Key Takeaways
- Minimum capital requirement increased from JPY 5 million to JPY 30 million
- At least one full-time employee will be required
- Japanese language requirement introduced
- Business management experience or relevant academic qualifications required
- Business plans must be reviewed by qualified professionals
- Transitional measures available for existing visa holders
Overview
Japan’s Immigration Services Agency has announced significant amendments to the requirements for the Business Manager Visa (経営・管理), effective October 16, 2025.
These changes represent one of the most substantial reforms to the Business Manager Visa framework in recent years and will have a major impact on foreign entrepreneurs seeking to establish businesses in Japan.
This article summarizes the key changes.
1. Increased Capital Requirement
Under the current rules, applicants generally need at least JPY 5 million in paid-in capital.
Under the revised rules, the minimum capital requirement will increase to JPY 30 million.
This change will significantly raise the financial threshold for obtaining a Business Manager Visa.
2. Mandatory Full-Time Employee
Applicants will be required to employ at least one full-time employee.
Eligible employees generally include Japanese nationals, permanent residents, long-term residents, and spouses of Japanese nationals or permanent residents.
Foreign nationals holding temporary work or student status generally will not satisfy this requirement.
3. Japanese Language Requirement
Either the applicant or a full-time employee must possess Japanese language proficiency equivalent to JLPT N2 or higher.
The new requirement reflects the government’s emphasis on the ability to operate a business effectively in Japan.
4. Business Management Experience or Academic Qualifications
Applicants must demonstrate either:
- At least three years of business management experience; or
- A master’s degree or equivalent qualification related to business management or the relevant industry sector.
This represents a significant departure from the current framework, which does not impose such requirements.
5. Professional Review of Business Plans
New applicants will be required to obtain professional review of their business plans.
Qualified reviewers currently include:
- Certified Public Accountants (CPAs)
- Licensed Tax Accountants
- Small and Medium Enterprise Management Consultants
The purpose is to assess the feasibility and reasonableness of the proposed business.
6. Transitional Measures for Existing Visa Holders
Individuals already holding Business Manager status will benefit from a transitional period.
For three years following implementation, immigration authorities may consider overall business performance and future compliance prospects even where the new requirements are not fully satisfied.
Nevertheless, existing business owners should begin preparing for eventual compliance with the revised standards.
Conclusion
The revised Business Manager Visa framework places greater emphasis on business substance, financial capacity, local employment, and integration into Japanese society.
Foreign entrepreneurs planning to establish businesses in Japan should carefully review these new requirements and seek professional advice before proceeding.
Our office provides assistance with Business Manager Visa applications, company establishment, and business plan preparation for foreign entrepreneurs seeking to operate in Japan.
Official page: https://www.moj.go.jp/isa/applications/resources/10_00237.html?hl=en