The new requirements
- Capital of at least JPY 30 million
- At least one full-time employee (a Japanese national, permanent resident or holder of certain statuses)
- Three years of management experience, or a master’s degree or higher
- You or your full-time employee must have Japanese equivalent to JLPT N2 (B2)
- A physical office, and a business plan confirmed by a qualified professional
Transition period
Existing visa holders have a three-year transition period and must meet the new rules by October 2028.
What it means for applicants
The threshold is clearly higher, but applicants are also stronger. When planning, also check whether you qualify under the HSP business management category, for a faster route to permanent residence.
Business Manager Visa at a glance
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Capital | JPY 30,000,000 |
| Staff | At least one full-time employee |
| Office | A physical office in Japan |
| Family | Spouse and children |
Business Manager Visa application process and timing
- Assessment and business plan (1–2 months): We assess your eligibility and develop the business plan.
- Company and office set-up (1–3 months): Register the company, pay in the capital and lease an office.
- Status of residence application (1–3 months): Apply for a Certificate of Eligibility.
- Entry and renewal (Per your period of stay): Enter Japan, run the business and renew based on its performance.
Main Business Manager Visa requirements
- Capital of at least JPY 30 million
- At least one full-time employee (a Japanese national, permanent resident or holder of certain statuses of residence)
- At least three years of management experience, or a master’s degree or higher
- Japanese ability equivalent to JLPT N2 (B2) held by you or your full-time employee
- A physical office in Japan and a business plan confirmed by a qualified professional
Key benefits of Business Manager Visa
- Live in Japan as a business owner
- Your spouse and children can come with you
- Children can attend school in Japan
- Build a long-term base by running a business in Japan
More questions about Business Manager Visa
What changed in 2025? From 16 October 2025 the capital requirement rose from JPY 5 million to JPY 30 million, with new requirements for staff, experience, Japanese ability and business plan confirmation. Existing visa holders have a three-year transition period and must meet the new rules by October 2028.
Do I need to speak Japanese? Either you or one of your full-time employees must have Japanese ability equivalent to JLPT N2 (B2) or above.
Next step
Every family’s background, funds and timeline are different. Global Immigrate’s professional consultants can assess, free of charge, whether this programme suits you and compare other options. You can also request the full programme brochure on the programme page.
Learn more: Japan Business Manager Visa