I am Teruyoshi Yoneda, the representative of Yoneda Legal Servives and a certified immigration procedures specialist. My office specializes in international matters such as visa and naturalization applications. Based mainly in Hiroshima Prefecture, we support foreign nationals living in Japan with various immigration procedures, including work visas, spouse visas, permanent residency applications, and naturalization.In this article, I will explain how to obtain Business Manager Visa.
1.Whatis Business Manager Visa
The Business Manager visa is a status that allows foreign nationals to start a business in Japan and engage in activities as a business owner (“management”) or as a manager of a company (such as a department manager, factory manager, or branch manager). This section explains the requirements related to “management” when a foreign national operates as a business owner. As noted above, the visa applies to individuals who are substantially involved in the management (or administration) of a business. The business must be operated appropriately, but there are no restrictions on the type of business.This visa is typically considered when a foreign national opens a restaurant, operates a trading company, or manages a real estate business in Japan.It is important to note that a mere investor does not qualify for this visa. Unlike so‑called “investor visas” in some other countries, simply investing a large amount of money in Japan does not entitle someone to obtain this visa.
“2. Main Requirements for Obtaining a Business Manager Visa
(1) Securing an office space
It is required that a business office necessary for operating the business exists in Japan, and securing such an office is a mandatory condition. Specifically, when leasing an office, the lease agreement must clearly state that the premises will be used for business purposes—such as a commercial space, shop, or office—and the contract must be under the name of the corporation or entity operating the business. It must also be clear that the premises will be used by that corporation for its business activities. Virtual offices and co‑working spaces are not permitted, and it should be noted that using a residence as both home and office is generally not accepted.
(2) Maintaining a business of sufficient scale
(A) Capital Stock / Total Investment
An amount of 30 million yen or more is required. The previous requirement was 5 million yen, but due to amendments to the ministerial ordinance and related regulations, the requirement has been raised effective October 16, 2025.
(B)Employment of Full‑Time Employees
Employment of at least one full‑time employee. Full‑time employees are limited to Japanese nationals, special permanent residents, permanent residents, spouses of Japanese nationals, spouses of permanent residents, and long‑term residents.
(3) Stability and Continuity of the Business
As for the capabilities of the business operator (such as educational background, work experience, and managerial experience), the individual must have managerial experience or hold a master’s-level degree or higher in business administration or in the field related to the business being managed. In addition, it is required to prepare a business plan that includes the business outline, pricing strategy, customer acquisition methods, business partners, suppliers, subcontractors, and profit‑and‑loss projections. A qualified expert with specialized knowledge in business management must verify that the plan is concrete, reasonable, and feasible.
(4) Japanese Language Proficiency
Either the applicant or a full‑time employee must possess a sufficient level of Japanese language proficiency.
A guideline for sufficient proficiency is passing the Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) at level N2 or higher, or achieving a score of 400 or above on the BJT Business Japanese Proficiency Test.
3.Evaluation Criteria
・The office must be secured and meet the required conditions.
・The business must be of a certain minimum scale, such as meeting the requirements for capital and full‑time employees.
・The applicant’s own capabilities as a business manager (educational background, work experience, and managerial experience).
・Japanese Language Proficiency
The criteria for the Business Manager visa have been revised, and the requirements have become more stringent.
To obtain a Business Manager Visa, it is necessary to establish a company and secure an office in compliance with the Immigration Control Act, as well as prepare a business plan and meet other requirements. Our office provides comprehensive consulting services from the company establishment stage through to visa acquisition, allowing us to offer seamless, one‑stop support.
If you are considering applying for a Business Manager Visa in the Chugoku region (Hiroshima, Yamaguchi, Okayama, Shimane, Tottori) or in other parts of Japan, we offer free consultations. Please feel free to contact us. We will provide our full support until your Business Manager Visa is approved.
