Overview of the Business Manager Visa

The Business Manager Visa is a type of residency status granted to foreign nationals who wish to manage or operate a business in Japan. This visa is essential for foreigners who want to run a business or engage in investment activities in Japan, particularly when starting a new business or managing an existing company. This article provides a detailed explanation of the Business Manager Visa, including its overview, eligibility requirements, application procedures, and the benefits of obtaining the visa.

1. What is the Business Manager Visa?

The Business Manager Visa is a residency status issued to foreign nationals who manage or operate a company or business in Japan, or work as a manager in an organization. It is necessary when starting a new business in Japan, operating a branch of a foreign company, or managing an existing Japanese business.

This visa mainly covers the following activities:

• Establishing a business in Japan and being involved in its management (such as startups or setting up new corporations).
• Managing the operations of an existing Japanese company (serving as an executive or manager).
• Running a branch or subsidiary of a foreign company in Japan (expansion of a foreign entity’s business into Japan).

2. Requirements for Obtaining the Business Manager Visa

To obtain a Business Manager Visa, several requirements must be met. Below are the key eligibility conditions:

a. Business Substantiality
The business being managed must be properly operated in Japan. To demonstrate this, documents such as securing an office, submitting a business plan, and hiring staff are required to prove that the business is actively operating. A virtual office with just an address or a business without substance will make it difficult to obtain the visa.

b. Capital or Investment Amount
A minimum of 5 million yen in capital or investment is required to demonstrate the financial foundation of the business. This is the minimum amount necessary for establishing a new business, and securing sufficient capital is a prerequisite for obtaining the visa.

c. Business Plan Stability
At the time of application, the business plan must show sustainability. This involves submitting a detailed business plan with sales projections, revenue models, and marketing strategies to demonstrate long-term profitability and financial stability.

d. Physical Office Setup
A physical office is required to operate the business. The office must be in a location suitable for business activities, and virtual offices or personal residences are generally not accepted. Evidence such as a rental contract is needed at the time of application.

e. Managerial Competence
The applicant must have a role suitable for managing or operating the business. For example, documents such as work history or educational qualifications must be submitted to prove that the applicant has the necessary experience, skills, and knowledge for business management.

3. Application Procedure

The application for a Business Manager Visa involves the following steps:

a. Preparation of Required Documents
The necessary documents for the visa application include:

• Business Plan: A detailed plan describing the company’s objectives, operational policies, and sales projections.
• Company Registration Documents: A certified copy of the company's registration or articles of incorporation.
• Proof of Capital: Documents showing the bank balance or other proof of sufficient capital.
• Office Lease Agreement: A rental contract showing that a physical office has been secured.
• Applicant’s Identification Documents: Passport and personal identification documents such as photos.

b. Application at the Immigration Bureau
Once the documents are ready, the application is submitted to the nearest Immigration Bureau. The review process typically takes 1 to 3 months, although it may take longer depending on the application and review status.

c. Receiving the Residence Card
Once the application is approved, the Business Manager Visa is issued, and the applicant receives a residence card. This allows for long-term residence and business operation in Japan. The initial visa is issued for either 1 or 3 years, with the possibility of renewal if needed.

4. Benefits of Obtaining a Business Manager Visa

a. Ability to Operate a Business in Japan
With a Business Manager Visa, foreign nationals can freely establish and run businesses in Japan. Depending on the scale and nature of the business, the visa also allows for expanding investment activities and partnerships in Japan.

b. Ability to Bring Family Members
If the Business Manager Visa is obtained, the visa holder’s spouse and children can also apply for a Dependent Visa, allowing them to live together in Japan. This makes it possible to balance both business management and family life.

c. Path to Permanent Residency or Japanese Citizenship
After running a stable business in Japan for an extended period, holders of the Business Manager Visa may apply for permanent residency or Japanese citizenship, provided they meet certain conditions. This allows for the establishment of a long-term living and business base in Japan, enabling more stable business operations.

5. Conclusion

The Business Manager Visa is an essential residency status for managing and operating a business in Japan. Foreign nationals who wish to start a business or manage an existing company in Japan must meet strict requirements, such as demonstrating the substantiality of the business, capital, and managerial competence. However, obtaining this visa significantly broadens business opportunities in Japan. Additionally, there are long-term benefits, including the possibility of family accompaniment and permanent residency acquisition.