【2025 Update】Japan’s Business Manager Visa: Requirements and Failure

For foreign entrepreneurs who wish to establish a company and start a business in Japan, the “Business Manager Visa” is the key to realizing their dreams. However, the common knowledge that “obtaining the Business Manager Visa is difficult” has become an undeniable truth due to the legal revision of October 16, 2025.

“What exactly is required under the new rules?”

“Are the old standards no longer applicable?”

“Can I truly acquire the visa even if I prepare now?”

In this article, we will directly address the anxieties and questions foreign entrepreneurs have about the new system. An expert will provide a thorough explanation, focusing on the following key points:

✓The Business Manager Visa is an essential residence status that allows foreign nationals to run or manage a business in Japan. ✓The biggest reason the Business Manager Visa has become “extremely difficult” is the significant stricter requirements that came into effect on October 16, 2025. ✓The former requirement of “5 million yen in capital” has been replaced by the mandatory requirement of “30 million yen in capital + employment of one full-time staff member.” The “no academic background required” rule has changed to require a minimum of “three years of management experience or a Master’s degree.” ✓The business plan must now undergo mandatory pre-confirmation by a specialist, such as a Certified Small and Medium Enterprise Management Consultant (Chusho Kigyo診断士), significantly raising the level of scrutiny. ✓When choosing a specialist, it is paramount that they accurately understand these latest legal revisions and have a proven track record of providing a comprehensive, one-stop service.

Through this article, we will thoroughly explain the reality of the Business Manager Visa’s “new difficulty” and the specific points necessary to overcome it.

1.Business Manager Visa Japan: What Is It? Explaining the Residence Status Required for Foreign Entrepreneurs

First, let’s deepen our understanding of the basic “Business Manager Visa.” This residence status is required for foreign nationals who wish to operate or manage a business in Japan. Its official name is “Management and Administration,” but it is commonly referred to as the “Business Manager Visa” or, under its former name, the “Investor/Business Manager Visa.”

1-1. Business Manager Visa Japan—When You Need It and Why It’s Crucial

When exactly is a Business Manager Visa Japan required, and why is it so important? Typical scenarios include:

• Establishing a new company in Japan and becoming its executive (e.g., representative director)
• Assuming an executive position in an existing Japanese company or succeeding its business
• Serving as a manager (department head, plant manager, etc.) responsible for overseeing a Japanese company’s operations
• Opening a branch office in Japan and acting as its representative or manager
• Starting a business as a sole proprietor in Japan (though the requirements are generally stricter)

Obtaining a Business Manager Visa is, in principle, indispensable for engaging in these activities. Operating a business without the proper residence status constitutes unauthorized employment and can result in severe penalties, including deportation. In other words, this visa is your “entry ticket” to conducting business legally in Japan, and its importance cannot be overstated.

1-2. Business Manager Visa Japan—Key Benefits

Obtaining a Business Manager Visa Japan offers the following benefits.

• Legal business operations: You can openly run and manage your own enterprise in Japan.
• Possibility of long-term stay: If your business remains stable, you can renew the visa and reside in Japan for 1, 3, or 5 years at a time. To apply for permanent residence, you generally need to live in Japan for at least 10 consecutive years (or 5 years with a work-related status) and hold the visa’s longest period (3 or 5 years). Permanent residence cannot be requested during the initial 1-year period, so sustained, stable management is essential.
• Family reunion: You can bring your spouse and children to Japan under “Dependent” visas and live together.
• Enhanced credibility: Possessing an official residence status boosts your business’s credibility with banks and partners, facilitating loans and contracts.
• Focus on your business: With immigration matters settled, you can dedicate your full attention to your venture.

Thus, the Business Manager Visa is indispensable for launching a business and building a stable life in Japan.

2.5 Reasons Why Japan’s Business Manager Visa Has Become “Extremely Difficult”

Why has the acquisition of the Business Manager Visa become so difficult? The reasons are summarized in the following five new requirements, which were introduced by the legal revision on October 16, 2025.

2-1.The standards required for the business foundation have been significantly raised (Mandatory capital of 30 million yen + employment of one full-time staff member).

The biggest change lies in the requirements concerning the scale of the business. The previous option of “5 million yen in capital OR two full-time employees” has been completely abolished. It is now mandatory to satisfy both “capital of 30 million yen or more” AND “the employment of at least one full-time staff member.” This is a clear message demanding a much higher level of seriousness and stability from the business.

Capital

When preparing the funds using personal capital, it may be necessary to explain the source and formation process of that capital. As of March 2024, payments for compensatory stock acquisition rights (warrant) can also be included in the stated capital. This means that it is no longer absolutely necessary to prepare $30$ million yen in cash, allowing for more flexible fundraising. However, since the issuance and payment for stock acquisition rights require procedures under the Companies Act, we recommend consulting a specialist.

Full-time Employees

At the time of the visa application, it is required that you have already executed the employment contract and are proceeding with procedures such as enrollment in social insurance. There are conditions regarding who can be hired as this “full-time staff member,” and it is limited to persons who fall under one of the following categories:

• Japanese nationals
• Special Permanent Residents
• Foreign nationals holding one of the following statuses of residence: “Permanent Resident,” “Spouse or Child of a Japanese National,” “Spouse or Child of a Permanent Resident,” or “Long-Term Resident.”

Note: Foreign nationals working under a work visa such as “Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services” are not counted toward this mandatory full-time staff member requirement.

2-2. Reason 2: Entrepreneurial “Qualification” is Required for the First Time (Work History/Academic Background Requirement)

It is now mandatory to objectively prove the applicant’s own ability as a business manager, a factor that was not required under the former system. Specifically, the applicant must demonstrate either “three or more years of experience in business management or administration” or “a Master’s degree or higher in business administration or a related field” using official documents. This means that, in principle, new entry by individuals without management experience has become impossible.

2-3. Reason 3: Business Plan Review is Elevated to “Assessment by Specialists”

The feasibility of the business plan is strictly scrutinized, as before, but the review method has significantly changed. The business plan prepared by the applicant is now mandated to be reviewed and confirmed (given official approval) for its feasibility by a specialist holding a national qualification, such as a Certified Small and Medium Enterprise Management Consultant, Certified Public Accountant, or Tax Accountant. Plans with overly optimistic projections that fail to convince these professionals will not be accepted as valid application documents.

This document serves to explain the specific details of the business to be conducted in Japan, revenue forecasts, financing plans, clients, personnel plans, and more, proving to the Immigration Bureau, based on objective evidence, that “the business will be stable and sustainable in Japan.”

It is required that the plan is not merely a pipe dream but a highly feasible plan based on market research, that it includes concrete numerical targets and the strategy to achieve them, and that the revenue and expenditure plan is reasonable. Applicants must persuasively demonstrate why they are conducting this business in Japan, how they will generate profit, and what preparations they have made to do so.

Furthermore, as previously mentioned, the applicant’s own management experience and related skills are also given significant weight. Applicants must prove, through their resume (work history) and related documents, that they possess the capability to execute the business plan. If starting a business in an inexperienced field, it will be necessary to explain, in detail, why that business was chosen and what preparations and studies have been undertaken to ensure its success.

2-4. Reason 4: Requirements Regarding the Existence and Authenticity of the Business Office Have Been Stricter

The securing of a physical base for conducting business is also subject to stricter review. Notably, combining the business office with a private residence is, in principle, no longer permitted. The existence of an independent office space dedicated solely to the business is required more strongly than ever before.

Proof of an independent business office must be provided through documents such as the lease agreement. Temporary rental spaces or easily movable stalls (such as yatai) are, in principle, not accepted. This requirement is intended to demonstrate the stability and sustainability of the business.

2-5. Reason 5: The Ability to Smoothly Execute Business in Japan is Now Required (Japanese Language Proficiency)

A new requirement mandates that either the applicant themselves or the full-time staff member they hire must possess Japanese language proficiency equivalent to JLPT N2 or higher (Japanese Language Proficiency Test N2). This requirement is designed to demonstrate the minimum communication ability necessary to smoothly operate a business within Japan.

The difficulty in obtaining the Business Manager Visa is also significantly linked to both the complexity of the procedures themselves and the language barrier faced by many foreign nationals.

The Extensive Preparation of Application Documents and the Complexity of Administrative Procedures

A considerable number of documents must be prepared for the Business Manager Visa application. The main required documents include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Application for Certificate of Eligibility (or Application for Change of Status of Residence)
• Photo
• Business Plan Confirmed by a Specialist
• Copy of the Articles of Incorporation
• Certificate of All Registered Matters (Corporate Registration Certificate)
• Shareholder Register
• Company Profile (Including company name, history, officers, organization, and business details (including major clients and transaction results))Note: A printed copy of the company overview page from the website may be substituted.
• Documents proving the payment of stated capital (e.g., copy of bank passbook)
• Copy of the office lease agreement, photos, floor plans, etc.
• Most recent financial statements (for businesses already operating)
• Copy of the Notification of Establishment of a Salary-Paying Office (or similar)
• Withholding tax ledger and Statutory Records Total Table (if employing full-time staff)
• Applicant’s resume (CV), graduation certificate, certificate of work history, etc.
• Documents concerning the full-time staff member: Documents related to wage payment, Certificate of Residence (Juminhyo), employment contract or letter of intent (offer letter), etc.
• Copy of permits or licenses proving the status of necessary business authorization (if applicable)
• Other documents that may be required additionally, depending on the business content and circumstances

The preparation of these documents, completely and accurately, is an arduous task in itself. Furthermore, in most cases, the process of company establishment (such as Articles of Incorporation notarization and registration application) is required prior to the visa application stage, necessitating coordination with other administrative bodies, such as the Legal Affairs Bureau. These procedures are interrelated and must be carried out in the correct sequence and timing

The Burden of Document Creation and Official Procedures in Japanese.

Many of the application documents must be prepared in Japanese, often utilizing official formats and specialized terminology. Documents like the business plan require the applicant to express their thoughts accurately and logically in Japanese. For foreign nationals who are not native Japanese speakers, this can become a significant burden.

Furthermore, communication with the Immigration Bureau, where applications are submitted, and the Legal Affairs Bureau, where company establishment procedures are handled, is fundamentally conducted in Japanese. Should there be questions, clarifications, or requests for additional documents, applicants must accurately understand the content and respond appropriately. There is also the risk of misunderstandings or procedural delays arising due to the language barrier.

It is the combined effect of these “stricter requirements,” “complex procedures,” and “the language barrier” that has solidified the perception that “obtaining the Business Manager Visa is difficult.”

Contact

3.Business Manager Visa Japan—Concerns and Questions for Foreign Entrepreneurs

The legal revision in October 2025 has significantly changed the environment surrounding the Business Manager Visa. Consequently, the anxieties and questions held by foreign entrepreneurs aiming to start a business in Japan have also shifted, becoming more serious and specific. Here, we will delve into five specific anxieties that have become particularly common.

3-1. “Do I Even Qualify to Apply?” — Fundamental Anxiety Regarding Work History/Academic Background Requirements

The biggest anxiety is a fundamental one concerning qualification itself: “Can I even stand at the starting line for the application?” Under the former system, academic background or professional history was not scrutinized, meaning there was an aspect of “anyone with a good business idea and capital could try.”

However, the new system has added “three or more years of management or administration experience” or “a Master’s degree or higher in a related field” as an absolute requirement. As a result, even those with an excellent business plan cannot even submit the application documents if their own professional history does not meet this standard. This presents a serious anxiety, particularly for those whose experience is rich in practical fields like engineers and designers but lack management history, or for young talent who had intended to start a business immediately after graduation: the feeling that “the entry gate has been closed.”

3-2. “How Can I Prepare 30 Million Yen and Hire Staff?” — The Desperate Hurdle of Capital and Employment

The next wave of concern is the issue of capital and employment. The goal of “5 million yen in capital” was a realistic target that could often be achieved through personal savings or loans from relatives. However, “30 million yen in capital“—six times that amount—is an enormous sum for an individual, especially one who is just starting a business overseas, to prepare at this stage.

Furthermore, the new system mandates “the employment of at least one full-time staff member.” This means taking on a heavy fixed cost in the form of personnel expenses, including social insurance premiums, even before the business is on track. It is understandable that many feel this is impossible when faced with the desperate hurdle of having to clear two of the most difficult challenges in business operations—fundraising and securing personnel—before the business even begins.

3-3. “Is My Business Plan Good Enough for Expert Approval?” — Pressure on the Quality of the Plan

While the business plan has always been important, the method of its evaluation has changed significantly. Previously, the plan needed only to “persuade” the Immigration Bureau examiner. However, under the new system, it is now mandatory, as a preliminary step, to “convince” a business professional—such as a Certified Small and Medium Enterprise Management Consultant, Certified Public Accountant, or Tax Accountant—and obtain their official approval (confirmation document).

This means that one’s business idea will be subjected to the rigorous assessment of a third party holding a public qualification. The immense pressure regarding the quality of the plan itself—”Is my plan too optimistic?” or “What if a specialist judges it to be unfeasible?”—weighs heavily on the applicant’s shoulders.

3-4. “How Can I Clear the Japanese Language Requirement?” — Specific Concerns About the Language Barrier

The idea that “even without fluent Japanese, you could still try if you had a good business and an interpreter” is now a thing of the past. The new system mandates that either the applicant themselves or the full-time staff member they hire must possess a high level of Japanese proficiency equivalent to JLPT N2 or higher.

Many business owners are proficient in business English but lack confidence in Japanese reading, writing, and business conversation. In such cases, they must hire a staff member who meets this requirement. However, it is not easy to find a person who is both “proficient in Japanese and possesses the necessary skills for the company’s business” at the pre-start-up stage. The “language barrier” has thus become a concrete and institutional obstacle.

3-5. “With This Level of Strictness, Can I Really Get the Visa?” — Despair Over the System and the Risk of Rejection

Facing these four high hurdles, the anxiety that many entrepreneurs share, which borders on despair over the system as a whole, is: “Even if I clear all these conditions, will the visa truly be granted?”

Since each requirement is extremely strict, there is a possibility that all efforts will be in vain if even one deficiency is pointed out, despite investing significant time, a large amount of money, and enormous effort in preparation. Given this fundamental risk of rejection, it is understandable that some feel they must reconsider their entire plan to start a business in Japan.

These anxieties and questions are shared by many foreign entrepreneurs aiming to acquire the Business Manager Visa. However, by accurately understanding the intent of the new system and implementing appropriate preparation and countermeasures for each requirement, it is entirely possible to find a path to overcome these challenges.

4.Key Points for Successfully Obtaining a Business Manager Visa in Japan

Although the Business Manager Visa is considered “difficult” to obtain, you can greatly increase your chances of success by preparing thoroughly and focusing on the key points. Here, we will explain the most important factors for success.

4-1. Thorough Preparation and Planning: Gather Required Documents and Meet Conditions in Advance

The key to success lies above all in careful advance preparation. Rather than proceeding haphazardly, it is important to prepare everything systematically and according to a plan.

Accurate Understanding and Confirmation of Business Manager Visa Requirements

First, make sure to accurately understand the requirements for obtaining a Business Manager Visa, such as capital, office, business plan, and applicant eligibility. Carefully consider whether your own situation meets these requirements, and if not, specifically plan how to fulfill them.

Listing and Early Preparation of Required Documents

A wide variety of documents are required for the application. Make a list in advance and prepare each one carefully. In particular, documents that need to be obtained from overseas, such as graduation certificates or certificates of employment, can take time to arrange, so start the process as early as possible.

Creating a Persuasive Business Plan

The business plan is the core of the screening process. It should describe in detail, based on objective data and evidence, why you are pursuing this business, how you will generate revenue, where the market needs lie, and what your concrete action plan is. It is important to ensure that the plan demonstrates feasibility and continuity, rather than being merely theoretical. The financial plan must also be realistic.

Funding Plan and Office Search

You should start preparing your capital (including transfer methods and proof of funds) and selecting and contracting an office that meets the requirements as early as possible. Especially for the office, it is necessary to confirm that the contract details meet the visa application requirements (for example, that the purpose is listed as “office,” and that the contract period is not too short).

If you neglect these preparations, deficiencies may be discovered at the application stage, leading to significant losses of time and energy.

4-2. Smooth Simultaneous Progress of Visa Application and Company Registration

As mentioned earlier, the Business Manager Visa application and company incorporation (corporate registration) are closely linked. The general process includes:

• Developing a business plan and securing an office
• Drafting and certifying Articles of Incorporation (for stock companies)
• Depositing capital funds
• Submitting the company registration application to the Legal Affairs Bureau
• Obtaining the Certificate of Registered Matters
• Applying for the Business Manager Visa at Immigration

To ensure smooth progress, it is essential to understand the time required for each step, the necessary documents, and to manage the schedule with coordination in mind. For example, if the office location is not finalized, the head office address in the Articles of Incorporation cannot be determined, making registration impossible. Similarly, without completing registration, you cannot obtain the Certificate of Registered Matters or proceed with the visa application.

Key areas requiring attention include the timing of capital deposits, methods for proving funds, and preparing registration documents—all of which often require specialized knowledge. Missteps in coordinating these steps may lead to unnecessary delays and complications.

4-3. Keeping Up-to-Date with the Latest Legal Regulations and Taking Appropriate Measures

Immigration laws, related regulations, and screening criteria may change in response to shifts in social conditions. Relying on outdated information when preparing your application could result in failure to meet current requirements.

It is critical to consistently gather the latest information and adapt your approach accordingly. For example, screening may become stricter for specific industries, or additional documents may be required. To avoid unexpected rejection risks, obtain updates from reliable sources (e.g., Immigration Bureau websites, legal experts) and respond appropriately.

For those starting a business in Japan for the first time or facing language barriers, managing all these points independently can be extremely challenging. This is why leveraging professional support is often an effective strategy.

Contact

5.How Foreign Entrepreneurs Should Choose a Specialist for Business Manager Visa Japan Services

Applying for a Business Manager Visa is a complex process, and many foreign entrepreneurs consider seeking support from specialists. However, it can be difficult to decide which expert to trust. Here, we explain the key points for choosing a reliable professional. Use these guidelines to find the best partner for your situation.

5-1. Can You Request Both Visa Application and Company Establishment as a One-Stop Service?

In most cases, obtaining a Business Manager Visa requires completing the company establishment process first. While visa applications fall under the expertise of an administrative scrivener (gyoseishoshi) and company registration is handled by a judicial scrivener (shihoshoshi), if you hire these professionals separately, there is a risk of poor coordination and delays in procedures.

Ideally, you should choose an office that provides comprehensive support from visa application through company establishment as a one-stop service. With such a service, you do not have to communicate with multiple specialists yourself, making the entire process more efficient and ensuring smooth information sharing, which helps prevent contradictions or omissions.

Even if an office advertises one-stop service, the level of coordination can vary. Be sure to confirm that the administrative and judicial scriveners work closely together internally and can proceed with the procedures according to an optimal schedule tailored to your situation. A support system that combines the expertise of each professional provides greater peace of mind.

5-2. Does the Specialist Have Sufficient Expertise and a Proven Track Record in Visa Applications?

The screening process for the Business Manager Visa is strict and requires specialized knowledge and experience. When choosing a specialist, it is important to check their track record and level of experience.

Confirm how many Business Manager Visa applications they have handled and, if available, their approval rate. It is especially helpful if they have extensive experience with cases similar to your business type, nationality, or situation, as this increases the likelihood of receiving accurate advice and support. You can check their achievements on their website or ask questions during the initial consultation.

If your background is unusual or your business plan is complex, their ability to handle non-standard cases is also important. It is effective to ask about past cases and how they have overcome difficult applications.

5-3. Is Multilingual Support (English, Chinese, etc.) Available?

For foreign entrepreneurs, the language barrier can be a major source of stress. Whether communication with the specialist will be smooth is a very important selection criterion.

If you are not confident in Japanese, you should choose a specialist who can assist you in a language you understand well, such as English or Chinese. Being able to accurately understand important points about contracts and procedures in your native or preferred language allows you to proceed with peace of mind.

Visa applications and company establishment procedures often require confirming subtle nuances and exchanging complex information. Misunderstandings caused by language barriers can lead to critical mistakes. Choose a specialist who offers multilingual support and communicates carefully. In addition to professional expertise, ease of communication and a strong support system are also essential.

5-4. Clear Explanations and a Transparent Fee Structure

Make sure that the specialist explains things clearly and carefully in plain language without using excessive technical terms, and that the fee structure is transparent and thoroughly explained in advance. To avoid unexpected costs later, it is important to carefully review estimates and contract details beforehand.

5-5. Speed of Response and Ease of Consultation

It is also important that responses to inquiries are prompt and that the atmosphere makes it easy to ask questions, as this helps ensure a stress-free process. Find a trustworthy partner who is willing to listen and provide sincere support.

By referring to these points and comparing several specialists, you can choose the office that offers the best support for your needs, which will greatly increase your chances of successfully obtaining a Business Manager Visa.

At Legal Estate Judicial Scrivener and Administrative Scrivener Office, we offer nationwide support, multilingual services in English and Chinese, and a one-stop service covering everything from visa applications to company establishment. We are dedicated to helping make your dream of starting a business in Japan a reality.

Contact

6.Summary

✓The Business Manager Visa is an essential residence status that allows foreign nationals to run or manage a business in Japan. ✓The biggest reason the Business Manager Visa has become “extremely difficult” is the significant stricter requirements that came into effect on October 16, 2025. ✓The former requirement of “5 million yen in capital” has been replaced by the mandatory requirement of “30 million yen in capital + employment of one full-time staff member.” The “no academic background required” rule has changed to require a minimum of “three years of management experience or a Master’s degree.” ✓The business plan must now undergo mandatory pre-confirmation by a specialist, such as a Certified Small and Medium Enterprise Management Consultant (Chusho Kigyo診断士), significantly raising the level of scrutiny. ✓When choosing a specialist, it is paramount that they accurately understand these latest legal revisions and have a proven track record of providing a comprehensive, one-stop service.

In this article, we have explained the essential Business Manager Visa for foreign entrepreneurs starting a business in Japan, covering its overview, the reasons it is considered “difficult,” key points for successful acquisition, and how to choose a reliable specialist.

Obtaining a Business Manager Visa certainly involves many preparations and is not an easy path. However, by focusing on the key points, preparing systematically, and utilizing the support of appropriate specialists when necessary, achieving your goal of starting a business in Japan is entirely possible.

In particular, experienced professionals who can provide one-stop support for both visa applications (administrative scrivener) and company registration (judicial scrivener), as well as multilingual services (such as English and Chinese), will be a great asset for foreign entrepreneurs.

To stand at the starting line of your business in Japan, begin by organizing your own situation and taking the first step forward. If you have any concerns or questions about the procedures, consider consulting a trustworthy specialist. We sincerely support your first step toward success in Japan.

Contact