1. Current Requirements (as of 2025)
The “Business Manager” visa allows foreign nationals to manage or operate a business in Japan. Under the current system, applicants must satisfy either of the following:
- Employ at least two full-time staff in Japan, or
- Invest at least ¥5 million in the business.
Additionally, applicants must secure a physical office in Japan and submit a business plan that demonstrates continuity and stability.
This relatively low threshold has made Japan an attractive destination for foreign entrepreneurs, especially those from Asian countries.
2. The Upcoming Changes: From “OR” to “AND”
According to The Asahi Shimbun, the Immigration Services Agency and Ministry of Justice are preparing to revise the criteria as follows:
- Applicants must both:
- Employ at least one full-time employee, and
- Invest at least ¥30 million in capital.
This marks a shift from a flexible “or” structure to a strict “and” requirement, with a sixfold increase in the capital threshold.
3. Background to the Revision
(1) Preventing Misuse
Authorities have found growing cases of “visa misuse,” where applicants set up paper companies, rent virtual offices, or use the visa merely to reside in Japan, particularly for real estate or short-term rental operations.
(2) International Benchmarking
In South Korea, for instance, the capital requirement for similar business visas is equivalent to about ¥30 million, making Japan’s current ¥5 million level appear too lenient.
(3) Policy Integration
The change also aims to clarify the role of the “Business Manager” visa as separate from startup visas tied to local government support. While the latter offers flexibility for early-stage entrepreneurs, the “Business Manager” visa will now be redefined for serious investors only.
4. Impacts and Considerations
(1) Higher Financial Barriers
Small-scale entrepreneurs or individuals with limited funds may be excluded under the new system. A ¥30 million capital requirement is likely out of reach for many intending to open small shops or services.
(2) Revised Employment Criteria
While the required number of employees is reduced to one, this comes with stricter checks on whether the employment is real and meaningful.
(3) Increased Urgency
Foreigners planning to apply for this visa under the current rules are advised to submit applications before the revision takes effect, likely by the end of fiscal 2025.
5. Broader Significance
This revision seeks to enhance the credibility and seriousness of Japan’s immigration system, ensuring that business visas are granted only to those who demonstrate true commitment to enterprise in Japan.
It also brings Japan more in line with international standards and helps distinguish genuine business activity from residency-motivated or exploitative behavior.