Are you a foreign entrepreneur planning to start a business in Japan?
To legally operate a business in Japan, you’ll likely need the Business Manager Visa (経営・管理ビザ)—a visa specifically designed for foreign business owners and managers.
In this updated 2025 guide, we’ll cover:
- ✅ What is the Business Manager Visa?
- ✅ What are the latest requirements?
- ✅ How to apply step-by-step
- ✅ Common pitfalls to avoid
🔍 What is the Business Manager Visa?
The Business Manager Visa is a Japanese residence status that allows foreign nationals to start, operate, or manage a business in Japan. It is required if you are not already a permanent resident, Japanese spouse, or long-term visa holder.
🎯 Key Features:
- Specifically designed for entrepreneurs and executives
- Requires business establishment before application
- Commonly used by startups, restaurant owners, import/export businesses, and tech founders
📌 Business Manager Visa Requirements (Updated for 2025)
✅ Company Requirements (You Must Meet at Least One):
- Hire two or more full-time employees
- Must be residents of Japan (Japanese nationals or long-term visa holders)
- Invest a capital amount of at least 5 million yen
💡 Tip: Immigration looks for stability. A mix of employees and capital investment can help.
✅ Office Space Requirement:
- You must secure a dedicated office for your business.
- Residential-use-only properties are not accepted.
- The lease agreement must explicitly allow business use.
👔 Applying as a Business Manager (Non-Owner)
Even if you are not the founder, you may still qualify for the visa if you:
- Have 3+ years of management experience (including MBA programs)
- Receive a salary comparable to Japanese managers in a similar role
🛠️ How to Apply for the Business Manager Visa
1. 🧠 Create a Strong Business Plan
- Immigration will assess the viability and continuity of your business.
- Your plan should include:
- Business overview
- Revenue forecast
- Hiring plans
- Office location
2. 🏢 Register Your Company in Japan
- Choose a business structure (e.g. Kabushiki Kaisha (KK) or Godo Kaisha (GK))
- Open a company bank account
- Deposit capital
- File registration with the Legal Affairs Bureau
3. 📍 Secure an Office
- Avoid co-working spaces unless they meet strict privacy and lease conditions
4. 📄 Obtain Necessary Licenses
- Example: Secondhand Dealer License if selling used goods
5. 📝 Submit Your Application
- Prepare and file the Certificate of Eligibility (COE) application
- Include all supporting documents (business plan, office lease, capital evidence, etc.)
6. ⏳ Wait for Screening (~2–3 Months)
- The process can be complex → Legal support is strongly recommended
📑 Required Documents (Partial List)
- Business plan
- Certificate of company registration
- Articles of incorporation
- Office lease agreement
- Proof of capital investment
- Employment contracts (if hiring)
- Your CV and academic certificates (for managers)
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Submitting incomplete or vague business plans
❌ Using residential apartments as your “office”
❌ Failing to meet salary or experience requirements
❌ Missing necessary business licenses
👨⚖️ Should You Use a Lawyer or Immigration Specialist?
Yes.
Japan’s immigration procedures are strict and documentation-heavy.
Hiring a lawyer (弁護士) or certified administrative scrivener (行政書士) will significantly increase your chances of success.
🎯 Final Thoughts
Obtaining a Business Manager Visa in Japan is a big step—but also a rewarding one.
If you plan properly, have a viable business model, and get the right legal support, you can successfully start and operate your business in Japan.
💡 Related: What Is the Startup Visa?
If you are just beginning your entrepreneurial journey in Japan, you may also consider applying for a Startup Visa, which allows you to stay in Japan for up to one year to prepare your business before applying for the Business Manager Visa.
Startup Visa Highlights:
-
No upfront capital or employees required
-
Available in select cities like Tokyo, Fukuoka, and Osaka
-
Must work with a local government or certified incubator
🔗 Learn more: How to Start a Business in Japan with the Startup Visa (Updated for 2025)
