Comprehensive Guide to Obtaining a Business Manager Visa in Japan
The Business Manager Visa allows foreign nationals to establish, manage, or operate businesses in Japan. It replaced the previous Investor/Business Manager Visa in 2015 and no longer mandates foreign investment as a prerequisite. However, obtaining this visa requires meeting specific conditions, which we will explain in detail below.
Step-by-Step Application Process
1. Secure an Office
To qualify for the Business Manager Visa, you must have a dedicated physical office in Japan where your business will operate. This cannot be a residential address unless the space is clearly designated for business purposes and meets zoning requirements.
Example: Leasing a small commercial office or a coworking space designed for businesses can satisfy this requirement.
2. Establish the Company
The next step is legally registering your business with the appropriate authorities. This involves:
Choosing a company structure (e.g., Kabushiki Kaisha (KK) or Godo Kaisha (GK)).
Submitting the Articles of Incorporation.
Paying the necessary registration fees.
Ensure your business name and purpose align with the visa's scope.
3. Notify Tax Authorities
After registering the company, you are required to notify the local tax office and other relevant authorities about your company's establishment.
You will typically need to register for corporate tax, consumption tax, and other applicable taxes.
4. Obtain Necessary Licenses
Some businesses in Japan require additional permits or licenses to operate legally. Examples include:
Food service businesses (need a food sanitation license).
Real estate agencies (require a real estate license).
Educational institutions (may need approval from the Ministry of Education).
Research your industry’s licensing requirements to ensure compliance.
5. Update Office Registration
After leasing an office, make sure the space is formally registered under your company’s name. This is important for proving the legitimacy of your business operations.
6. Prepare Application Documents
Compile the necessary documents, which typically include:
Business plan detailing the nature, scope, and goals of your business.
Proof of company registration and office lease agreement.
Financial statements or proof of investment (e.g., bank deposit showing 5 million yen or more).
Personal identification documents (e.g., passport, visa application forms).
Evidence of qualifications or experience in business management (e.g., CV, certifications).
7. Submit Application
Apply for either a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) or a change in the status of residence if you are already in Japan under a different visa.
The COE application is submitted to the Immigration Services Agency of Japan. Once issued, the COE allows you to apply for the actual visa at a Japanese embassy or consulate in your home country.
Key Requirements for the Business Manager Visa
1. Eligibility for Status of Residence
To qualify for the Business Manager Visa, your business must meet certain criteria:
Engagement in Business Activities:
You must actively manage or operate the business.
Passive investment without involvement in daily operations does not qualify.
Legitimate Operations:
The business must comply with Japanese laws and regulations.
Examples: Properly filing taxes, obtaining permits, and following labor laws.
Stability and Continuity:
Your business plan should demonstrate a realistic potential for stable and continuous operation. Immigration authorities will evaluate factors such as your financial resources, market strategy, and projected income.
2. Suitability for Landing Permission Standards
Physical Office:
A dedicated business office is mandatory. Virtual offices or PO boxes are typically not accepted.
Business Scale Requirements: To satisfy immigration criteria, you must meet at least one of the following:
Capital Investment:
Invest at least 5 million yen into the business.
This investment should be verifiable through bank statements and transaction records.
Employment:
Employ at least two full-time staff who are either Japanese nationals or foreign nationals with permanent residency or other legal statuses allowing employment in Japan.
Alternative Criteria:
In exceptional cases, you may provide other evidence demonstrating the business's scale and viability (e.g., contracts with major clients, significant revenue projections).
Relevant Experience:
You must have a minimum of three years of experience in business management or administration. Academic qualifications in related fields can also support your application.
Compensation:
Your remuneration must be comparable to or higher than a Japanese counterpart in a similar role. Immigration authorities may request proof, such as a salary slip or employment contract.
Additional Notes
Simply meeting the 5 million yen investment requirement does not guarantee visa approval. Immigration officers will evaluate the overall strength of your application, including the business’s legitimacy and sustainability.
If you are joining an existing company or operating as a sole proprietor, some steps may differ. For instance, you may need additional documents proving your role within the company.
Tips for Success
Consult Professionals:
Work with immigration specialists or legal advisors experienced in Business Manager Visas to ensure all requirements are met.
Prepare a Strong Business Plan:
Your business plan should highlight realistic financial projections, market analysis, and growth strategies to convince immigration officials of your business’s viability.
Maintain Transparency:
Provide clear and accurate information in your application. Misrepresentation can lead to visa denial or future complications.
Stay Organized:
Keep all documents, permits, and financial records readily accessible for submission or future audits.
How Oyemi Japan Can Assist
At Oyemi Japan, we specialize in providing tailored support for individuals seeking a Business Manager Visa. Here’s how we can help:
Office Setup Assistance:
We assist in finding suitable office spaces that meet visa requirements and help with lease agreements.
Company Registration Support:
Oyemi provides step-by-step guidance through the company registration process, ensuring compliance with Japanese regulations.
Tax and Licensing Guidance:
Our team helps you navigate tax office notifications and acquire any industry-specific licenses required for your business.
Document Preparation:
From crafting a compelling business plan to organizing financial statements and other documents, we ensure your application is complete and professional.
Application Submission:
We work closely with you to submit your Certificate of Eligibility or visa change application accurately and on time.
Post-Visa Support:
Once your visa is approved, Oyemi offers ongoing support to help you settle in Japan, including finding housing, connecting with local resources, and navigating daily life challenges.
With Oyemi Japan by your side, you can focus on growing your business while we handle the administrative complexities.
Conclusion
The Business Manager Visa is an excellent opportunity for foreign entrepreneurs and business professionals to establish their ventures in Japan. By following the outlined steps and meeting all requirements, you can increase your chances of approval and successfully operate your business in Japan. For personalized guidance, consider consulting with immigration specialists or legal professionals who are familiar with the process.
This guide is based on information from the original article on the Daiichi Sogo Law Office website and other reliable sources. Always confirm the latest requirements with the Immigration Services Agency of Japan or your legal advisor.