【Latest Guide -Part1- 】Guide to Obtaining a "Japanese Business Manager Visa" for Foreign Nationals (Corresponding to the 2024 revision) -EN

The "Business Manager Visa" is an essential residency status for foreign nationals aiming to start or operate a business in Japan. In March 2024, the Immigration Services Agency of Japan released updated operational guidelines that clarified the specific criteria and requirements for obtaining this visa.

This article provides a clear explanation of the key points foreign entrepreneurs need to know to obtain a Business Manager Visa in Japan, based on the official guidelines from the Immigration Services Agency.

▶ Click here for the official guidelines (Immigration Services Agency of Japan)

What is a Business Manager Visa?

The Business Manager Visa (residence status "Business Manager") is for foreign nationals who intend to establish and manage a company in Japan, or who plan to oversee an existing business.

To obtain this visa, it is necessary to be substantially involved in the management and operation of the business, rather than simply holding a formal position.

Key Examination Criteria and Requirements

① Substantial Involvement in Business Management

To qualify for residency status, applicants must be involved in activities such as:

• Making important decisions regarding company operations
• Engaging in execution of operations, accounting, or auditing

Holding a title alone is not sufficient—actual participation in decision-making processes is essential.

② Securing a Business Office (Requirements under Landing Criteria Ordinance)

To conduct business activities in Japan, the following conditions must be met regarding the business office:

• The location must be independent and used continuously for business activities
• Short-term rental spaces or street stalls are generally not acceptable

If using a residence as a business office, additional requirements apply:

• Landlord’s permission for business use (explicitly stated in the lease agreement)
• A separate room dedicated to business with proper office equipment
• Installation of a nameplate or signage
• Clear payment records for utilities

If these conditions are not met, the visa application may be denied.

③ Utilizing Startup Support Facilities (Incubators)

As an exception, JETRO’s IBSC and local government incubation offices may be recognized as valid business offices for visa purposes.

Actual Cases of Approval and Denial

✅ Approved Cases

• Rented a property with a lease stating “for office use”
• Used a property owned by a Chamber of Commerce as a branch office
• Installed a separate entrance and business signage for the office space apart from the residence

❌ Denied Cases

• Applied using a corner of a private home with only household items present
• Lease agreement was in the name of an employee, not the applicant

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use part of my home as an office?

A: Yes, it is possible, but all conditions mentioned above (e.g., signage installation, room separation, landlord permission) must be met.

Q2: Can I apply even if I don’t speak Japanese?

A: Japanese language ability is not mandatory. However, it is highly recommended to seek support from a trusted professional (such as an administrative scrivener) for preparing required documents and ensuring business legitimacy.

Consult with an Expert

If you have concerns about obtaining a “Business Manager Visa in Japan,” we recommend consulting with a professional such as an administrative scrivener.

At the Japan Business Visa Center, our team includes not only administrative scriveners but also Small and Medium Enterprise Consultants who can assist with drafting business plans. We provide end-to-end support from company establishment to visa acquisition.

Final Thoughts

For those aiming to reside in Japan as a foreign entrepreneur, the Business Manager Visa is the first step. By understanding the system properly and applying it to your actual business development, you can achieve both smooth residency and successful operations.

We hope this article serves as a helpful guide in realizing your business goals in Japan.