The Business Manager Visa is designed for foreign nationals who intend to:
- Start a new company in Japan
- Manage an existing business in Japan
- Invest in a Japanese business and take on a managerial role
This visa allows you to live in Japan while running or managing your company. It can be renewed and even lead to permanent residency if certain conditions are met.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Get a Business Manager Visa
1. Decide on Your Business Structure
You must set up a legal entity before applying for the visa. Most foreign entrepreneurs choose:
- Kabushiki Kaisha (KK) – similar to a corporation
- Godo Kaisha (GK) – similar to an LLC
💡Tip: GK is simpler and faster to set up for small businesses.
2. Secure a Physical Office Space in Japan
You need a real, dedicated office space. Virtual offices, coworking spaces, or residential addresses generally do not qualify unless a private room is leased under the company’s name.
3. Prepare the Required Capital
To apply for the visa, you must:
- Invest at least ¥5 million (~USD 35,000) into the company
- OR
- Hire at least two full-time Japanese (or permanent resident) employees
Most applicants go with the ¥5 million capital route to start.
4. Register Your Company
Once you have the office and capital ready:
- Register the company at the Legal Affairs Bureau
- Open a corporate bank account
- Deposit the capital (if not done earlier)
After registration, you’ll get:
- Your company’s certificate of registration
- A company seal and seal certificate
5. Apply for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
This is a key step. The COE is issued by the Immigration Bureau in Japan and certifies that you meet visa requirements.
Documents required:
- COE application form
- Business plan (in Japanese)
- Proof of capital (e.g., bank statement)
- Office lease contract
- Company registration documents
- Company seal certificate
- Resume (CV)
- Other supporting documents as needed
You (or a legal representative in Japan) submit this to your local Immigration Office. Processing time is usually 1 to 3 months.
6. Receive Your COE and Apply for the Visa
Once the COE is approved:
- It will be mailed to you (or your representative)
- Take the COE to a Japanese embassy or consulate in your country
- Apply for the Business Manager Visa
Processing takes about 1 week, depending on the country.
7. Enter Japan and Start Operations
Once you arrive in Japan:
- You’ll receive a Resident Card at the airport
- Register your address at the local city/ward office
- Set up your tax registration and social insurance
Visa Duration and Renewal
- First-time Business Manager Visas are usually valid for 1 year
- Renewal is possible if your business is active and stable
- Longer periods (3 or 5 years) are possible on renewal if performance is good
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Submitting a vague or weak business plan
- Using a virtual office instead of a dedicated office
- Underestimating the time and cost of registration and visa processing
- Not having someone in Japan to help submit the COE (if you’re not in Japan)
Final Tips
- Work with a certified immigration lawyer or visa specialist in Japan—they can greatly smooth the process.
- Make sure your business plan is clear, realistic, and translated into Japanese.
- The ¥5 million capital should be traceable and legally sourced.