Business Manager Visa

Business Manager Visa  – as of October 16, 2025

The Business Manager Visa is designed for foreign nationals who wish to start or manage a business in Japan.

 

Key Requirements

  • Business Office
      • Must have a physical office in Japan. If business has not started yet, premises need to be secured under a formal lease. 
      • The space must have the appropriate equipment to qualify as an office.
  • Business Scale
      • Employ at least one full-time staff in Japan. 
      • Have a capital/investment of at least ¥30 million.
      • Propose a business plan that shows stability, continuity and feasibility. The plan must be verified by a qualified professional, such as a business consultant, certified public accountant, or tax accountant.
  • Relevant Experience/Remuneration
      • Either, hold a master’s, doctoral, or professional degree (including from overseas) in a relevant management or technical field,
      • Or have at least three years of experience in business management or administration.
      • Must receive a salary/compensation comparable to what a Japanese national would receive for similar work. 
  • Japanese Language Proficiency
  • Either the applicant or one of the full-time employees must have sufficient Japanese proficiency (JLPT N2/BJT 400+).

 

Duration & Process

  • Visa duration: 3 years, 5 years, 1 year, 4 months, or 3 months depending on business stability and other factors. New businesses can usually expect a 1 year period initially. 
  • Estimated time: It can take several months until the necessary visa procedures are completed. Expect at least 4 – 6months until issuance.
  • Certificate of Eligibility (COE): Required, unless changing resident status within Japan.