Hong Kong
Taiwan
VietnamThe new rules (from 16 October 2025)
| Item | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Capital | JPY 30 million |
| Staff | At least one full-time employee |
| Experience or education | Three years’ management experience, or a master’s or higher |
| Japanese | The applicant or a full-time employee at JLPT N2 (B2) level |
| Business plan | Confirmed by a qualified professional |
Two ways to meet the Japanese requirement
| Way | Detail |
|---|---|
| You have it | N2 or equivalent evidence |
| Hire it | A full-time employee at N2 level, such as a Japanese national or eligible resident |
Transition period
Current holders have a three-year transition and must meet the new rules by October 2028.
An alternative: HSP business management
If you also meet the HSP business management points threshold, consider applying as a Highly Skilled Professional, with its faster route to permanent residence.
Planning advice
- Assess your own Japanese and whether to take the test.
- If an employee will meet it, plan the hire early.
- Calculate your HSP points and compare both routes.