Japan's reputation for innovation, product and service excellence, and a highly skilled workforce drives foreign investments into the country, making it a key market for international businesses and a base for expansion in Asia. The hub of Japan's economic activity in Tokyo offers easy access to the talent pool, aided by the Internet of Things (IoT).
What is a Business Manager Visa?
The 4-month Business Manager Visa, first offered by the government of Japan in 2015, is a popular option for entrepreneurs. It was created to facilitate foreign nationals' preparation to set up a business in Japan. For successful applicants, the Business Manager Visa allows you to do the following within four months:
- Get a Residence Card
- Open a bank account
- Set up and register your business in Japan
- Apply for an extension of a 1-year stay in Japan with this visa
Benefits of Business Manager Visa
Business Manager Visa offers many advantages, including greater flexibility, easier access to financing, and the ability to work and live in a foreign country.
- Business Manager visa allows for longer stays in Japan compared to other visas.
- This visa is specifically designed for those who aim to engage in business activities in Japan.
- Business Manager visa allows for multiple entry and exit from Japan, making it easier for frequent travelers.
- Holders of this visa can bring their family members to Japan as dependents.
- The visa can be renewed indefinitely as long as the holder meets the requirements.
- Business Manager visa holders are not required to have a degree or recognised skills, making it accessible to a broader range of people.
- Holders of this visa are allowed to engage in various business activities, including starting a business, investing in a Japanese company, or managing an existing business in Japan.
- Business Manager visa holders can also work for other companies in Japan as long as it does not interfere with their primary business activities.
- This visa also provides a pathway for permanent residency in Japan, making it a popular choice for those seeking long-term living in Japan.
Read More
What are the requirements for Business Manager Visa?
Suppose you are planning to set up your own business in Japan. In that case, the Business Manager Visa is an excellent option for foreign nationals who want to manage and operate a business in the country. The visa is designed to promote foreign investment in Japan and create job opportunities for Japanese citizens.
-
Investment capital – To qualify for the Business Manager Visa, you must meet specific requirements. One of the primary requirements is investment capital. Initially, the visa required an overall investment capital of 5 million yen. However, since April 2015, a capital of 5 million yen has no longer been a strict requirement, provided the return and investment scale are enough to employ one staff member. This change has made it easier for foreign nationals to qualify for the visa and opened opportunities for small business owners who may not have substantial investment capital.
-
Full-time employees – Another critical requirement for the Business Manager Visa is full-time employees. You must have at least two full-time employees (other than yourself), who must be permanent residents of Japan. Alternatively, one of your full-time employees can be a foreign national with a long-term visa. The Japanese government takes the employment of Japanese citizens seriously, and this requirement ensures that your business will contribute to the local economy by creating job opportunities for Japanese citizens.
-
Physical office space/retail store – Besides the above, you must have a physical office space or store for your business in Japan. An office address is required, which is not valid with a temporary office address or virtual office address. In most cases, residential addresses cannot be used as an office address. To seek support in setting up an office space at a ecognized business address, reach out to serviced offices providers like Compass Offices. Having a physical office space ensures that your business is legitimate and can be easily monitored by the Japanese government.
-
Solid business plan – Your proposed business must be practical and based on a documented business plan. Including a detailed profit and loss statement in the business plan is essential. The immigration office comprehensively determines your eligibility for the Business Manager Visa, considering the investment you put into the company, business stability and credibility, balance of predictable operating profit and loss, amount of employees, and types of business.
The Business Manager Visa is an excellent option if you are a foreign national interested in running a business in Japan. Ensure you meet the requirements mentioned above, and you can enjoy the benefits of operating a business in one of the world’s most fascinating countries.
Application Process
The application process can be daunting, but with the right information, it can be a breeze. Below is a step-by-step guide that will help you navigate it with ease.
Step 1: Research
Start by researching the institution or organisation you are applying to. This will help you understand their requirements and the application process.
Step 2: Create an account
Once you have researched the institution or organisation, you must create an account on their application portal. This will allow you to access the application and track your progress.
Step 3: Complete the application form
Fill out the application form completely and accurately. Review your application before submitting it to ensure all the information is correct.
Step 4: Submit supporting documents
Supporting documents are required to accompany your application. These may include transcripts, test scores, letters of recommendation, and essays. Ensure that you have all the necessary documents before submitting your application.
Step 5: Pay application fee
Application fees are often required to complete the application process. Make sure to pay the application fee before the deadline to avoid any delays in processing your application.
Step 6: Track your application
You should receive a confirmation email after submitting your application. Keep track of your application status and any updates that may be provided.
Required documents may vary depending on the institution or organisation you are applying to. However, common documents that may be required include transcripts, test scores, letters of recommendation, and essays. These documents should be submitted through the application portal or directly to the institution/organisation.
The application process can be straightforward if you follow the steps above and provide all the required documents. Make sure to start the process early to give yourself enough time to complete and submit your application before the deadline.
Renewal of Business Manager Visa
Renewing a business manager visa is an essential process that enables business managers to continue their operations in a foreign country. A business manager visa is a type of visa that is issued to individuals who are responsible for managing a business or companies in a foreign country. The renewal process typically requires the submission of various documents, including a valid passport, a visa application form, and proof of financial stability. Additionally, the applicant must provide evidence that they are still actively managing the business or company in the foreign country. Renewal applications should be submitted well in advance before the visa expiration date to avoid any complications or delays. It is important to note that the specific requirements and procedures for renewing a business manager visa may vary depending on the country and the type of visa. Therefore, it is essential to consult with the relevant embassy or immigration authorities to ensure a smooth and successful renewal process.
Find an office in Japan
If you're looking for flexible office space in Tokyo or Osaka, Compass Offices has got you covered. We offer fully-furnished serviced offices available for short or long term rental at two popular locations in Tokyo - Ebisu Green Glass in Shibuya and Toranomon 40 MT in Minato. In addition, we have offices available in Osaka as well.
Our flexible workspace solutions make it easy for you to set up your office quickly and efficiently, without having to worry about the time, cost, and labor involved in setting up a conventional office space. You'll have access to bilingual support with a professional customer service team well-versed in English and Japanese, as well as an unbranded reception with a team to handle your calls and mails.
At Compass Offices, we understand that running a business can be challenging, which is why we partner with corporate services providers to help fulfill your business needs – from corporate secretarial services to accounting services and more.
How to Apply?
When you are ready to apply, you may want to make an enquiry with your local Consulate-General of Japan, or consult with specialists. See the Japan External Trade Organisation’s reference here.
Please note that the terms and conditions for the Business Manager Visa application is subject to change. For other visas, information and updates, please refer to the Immigration Services Agency of Japan site here.