What is the Renewal of the Business Manager Visa Japan? Explanation of Conditions, Required Documents, and Tips for Extending the Period of Stay

Among the many types of visas, the Business Manager Visa is said to have particularly stringent screening. After a foreign national invests and establishes a company in Japan, the initial period of stay for the Business Manager Visa is generally one year. Therefore, if you do not proceed with management with an eye on visa renewal, the period of stay may be shortened or approval may not be granted.

The key points of this article are as follows.

✓ From October 16, 2025, the new requirements for obtaining a Business Manager Visa have been significantly tightened — applicants must have a capital of at least 30 million yen, employ at least one full-time staff member, and possess either more than three years of management experience or a relevant academic background. In addition, the applicant or a full-time employee must have sufficient Japanese language proficiency (such as JLPT N2 or higher). Renewal examinations are also expected to be reviewed more strictly under the new standards. ✓The Business Manager Visa has six types of periods of stay: “3 months,” “4 months,” “6 months,” “1 year,” “3 years,” and “5 years.” ✓If a period of stay of 3 years is granted, the next step in sight is applying for a permanent residence visa. ✓The Business Manager Visa has stricter screening for renewal compared to other visas. ✓There are three conditions for renewing a Business Manager Visa: (1) The applicant personally complies with notification obligations and other requirements, (2) The business entity (company) fulfills its obligations, and (3) Stable business continuity is expected. ✓The documents required for renewing a Business Manager Visa vary depending on the situation. ✓The stability of the business and the presence of employee employment over the past two years are benchmarks for obtaining a 3-year Business Manager Visa. ✓To obtain a 3-year Business Manager Visa, it is important to submit a statement of reasons for the renewal and carefully craft its content.

This article summarizes the important points for renewing the Business Manager Visa and what needs to be done to extend the period of stay from one year to three years. It also explains key points to know in order to be granted a long-term period of stay.

Understand the screening requirements for the Business Manager Visa and prepare systematically.

1.Renewal of a Business Manager Visa Japan for Foreigners

For foreign nationals operating a business in Japan, renewing a Business Manager Visa is essential for the continuation of their business. If the renewal is not granted, the foreign national will no longer be able to stay in Japan and continue their business activities.

The renewal of a Business Manager Visa is said to be particularly challenging compared to other residence statuses. At the time of renewal, the same strict criteria as the initial application are applied, and in addition, the applicant’s business performance and management structure are carefully reviewed. The Immigration Bureau evaluates the applicant’s eligibility based on factors such as the stability and growth potential of the business, the establishment of an appropriate management system, compliance with Japanese laws and regulations, as well as the level of job creation and overall economic contribution.

Therefore, to successfully renew the visa, it is essential to steadily implement the business plan and accumulate achievements, conduct proper accounting and tax filing, and meticulously prepare all required documentation.

[Enacted on October 16, 2025]New System for the Business Manager Visa and Stricter Office Requirements

On October 16, 2025, the requirements for obtaining a Business Manager Visa were tightened. The minimum capital requirement was raised to 30 million yen, and hiring at least one full-time employee became mandatory, making it necessary to operate a business of substantial scale. Other requirements are explained in detail in the article below, so we recommend taking a look.

1-1. The Initial Period of Stay for a Business Manager Visa Is Generally One Year

The periods of stay for a Business Manager Visa are divided into five categories: “3 months or 4 months,” “6 months,” “1 year,” “3 years,” and “5 years.” When obtaining a Business Manager Visa for the first time, the period of stay is generally one year.

The financial results of the company being managed are a major factor that significantly affects the renewal of a Business Manager Visa. If the business can demonstrate a stable and profitable operation over a certain period, there is a higher likelihood of being granted a period of stay of three years or more.

Because the outcome of a visa renewal is influenced by the business’s current performance, it is highly desirable to secure the longest possible period of stay. If a period of stay of three years or more can be obtained upon renewal, the path toward applying for permanent residency becomes clearer.

1-2. The 4-Month Business Manager Visa (Startup Visa) Requires Renewal After Company Incorporation

The periods of stay for a Business Manager Visa are divided into five categories: “3 months or 4 months,” “6 months,” “1 year,” “3 years,” and “5 years.” When obtaining a Business Manager Visa for the first time, the period of stay is generally one year.

The financial results of the company being managed are a major factor that significantly affects the renewal of a Business Manager Visa. If the business can demonstrate a stable and profitable operation over a certain period, there is a higher likelihood of being granted a period of stay of three years or more.

Because the outcome of a visa renewal is influenced by the business’s current performance, it is highly desirable to secure the longest possible period of stay. If a period of stay of three years or more can be obtained upon renewal, the path toward applying for permanent residency becomes clearer.

2.Conditions for Renewing a Business Manager Visa Japan

It is said that renewing a Business Manager Visa is more difficult compared to other visas because the same level of conditions required for initial acquisition must be met. The main conditions for renewing a Business Manager Visa are as follows:

• The applicant has properly complied with notification obligations and other requirements.
• The business entity has fulfilled its obligations.
• Stable business continuity is expected.

Review the details of each condition and prepare for the renewal of the Business Manager Visa.

2-1. The applicant personally complies with notification obligations and other requirements.

If the applicant wishes to renew or obtain a visa, there are several obligations that must be fulfilled as a prerequisite. Among these, particular attention should be paid to the proper performance of various reporting obligations and tax obligations.

Fulfillment of various reporting obligations

As a matter of course, when staying in Japan as a foreigner, the applicant must properly comply with the reporting obligations under the Immigration Control Act. This includes, for example, registering their address after newly arriving in Japan, and procedures for changing the address if the company or representative director’s address changes.

The applicant’s personal tax obligations

Whether the applicant is correctly fulfilling their tax obligations is a significant factor in the visa review process. It is important to note that tax obligations here include not only taxes as a company or corporation but also taxes on the applicant’s personal income. If, due to carelessness or misunderstanding, the applicant fails to pay these taxes, it could become a major obstacle during subsequent visa renewals.

2-2. Fulfilling the obligations of the business (company)

In the renewal of a Business Manager Visa, not only the applicant’s personal conditions but also whether the responsibilities and obligations of the business (company) are being properly adhered to are significant points of examination.

Establishment and independence of the business office

Visa holders need to secure an appropriate and independent business office. “Appropriate” here means a location that is permanently utilized, not a temporary contract or provisional place. If it is the same office as during the previous visa acquisition or renewal, there should be no issue. However, if the office has relocated, the new office’s independence will need to be reviewed. In addition to the generally required documents, be sure to submit the lease agreement, floor plan, and photos of the new office. Ensure that the office lease is in the company’s name, and pay the rent using a method that leaves a verifiable record, such as a bank transfer.

Company’s tax affairs and tax payment status

Business operators are required to pay the necessary taxes timely and appropriately based on the Japanese tax system. This includes corporate tax, income tax, and local taxes, so it is important to prepare and maintain proof of declarations and tax payments.

Social insurance for employees, etc.

If you employ staff, it is required that they are appropriately enrolled in the respective social insurance programs. This applies to both regular and non-regular employees. Additionally, it is essential to ensure employee welfare in compliance with relevant laws such as the Labor Standards Act, Health Insurance, and Welfare Pension Insurance.

In particular, foreigners holding a “Business Manager” visa need to properly fulfill not only the tax obligations of their own business but also the company’s obligations. Even for a one-person company, proper enrollment in social insurance is necessary, so caution is needed. Especially when hiring foreign employees, consulting with a social insurance and labor consultant can facilitate smooth procedures.

2-3. Stable business continuity is expected

Lastly, an essential requirement that must not be overlooked is the stability of the business. If the company you operate has a positive financial balance and maintains steady sales, there is no need for excessive concern.

When considering the renewal of a Business Manager Visa, the primary focus is on the financial condition of the business managed by the foreigner. The stability and sustainability of the business are assessed based on the profit and loss statement and balance sheet. However, the Immigration Bureau does not solely emphasize the financial results of the first year when determining the renewal of the Business Manager Visa. In reality, it is not uncommon for a business to incur a loss in its first year due to its nature. Therefore, the content of the financial statements, including recent sales figures, the status of excess debt, and the presence of any deficits, are considered as evaluation criteria.

Steady sales

The presence of sales is clear evidence that the business is ongoing. However, if sales are below 3 million yen or not commensurate with the business, the actual existence of the business will need to be verified. In such cases, it is recommended to submit a business report for the past year and a business plan based on projections for the next three years.

Gross profit

If gross profit is not recorded for two consecutive periods, the continuity of the business is called into question. Gross profit refers to the profit (gross profit) obtained by subtracting the cost of sales from the total sales. If this is negative, the business is considered to be in a difficult situation, making renewal challenging.

Therefore, without a clear management plan to record gross profit, renewing the Business Manager Visa can become difficult, requiring careful measures.

Excess of debt

If the “net assets” on the balance sheet are displayed as negative, the company is considered to be in a state of excess debt. A single fiscal deficit is not a cause for renewal refusal, but the circumstances and reasons behind it, as well as future prospects, are taken into account.

However, by providing expert opinions and specific business plans, you can demonstrate the continuity of the business. In such cases, it is necessary to accurately understand the business’s condition and formulate improvement measures together with experts.

If the state of excess debt continues for two consecutive periods, it is often judged that the business lacks continuity, so caution is necessary.

お問い合わせはこちら

2-4. Other considerations when renewing a Business Manager Visa Japan

Here are some points that are often overlooked when renewing a Business Manager Visa. Make sure to make any necessary changes before renewal.

Manage funds through a bank account in the company’s name.

Create a bank account in the company’s name and manage business-related funds through that account. If you were unable to open a bank account in the company’s name in the first year, manage business funds using the company president’s personal account, separating it from the living expenses account for business use.

Ensure that the registered head office address of the company and the address of the representative director are updated to the latest addresses.

If the head office address of the company or the address of the representative director on the residence card differs from the registered address of the company, make sure to update the registration beforehand.

Obtain the necessary permits and licenses for business activities in the company’s name.

If you are engaged in permit-required businesses such as real estate, personnel dispatch, or antique sales, you must obtain all necessary permits and licenses in the company’s name.

Contact

3.Required Documents for Management Visa Japan Renewal

To ensure a smooth renewal process for the Management Visa, it is important to check the required documents in advance. The Management Visa is divided into categories 1 to 4, depending on the affiliated organization.

This time, we will explain the required documents for the common “Category 3” as an example. It is essential to know not only the basic documents but also the content and points to note of the case-specific documents that should be submitted if applicable.

3-1. Commonly Required Documents

The required documents for Category 3 are as follows:

• Application form for Extension of Period of Stay
• Passport-sized photograph
• A copy of the statutory report summary table (with receipt stamp) of the previous year’s employee salary income withholding slips, etc.
• A copy of the most recent fiscal year’s financial documents
• Certificate of taxation (or non-taxation) and tax payment certificate for resident tax

The financial documents for the most recent fiscal year specifically refer to the income statement, balance sheet, manufacturing cost report, statement of changes in shareholders’ equity, and detailed statement of selling, general, and administrative expenses.

3-2.Required Documents for Each Case

In addition to the basic documents, additional documents need to be submitted in the following cases:

• When the office is relocated
• When executive compensation is increased
• When the number of employees increases

We will explain the specific required documents and points to note for each case.

When the Office is Relocated:

If you relocate your office after obtaining or renewing a Business Management Visa, you will need to undergo a review to ensure that the new office meets the requirements. The documents to be submitted are as follows:

• Certified copy of the registration after the head office relocation
• Lease agreement for the new office
• Photos
• Floor plan

Additionally, be sure to promptly register the head office relocation and notify the immigration office within two weeks after the office move.

When Executive Compensation is Increased

Executive compensation is one of the factors used to assess the company’s management status. If executive compensation is reduced too much in an effort to quickly stabilize the business, it might raise suspicions about whether one can live comfortably in Japan.

Since this can be disadvantageous when renewing a Business Management Visa, it is advisable to set executive compensation at a minimum of 200,000 yen per month. Conversely, if executive compensation is increased, it can serve as a means to demonstrate the company’s financial stability.

Submit the minutes of the shareholders’ meeting to facilitate the renewal of the Business Management Visa.

When the Number of Employees Increases

In business types such as restaurants or nail salons, it is necessary to secure employees who actually prepare food or provide services. When renewing a Business Management Visa, if it becomes difficult to secure employees, there is a high possibility of the visa being denied.

On the other hand, if the number of employees increases, it can serve as evidence that the business is stable. Be sure to submit the relevant documents when renewing your visa.

The documents to be submitted are as follows:

• Employment contracts with employees
• Withholding tax receipts for all employees (with the tax office’s acceptance stamp)
• Proof of social insurance enrollment (such as social insurance premium notices)

4.What Are the Tips for Getting a “3-Year” Business Management Visa Japan?

If you are granted a 3-year or 5-year Business Management Visa, it can be the first step towards applying for a permanent residency visa. Here are some tips for obtaining a 3-year visa:

• The business has been stable for the past two years
• Employees are hired

Unless you are running a well-known or large-scale company, it is currently difficult to obtain a long-term Business Management Visa. To be granted a 3-year visa, you need to strategically plan and manage your business with future visa renewals in mind.

4-1. The business has been stable for the past two years

If the business has consistently generated a certain level of profit and there is no excess debt over the past two years, the likelihood of obtaining a 3-year Business Management Visa increases. Business stability is a crucial point for being granted a stay period of three years or more.

Ideally, the business should be running at a profit, but strategies such as reducing executive compensation to inflate apparent profits are not recommended. If executive compensation is set too low, it may raise suspicions about the company’s management.

Additionally, it is necessary to fulfill basic obligations required of a manager, such as paying various taxes and ensuring employees are enrolled in social insurance.

4-2. Employees are hired

The second tip for being granted a 3-year Business Management Visa is hiring employees. The presence of employees is confirmed by the employment insurance office number.

However, hiring employees is not mandatory for obtaining a 3-year Business Management Visa. Even if the company does not have employees, if it can prove that the business is continuing stably, there is a possibility of being granted a stay period of three years or more.

For example, if the company generates over 100 million yen in sales, it is likely to be considered stable even as a one-person company. If necessary, it is also advisable to prepare documents such as patent or trademark certificates, and contracts or invoices from reputable business partners.

5.Creating a Renewal Reason Statement for Obtaining a 3-Year Business Management Visa　Japan

To obtain a 3-year Business Management Visa, it is important to create a renewal reason statement and specifically detail the reasons for the renewal. Although a renewal reason statement is not a mandatory document for the renewal of a Business Management Visa, submitting it can increase the likelihood of being granted a longer stay period.

Even if you fulfill your duties as a manager and maintain stable business operations, it can still be challenging to obtain a 3-year Business Management Visa. In such cases, carefully crafting the content of the renewal reason statement can help in being granted a longer stay period.

The contents that should be included in the renewal reason statement are as follows:

• Description of the manager’s job: Provide evidence of ongoing management activities.
• Medium to long-term business plan: Prepare a plan for about three years.
• Current ratio (current assets ÷ current liabilities): The benchmark varies by industry, but generally 200% or higher is considered good.
• Information about stable business partners: Include the names of partners, the duration of business relationships, annual transaction amounts, details of transactions, and an overview of the partners.

6.Conclusion

In this article, we introduced key points that foreign nationals should know when renewing their Business Management Visa. The summary is as follows:

✓ From October 16, 2025, the new requirements for obtaining a Business Manager Visa have been significantly tightened — applicants must have a capital of at least 30 million yen, employ at least one full-time staff member, and possess either more than three years of management experience or a relevant academic background. In addition, the applicant or a full-time employee must have sufficient Japanese language proficiency (such as JLPT N2 or higher). Renewal examinations are also expected to be reviewed more strictly under the new standards. ✓The Business Manager Visa has six types of periods of stay: “3 months,” “4 months,” “6 months,” “1 year,” “3 years,” and “5 years.” ✓If a period of stay of 3 years is granted, the next step in sight is applying for a permanent residence visa. ✓The Business Manager Visa has stricter screening for renewal compared to other visas. ✓There are three conditions for renewing a Business Manager Visa: (1) The applicant personally complies with notification obligations and other requirements, (2) The business entity (company) fulfills its obligations, and (3) Stable business continuity is expected. ✓The documents required for renewing a Business Manager Visa vary depending on the situation. ✓The stability of the business and the presence of employee employment over the past two years are benchmarks for obtaining a 3-year Business Manager Visa. ✓To obtain a 3-year Business Manager Visa, it is important to submit a statement of reasons for the renewal and carefully craft its content.

If you need to renew your visa during a period of temporary financial difficulty, it may be challenging to pass the review. Obtaining a 3-year Business Management Visa can pave the way for applying for a permanent residency visa.

If it is difficult to prepare for the visa renewal on your own, seeking the help of experts who have the necessary know-how is one option.

Contact