Part 4: Practical Tips to Strengthen Your Business Manager Visa Application

How to Succeed When Changing from Dependent Status

Introduction

The Business Manager visa is not granted based on formalities alone—it requires proof of real business activity. In this article, we’ll cover practical tips to improve your chances of approval, especially when applying from Dependent status.

1. Make Your Preparations Visible to Immigration

Immigration officers need to see clear evidence that you are ready and capable of launching a real business. Effective supporting documents include:

• Office/store lease contract, photos, and renovation estimates
• Emails, quotes, or contracts with suppliers or clients
• Flyers, website screenshots, social media pages
• A timeline for opening and evidence of any licenses being applied for

2. Demonstrate Financial Independence

• Show that the investment funds come from your own account
• Provide a balance certificate showing you can cover setup and living costs
• Include income projections in your business plan to show sustainability

3. Maintain Consistency Across All Documents

Inconsistencies between documents can raise doubts. Make sure that all paperwork—from your visa application and articles of incorporation to your lease and company website—aligns.

• Your application says "beauty salon" but your articles of incorporation say "consulting"
• Your business card says “Shinjuku” but your registered address is in Chiba

4. Prepare for Interviews or Document Requests

• Explain your business model clearly and concisely
• Clarify your relationship with any partners or investors
• Attach Japanese translations to any non-Japanese materials

Conclusion

The Business Manager visa is not just a paperwork process—it’s an evaluation of your business credibility. For applicants changing from Dependent status, demonstrating actual business readiness is critical. Show your seriousness through facts, not just forms.

In the final part of this series, we’ll explain how our office supports clients and walks them through the process step-by-step.