Part 3: Proving Your Office — Photos, Lease Contracts, and Signage
Practical Evidence Required for the Business Manager Visa
1. Introduction
As we’ve explained in previous articles, the existence of a proper business office is a critical requirement for the Business Manager Visa. However, even if the office space itself meets the technical requirements, your application may still be rejected if you fail to submit sufficient documentary evidence.
In this article, we outline the key documents and visual evidence — including photos, lease agreements, signage, and office setup — that immigration officials expect to review.
2. Essential Documents and Practical Tips
(1) Lease Agreement
- The lease must be under the name of the applicant (individual or corporation)
- The contract must explicitly permit business use
- A lease term of one to two years or longer is ideal, with a renewal clause
- Subleases or hourly rental contracts require detailed explanation and justification
(2) Photographs of the Office (Multiple Angles)
Photos should clearly demonstrate the following aspects:
Photo Type | Key Evaluation Points |
---|---|
Exterior of the building | Proof that the office is part of a real, physical building |
Building entrance & mailbox | Company name should be visible |
Interior (from the entrance) | Usability and space allocation |
Desks, chairs, equipment | Evidence of operational readiness |
Signboard or doorplate | Visibility of the company name to outsiders |
Date-stamped images, ideally taken just before submission, are strongly recommended.
(3) Signage, Nameplates, and Business Cards
- A nameplate or signage on the door/entrance is a symbolic and practical indicator of an active business presence
- Supplementary materials such as business cards (with the office address) or the company’s website can further strengthen credibility
3. Other Recommended Supporting Materials
- Office layout diagram: Even a simple sketch showing desks and entrances helps
- Utility setup confirmations: Contracts or activation notices for electricity, water, internet
- Business landline setup: A real phone number (e.g., beginning with 03 or 06) demonstrates physical infrastructure
4. Conclusion
For a successful Business Manager Visa application, it's not enough to have a qualifying office — you must prove that the space is set up and used for actual business operations.
Incomplete documentation is a frequent reason for avoidable rejections.
In the next article, we’ll discuss common reasons for rejection related to the office requirement, along with real-world examples and practical solutions.