The Business Manager Visa is a residency status required for foreign nationals who wish to start or operate a business in Japan or work as a managerial position in a Japanese company. This visa allows foreign nationals to establish a company, manage business operations, and actively participate in business management within Japan.
✅ Know the estimated processing time in advance!
| 🔢 StepSteps | ⏳ Estimated Timeline |
|---|---|
| Company Establishment Preparation | Approx. 1 to 2 months |
| Preparation of Visa Application Documents | Approx. 2 to 3 Weeks |
| Examination at the Immigration Bureau (COE) | Approx. 1 to 3 months |
| Visa Issuance & Entry into Japan | Approx. 1 Week |
| ⏰ Total Duration (In the Shortest Case) | Approx. 3 to 5 months |
1️⃣ Eligible Applicants for the Business Manager Visa
✅ Foreign nationals who establish and manage a company in Japan
✅ Foreign nationals serving as executives or managers in existing Japanese companies
✅ Foreign nationals who establish and operate a branch or office of a company in Japan
2️⃣ Requirements for Obtaining a Business Manager Visa
✅ A. In the Case of Company Establishment and Business Operation
1.Securing a Business Office
→ Virtual offices or personal residences are not allowed. A physical office is required.
2.Capital Requirements
→ A minimum capital of 5 million yen must be prepared.
3.Business Viability
→ Prepare a detailed business plan, financial forecasts, and target customers.
→ Simple name lending or paper companies will not be approved.
4.Employee Employment Conditions (Recommended)
→ It is preferable to employ at least two Japanese nationals or permanent residents, or maintain a business of equivalent scale.
✅ B. In the Case of Working as an Executive or Manager in an Existing Company
1.Executive or Managerial Position
→ Must hold a position such as Director, Executive Officer, or an equivalent managerial role.
2.Company Stability
→ Documents demonstrating the company’s financial stability, such as financial statements and the company’s registry certificate, are required.
3️⃣ Required Documents for Application
📄 Basic Required Documents
✅ Documents Related to the Applicant
- Copy of Passport
- Copy of Residence Card (if already residing in Japan)
- Resume & Work History
- Graduation Certificate or Degree Certificate (to verify the highest academic qualification)
- Proof of Capital Contribution (e.g., Bank Balance Certificate)
- Business Plan (including detailed business content, revenue projections, market analysis, etc.)
🏢 会社設立関連の書類
🏢 Documents Related to Company Establishment
- Certificate of Company Registration
- Articles of Incorporation (document outlining the fundamental rules of the company)
- Office Lease Agreement (virtual offices are not permitted)
- Proof of Capital Payment (issued by a financial institution)
- Photos of the Office (including interior and exterior views)
✅ In the Case of Working as an Executive or Manager in an Existing Company
- Employment Contract or Executive Appointment Letter
- Certificate of Company Registration
- Financial Statements & Tax Payment Certificate (to prove the company’s stability)
- Business Overview Document
👥 Additional Documents That May Be Required
✅ If Employing Japanese Nationals or Permanent Residents
- Employment Contracts of Employees
- Certificate of Social Insurance Enrollment
✅ If Applying for a Dependent Visa Simultaneously
- amily Register (戸籍謄本) or Marriage Certificate (to prove family relationships)
- Copy of Passports for Spouse and Children
✅ If Related to Specific Industries or Business Activities
- Industry-Specific Licenses or Permits (e.g., Restaurant Business License, Hotel Business Permit)
- Documents Related to Environmental or Safety Standards (if required)
4️⃣ Summary
The required documents for applying for a Business Manager Visa vary significantly depending on the type of business and the applicant’s situation.
⚠️ Since the required documents differ for each case, such as “Company Establishment,” “Appointment to an Existing Company,” or “Dependent Visa,” it is essential to verify the specific requirements in advance.
💼 By ensuring accurate document preparation and seeking support from professionals such as administrative scriveners, you can increase your chances of successfully obtaining the visa!