and strategic projections—such as market analysis, competitor analysis, sales and financial plans, and marketing strategies—covering not just one year but approximately three years as a medium- to long-term outlook. Additionally, it should describe the supply and sales routes, personal networks, unique expertise, and the business experience of the entrepreneur. The plan must demonstrate that the business can generate profits and operate sustainably into the future.

Engaging in the management of the business

“Engaging in the management of the business” means that the applicant for the Business Manager Visa personally takes part in the actual management of the company. Specifically, this refers to acting as a representative director or director who makes important business decisions and executes operations as an executive officer. If the applicant invests 30 million yen or more and assumes the role of representative director, it is highly likely that they will be regarded as substantially managing the business. However, if the applicant invests funds but does not become an executive officer and instead appoints a third party as representative director, or if they acquire non-voting shares and serve only nominally as a director, they are unlikely to be recognized as actually engaging in management. Although the 30-million-yen capital requirement does not mean that the applicant must personally contribute that entire amount, immigration authorities will consider the applicant’s share of investment, the source of invested funds, and the overall business circumstances to determine whether the applicant is genuinely managing the business.

3-4. Requirement 4: The Business Owner’s Own Career or Educational Background

To objectively demonstrate the applicant’s qualifications as a business owner, it has become mandatory to meet one of the following requirements.

At least three years of practical experience in business management or administration

This includes experience in positions such as president, director, or department manager. The period spent engaging in entrepreneurial preparation activities under the “Designated Activities” visa status may also be counted toward the three years of experience.

A master’s degree or higher in business management or in the field related to the proposed business

This includes degrees such as a Master of Business Administration (MBA) or a doctoral, master’s, or professional degree in a field related to the intended business—for example, a master’s degree in information science for an IT enterprise. Equivalent degrees obtained from foreign universities are also accepted.

3-5. Requirement 5: A Certain Level of Japanese Language Proficiency

To demonstrate the ability to conduct business smoothly in Japan, it has newly become mandatory for either the applicant or at least one full-time employee to possess a sufficient level of Japanese language proficiency.

Specific Standards for “Sufficient Level of Japanese Language Proficiency”

For individuals other than Japanese nationals or special permanent residents, one of the following conditions must be met.

• Certified as having passed Level N2 or higher on the Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) administered by the Japan Educational Exchanges and Services (JEES) and the Japan Foundation
• Scored 400 points or higher on the Business Japanese Proficiency Test (BJT) administered by the Japan Kanji Aptitude Testing Foundation
• Has resided in Japan as a mid- to long-term resident for 20 years or more
• Has graduated from a university or other higher education institution in Japan
• Has completed compulsory education and graduated from a high school in Japan

This requirement does not necessarily need to be fulfilled by the applicant personally; it may be satisfied by a full-time employee. Furthermore, for the purpose of meeting the Japanese language proficiency requirement, “full-time employees” may include foreign nationals working under other types of work visas, such as the “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” status.

4. When a Foreign National Seeks to Obtain a Business Manager Visa in Japan to Start a Sole Proprietorship

Some people may wish to “start a business first as a sole proprietor without establishing a company.” Legally, it remains possible under the new system for a foreign national to start a business as a sole proprietor and obtain a Business Manager Visa.

However, due to the legal revision on October 16, 2025, it has become extremely difficult in practice for a sole proprietor to meet the visa requirements. We will explain the reasons in detail below, comparing them with the case of establishing a company.

4-1. The Greatest Challenge: 30 Million Yen in “Capital Investment in the Business”

Under the new system, the business scale requirement has been raised to 30 million yen or more. The meaning of this “30 million yen” differs significantly between establishing a company and operating as a sole proprietor.

In the case of establishing a company (such as a joint-stock company or a limited liability company)

If the “paid-in capital amount” or the “total investment amount” is 30 million yen or more, the requirement is satisfied. In other words, as long as you can prove that the company’s bank account holds 30 million yen as capital, there is no issue.

In the case of a sole proprietor

Since there is no concept of capital for a sole proprietorship, the assessment is based on the “total amount invested in the business.” Specifically, it is necessary to prove that the total of the following expenses amounts to 30 million yen or more.

• Business office acquisition costs: security deposit, key money, brokerage fees, and one year’s rent, etc.
• Employee salaries: total annual salary payments for hired staff
• Capital investment expenses: costs for purchasing machinery, computers, furniture, and other equipment necessary for the business

In other words, while a company can simply keep the 30 million yen in its bank account as capital, a sole proprietor must prove—through detailed documentation—that the entire amount has actually been spent and invested for business purposes. This represents an exceptionally high hurdle.

4-2. Employment of at Least One Full-Time Employee Becomes Mandatory

Under the previous system, hiring employees was not required as long as 5 million yen in capital was prepared. However, under the new system, in addition to the 30 million yen business scale requirement, it has become mandatory to employ at least one full-time staff member.

This full-time employee must be a Japanese national or a permanent resident and must be continuously employed and paid from the start of business operations. For sole proprietors, this fixed personnel cost represents a significant financial burden.

4-3. Other Strict Requirements That Sole Proprietors Must Also Meet

In addition to the two requirements mentioned above, all other new requirements must, of course, also be met.

Securing an Independent Business Office

As a rule, using one’s residence as both a home and an office is not permitted.

Business Plan Verified by a Qualified Professional

A business plan endorsed by a certified expert, such as a certified management consultant, confirming that it is “feasible,” is required.

Business Owner’s Career or Educational Background

At least three years of management experience or a master’s degree (or higher) in a related field is required.

Japanese Language Proficiency

Either the applicant or at least one full-time employee must possess Japanese language proficiency equivalent to JLPT N2 or higher.

4-4. Establishing a Company Is the More Realistic Option for Obtaining the Visa

Considering all of the above, while it is theoretically possible for a foreign national to obtain a Business Manager Visa as a sole proprietor under the new system, in practice, it is almost impossible. The complexity of proving that the full 30 million yen has actually been invested in the business, combined with the ongoing financial burden of continuously employing full-time staff, makes the requirements far more demanding than in the case of establishing a company. To reliably obtain a visa to operate as a business owner in Japan, the most practical and rational approach is to establish a joint-stock company (Kabushiki Kaisha) or a limited liability company (Godo Kaisha) and prepare 30 million yen in capital.

5. When Two or More Foreign Nationals Apply for a Business Manager Visa Under a Single Company

If multiple foreigners establish a company through joint investment and all become directors, can all of them obtain a Business Manager Visa?

In conclusion, even if multiple foreigners become directors, it does not necessarily mean that all can obtain a Business Manager Visa.

When multiple foreigners serve as directors, an evaluation will be conducted to determine if the business scale, workload, sales, and number of employees justify having multiple managers. Each foreign director’s role and responsibilities will be assessed to determine if they can be recognized as “managing or operating a business” under the Business Manager Visa criteria.

As a result of the evaluation, foreigners whose main activities are not recognized as managing or operating the business will not be able to obtain a Business Manager Visa.

The requirements for multiple foreigners to obtain a Business Manager Visa are as follows:

• There must be reasonable grounds for each foreigner to be recognized as managing or operating the business, considering the scale and workload of the business
• The specific duties each foreigner will engage in regarding business management or operation must be clearly defined
• Each foreigner must receive compensation for the duties related to business management or operation

Therefore, it is important to note that even if each foreigner invests more than 30 million yen, it does not mean that all of them can obtain a Business Manager Visa. If, given the business scale, only some individuals are likely to obtain the visa, others should consider alternative visas such as “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” or “Intra-company Transferee.”

Below, we introduce cases approved by the Immigration Services Agency of Japan where two or more foreigners jointly managed a business and were granted Business Manager Visas.

6. Process for Obtaining a Business Manager Visa in Japan

When obtaining a Business Manager Visa after establishing (starting) a company, the procedure follows the steps below.

1. Decide the basic details of the company
2. Create the company’s official seal
3. Prepare the Articles of Incorporation and have them notarized by a notary public
4. Deposit the capital funds
5. Apply for company registration and submit the business commencement notification
6. Apply for the Business Manager Visa

When obtaining a Business Manager Visa as an executive of an existing company without starting a new business, the procedure follows the steps below.

1. Prepare the required documents for the Business Manager Visa application
2. Submit the Business Manager Visa application

7. Required Documents for Business Manager Visa Application [2025 Revised Version]

Due to the legal revision in October 2025, the documents required for the Business Manager Visa application have been significantly revised and expanded.

This section explains the newly required documents, focusing on typical new businesses classified under Categories 3 and 4.

7-1. Basic Documents Required for All Applicants

• Application for Certificate of Eligibility
• Passport
• Photograph (4 cm × 3 cm)
• Self-addressed return envelope

7-2. Documents Proving the Company’s Business Activities

• Business plan (evaluated by a certified management consultant, certified public accountant, or licensed tax accountant; must include a three-year financial projection, business partners, and sales methods)
• Certificate of company registration (or a copy of the Articles of Incorporation if registration has not yet been completed)
• Company profile (including company name, history, directors, organization, and business activities with major clients and business records) — a printed copy of the company’s website “About” page may also be accepted
• Copy of the most recent financial statements (if joining an existing business)
• Documents proving the existence of the business office (lease agreement, office floor plan, photos, or property registration certificate if owned)
• Minutes of the shareholders’ meeting approving executive compensation (recommended compensation: at least 200,000 yen per month)
• Notification of establishment of a salary payment office (stamped by the tax office)
• Documents related to company establishment notification (stamped by the tax office), etc.

7-3. Additional Documents to Prove Compliance with the New Requirements

Documents clarifying the scale of the business

• Documents related to full-time employees: Documents concerning the payment of wages to employed staff, a certificate of residence, an employment contract, or an offer letter, etc.
• Documents related to capital: The company’s balance sheet, a certificate of registered matters, or documents that can verify the source of the capital, etc.

Documents clarifying the applicant’s background or career history

• If proved by educational background: A diploma or degree certificate for a doctoral, master’s, or professional degree in business administration or a related field.
• If proved by work experience: A résumé specifying the details and duration of the activities, along with a certificate of employment or other supporting documents.

Documents demonstrating Japanese language proficiency

• If verified by examination: A certificate of passing or transcript for JLPT N2 or an equivalent test.
• If verified by educational background: A graduation certificate from a Japanese university or other educational institution.
• If verified through an employee’s proficiency: The employee’s certificate of residence and documents related to wage payments, etc., are also required.

In cases where the business requires licenses or permits

• A copy of the license or permit demonstrating the status of authorization obtained.

Preparing all these documents accurately and without omissions, and objectively demonstrating both the feasibility of the business and the applicant’s own qualifications, is the key to obtaining the visa.

8. Period of Stay and Renewal for Japan’s Business Manager Visa

The duration of stay for a Business Manager Visa includes 3 months, 4 months, 6 months, 1 year, 3 years, and 5 years. While the duration is generally determined based on the content of the application, it is typically set for 1 year. Additionally, the renewal period for the Business Manager Visa is usually every 1 year. However, depending on the business situation, the residency status of the manager, and the size of the company, renewals for 2 or 3 years may also be possible.

The 4-month Business Manager Visa (Startup Visa) is intended for foreign entrepreneurs residing overseas to prepare for opening their business after arriving in Japan. Within 4 months of arrival, they must complete tasks such as securing a business office and registering the company. After these tasks are completed, they can proceed with the visa renewal.

8-1. [Important] Transitional Measures for Current Visa Holders at the Time of Renewal

The regulatory changes implemented on October 16, 2025, primarily apply to new applicants; however, they also significantly affect renewal applications for those already residing in Japan under a Business Manager Visa. That said, a three-year transitional period has been established to ease the impact of these sudden changes, so you can rest assured.

Renewal applications within three years after enforcement (until October 16, 2028)

Renewal applications submitted by October 16, 2028 — three years after the enforcement date — will be subject to special treatment.

During this period, even if the new approval standards (such as having a capital of 30 million yen or employing at least one full-time staff member) are not yet met, the application will not be automatically denied. The immigration authorities will make a comprehensive judgment based on the applicant’s current business conditions and the likelihood of meeting the new standards in the future.

However, during the examination process, applicants may be required to submit documents containing a business evaluation prepared by a certified professional, such as a Small and Medium Enterprise Management Consultant.

Renewal applications after the end of the transitional period (from October 17, 2028 onward)

For renewal applications submitted after three years from the enforcement date, applicants are, in principle, required to comply with the new approval standards.

However, even in such cases, certain exceptions are provided. If the new standards cannot yet be met, renewal may still be granted when the following conditions are satisfied:

• The business is operating in good financial condition
• Tax obligations, such as corporate tax, have been properly fulfilled
• There is a reasonable prospect of meeting the new standards by the next renewal

If these requirements are met, immigration authorities will take the overall residency situation into account in determining whether to approve the renewal. This treatment also applies to holders of the “Highly Skilled Professional (i)(ha)” status, which is based on business or management activities.

Those currently conducting business under a “Business Manager” visa should use this three-year transitional period to prepare strategically so that their business can meet the new standards in time.

8-2. Tips for Obtaining a Three-Year Period of Stay

Even if the initial period of stay granted under the Business Manager Visa is one year or less, it may be possible to obtain a three-year period upon renewal by meeting the following conditions.

• That notifications required under the Immigration Control Act—such as changes of address or employer—have been properly submitted without omission.
• A clear plan to remain in Japan for more than one year
• Having a child of compulsory education age who is enrolled in a school (including international schools)
• Employment with a stable organization such as a listed company or a local government
• Stable business management and financial performance

Even if your period of stay is three years or more, be careful! New mandatory requirements for permanent residency applications

Once the period of stay under a Business Manager Visa exceeds three years, many holders begin to consider applying for permanent residency. Obtaining permanent residency eliminates the need for visa renewals and removes restrictions on activities in Japan, offering significant advantages.

However, due to the legal revision enacted on October 16, 2025, a major change was introduced to the rules governing permanent residency applications. Simply having resided in Japan for three years or more is no longer sufficient to apply.

Under the new rule, at the time of applying for permanent residency, your company must fully comply with the new post-revision approval standards—such as having a capital of at least 30 million yen and employing at least one full-time staff member.

According to the official announcement from the Immigration Services Agency, after the enforcement date, applicants who do not meet these new standards will not be granted permanent residency if they are staying under a “Business Manager” visa or a “Highly Skilled Professional” visa based on business or management activities.

In other words, even if a Business Manager visa holder has a three-year or five-year period of stay, they will not be eligible for permanent residency if their company still follows the old criteria (for example, capital of 5 million yen).

Therefore, for those wishing to stay in Japan long-term, continue their business activities, and ultimately obtain permanent residency, it is essential not only to renew for a longer period of stay but also to strategically manage the business so that it fully meets the new standards.

8-3. Tips for Obtaining a Five-Year Period of Stay

By meeting the following conditions, it may be possible to obtain a five-year period of stay when renewing your Business Manager Visa.

• Properly submitting all notifications required under the Immigration Control Act, such as changes of address or employer
• Having a clear plan to stay in Japan for more than three years
• Having a child of compulsory education age who is enrolled in a school (including international schools)
• Being employed by a stable organization such as a listed company or a local government, or currently holding a three-year Business Manager Visa and continuing business management activities for five years or more
• Maintaining stable business operations and financial performance

If you already hold permanent residency, you can become a business owner without needing a Business Manager Visa. You will also no longer be subject to restrictions on your activities in Japan.

8-4. Key Points to Check When Renewing the Duration of Stay

When renewing the duration of stay, please confirm the following points

• Being able to demonstrate the stability and continuity of the business
• Having no record of tax delinquency or criminal penalties
• Having fully fulfilled all public financial obligations, including taxes and social insurance contributions
• Maintaining actual business activities within Japan (be cautious about extended stays abroad)

Business Stability and Continuity are Crucial

For those considering the renewal of their Business Manager Visa (status of residence “Business Manager”), it is essential to pay attention to the “stability and continuity of the business,” which is particularly emphasized by the Immigration Services Agency. Here are the main criteria.

Is there business revenue?

Is there no excessive debt (positive net assets)? Is the company paying taxes such as corporate tax, corporate enterprise tax, and corporate resident tax? These elements are carefully evaluated from the financial statements when renewing the Business Manager Visa.

Check the income statement and balance sheet

In the visa renewal review, the income statement and balance sheet of the Japanese corporation (or Japanese branch) managed by the foreigner are crucial. These documents are used to assess the stability and continuity of the business.

Even if the financial results for a single fiscal year (the first term) are in the red, it does not necessarily mean that the visa cannot be renewed. Especially for certain business models, it is common for the first term after the establishment of the company to be unprofitable. Therefore, the Immigration Services Agency comprehensively evaluates the overall business situation based on the income statement and balance sheet. However, if gross profit cannot be recorded for two consecutive terms or if there is an excessive debt situation for two consecutive terms, it is often judged that the business lacks continuity. If these conditions persist for a long time, it indicates a serious management crisis, making visa renewal more difficult.

Normally, the renewal period for a Business Manager Visa is one year. However, if your company has recorded a surplus for two or more consecutive fiscal years, it may be possible to renew the visa for three years. In such cases, immigration authorities make a comprehensive assessment based on factors such as the manager’s background, residence status, and the company’s size and business performance.

Regarding Executive Compensation for the Representative

In the renewal review of the Business Manager Visa, the economic stability of the manager themselves is also considered. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid setting the representative’s executive compensation extremely low for the sake of cost reduction. It is recommended to secure an amount of around 200,000 yen per month.

No Tax Delinquencies or Criminal Convictions

When renewing a visa, compliance with various public obligations, including tax payments, is essential. It is crucial to properly pay personal income tax and resident tax. Additionally, any past criminal convictions will be considered during the visa renewal process.

The Immigration Services Agency places great importance on the applicant’s credibility when renewing a visa. Therefore, if there is a history of criminal convictions, it may be judged that the applicant has low credibility, making visa renewal more difficult.

Fully fulfilling all obligations related to public dues, including taxes and social insurance contributions

When renewing your visa, compliance with various public obligations—most notably tax payments—will be examined more strictly than ever before. It is essential to ensure that there are no omissions or delays not only in your personal taxes but also in all of the following obligations required of your company.

Status of labor insurance coverage

• Whether the procedures for acquiring employee eligibility under employment insurance have been properly completed
• Whether employment insurance premiums have been correctly paid
• Whether procedures for workers’ compensation insurance coverage have been carried out

Status of social insurance coverage

• Whether the procedures for acquiring insured status under health insurance and employees’ pension insurance have been properly completed
• Whether the corresponding social insurance premiums have been correctly paid

Status of national and local tax payments

• For corporations: Withholding income tax, corporate tax, consumption tax, corporate inhabitant tax, and corporate enterprise tax, etc.
• For sole proprietors: Withholding income tax, income tax return payments, consumption tax, individual inhabitant tax, and individual enterprise tax, etc.

Failure to fulfill even one of these payment obligations may be regarded as a lack of reliability in business operations and can become a major reason for visa renewal being denied.

Maintaining actual business activities within Japan (be cautious about extended stays abroad)

The Business Manager Visa is a residence status granted for conducting business management activities in Japan. Therefore, if you leave Japan for an extended period without a valid reason during your stay, it may be considered that there is “no actual business activity in Japan,” which could result in your visa renewal being denied.

It is a fundamental requirement for renewal that you reside in Japan, maintain your business base here, and demonstrate that you are actively engaged in management activities.

9. Summary

In this article, we have explained the key points to understand when applying for a Business Manager Visa, taking into account the legal revisions implemented in October 2025.

To summarize, the main points are as follows:

✓　The Business Management Visa is necessary when starting a business in Japan or when planning to stay for a mid to long term as a manager or administrator of an existing business. ✓　Foreign nationals with statuses of ‘Permanent Resident’, ‘Spouse or Child of a Japanese National’, ‘Spouse or Child of a Permanent Resident’, or ‘Long-Term Resident’ can manage a company in Japan without obtaining a Business Management Visa. ✓Due to the legal amendment on October 16, 2025, the eligibility requirements for obtaining a Business Manager Visa were significantly tightened. Applicants must now meet all of the following conditions: Have paid-in capital of at least 30 million yen; Employ at least one full-time staff member; Submit a business plan verified by a qualified professional; Possess at least three years of management experience or hold a master’s degree (or higher); and Demonstrate Japanese language proficiency. ✓When obtaining a Business Manager Visa as a manager rather than a company founder, the same requirements as those for entrepreneurs generally apply. ✓Even if a company has multiple foreign executives, it does not guarantee that all of them can obtain a Business Management Visa. ✓The initial residency period for a Business Management Visa is one year, but if the requirements are met at the time of renewal, extensions of three years, five years, or more may be granted. ✓When renewing a Business Manager Visa, in addition to business stability, factors such as proper payment of taxes and social insurance contributions, as well as the applicant’s record of residence in Japan, are now being examined more strictly than before.

While it is possible to establish a company in Japan without a Business Manager Visa, this visa (or another appropriate status of residence, such as permanent residency) is essential for those who wish to stay in Japan mid- to long-term as business owners and receive remuneration for their activities.

Following the recent legal revision, obtaining a Business Manager Visa has become significantly more demanding, limited to only a select group of entrepreneurs who possess sufficient financial resources, proven management experience, and a highly feasible business plan.

As the procedures have become far more complex and the level of documentation required has increased, it is strongly recommended to consult a qualified professional at an early stage and prepare strategically for the application.

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