[Part 3] Explanation of New Rules for Business Manager Visa: Stock Acquisition Rights and Local Government Support

This article provides a detailed explanation of the examination criteria for the “Business Manager” visa status, based on the latest guidelines issued by the Immigration Services Agency titled "Clarification of Residency Requirements for Foreign Entrepreneurs."

▶ Click here for the official guidelines (Japanese)

This part focuses on the specific requirements and required documents related to "fundraising through paid stock acquisition rights" and "special support measures from local governments for startups."

Capital Recognition via Paid Stock Acquisition Rights

To obtain a Business Manager Visa, applicants must fulfill the condition of having a capital amount of at least JPY 5 million. In connection with this, funds raised through the issuance of paid stock acquisition rights can now be included in the required JPY 5 million under certain conditions.

The following two conditions must be met simultaneously:

• The paid-in amount must not be subject to repayment.
• The amount must be recorded as capital regardless of whether the stock acquisition rights are exercised.

Required documents to demonstrate this include:

• Investment Agreement
• Proof of payment
• Written pledge stating the amount is recorded as capital

This system is a favorable measure for foreign entrepreneurs raising funds during the startup phase, providing more flexible options for meeting capital requirements.

Special Measures for Startup Support by Local Governments

By utilizing startup support programs implemented by local governments, exceptions to the JPY 5 million business scale requirement may be granted.

🔍 Main Eligibility Requirements

• Recognition as a "Startup Support Program Participant" by a local government
• Residency in an incubation facility or similar premises
• The local government covers costs such as rent and consulting fees

Support of up to JPY 2 million per year may be counted together with the applicant’s own funds toward the JPY 5 million requirement.

📄 Required Document: Certificate of Startup Support Program Participation

Applicants must submit a "Certificate of Startup Support Program Participation" issued by the local government, which must include the following details:

• Full name and date of birth
• Name and details of the support program and business content
• Details of the support (facility, costs, duration)
• Estimated private market costs and rationale for the support calculation
• Amount to be borne by the applicant

When applying for visa renewal after the support period ends, the regular JPY 5 million requirement must be met. This exception is a temporary measure, and it is essential to develop a long-term business plan.

Duration of Stay

When this special measure is applied, the period of stay is generally limited to one year.

Summary

Through Parts 1 to 3 of this series, we have explained the latest operational policies regarding the acquisition and maintenance of the Business Manager Visa.

In Part 3, we reviewed in detail the following:

• New funding methods to meet capital requirements (paid stock acquisition rights)
• How to utilize support programs provided by local governments

By understanding these systems correctly and preparing the necessary documents, you can strengthen the foundation for successful business development and stable visa acquisition in Japan.

If you are aiming to obtain a Business Manager Visa in Japan, we highly recommend consulting with a specialist to ensure proper preparation.