Foreign entrepreneurs planning to establish a business in Japan need to consider three separate but closely connected matters: company incorporation, the immigration route that permits business activities, and the practical preparation required to operate the company. The rules for the Status of Residence “Business Manager” were substantially revised on October 16, 2025, so information based on the former JPY 5 million standard should not be used for a new application.
Startup Visa and Business Manager Visa are different routes
Japan’s Startup Visa program allows eligible foreign entrepreneurs to conduct preparatory activities under the Status of Residence “Designated Activities,” after their startup plan has been confirmed by an approved local government or private organization. It is not the same as the Status of Residence “Business Manager,” and availability, eligible industries and support conditions depend on the implementing organization.
The Business Manager status is the ordinary residence status for a person who actually manages or administers a business in Japan. Incorporating a company does not by itself guarantee immigration approval. The business must be real, sustainable and supported by consistent documents.
Main Business Manager requirements from October 16, 2025
- A genuine business office must exist in Japan.
- The total value of property used for the business, including capital or contributions, must generally be at least JPY 30 million.
- The business must employ at least one qualifying full-time employee.
- Either the applicant or a qualifying full-time employee must have Japanese ability broadly equivalent to CEFR B2.
- The applicant must have at least three years of experience in business management or administration, or hold a master’s-equivalent or higher degree in management or the relevant business field.
- A new business plan must generally be reviewed by a person with appropriate professional knowledge.
The precise evidence and treatment depend on the applicant, the business and applicable transitional rules. Applications are examined individually, and no professional can guarantee approval.
Company formation, funding and bank preparation
A company may be incorporated before the immigration application, but the sequence should be planned carefully. Matters such as the shareholder structure, remittance trail, capital payment evidence, office lease, business licences and corporate bank account preparation may affect the overall schedule. Opening a corporate bank account is subject to each bank’s independent review and cannot be guaranteed.
How Seiwa Legal Office can assist
- Incorporation of a Kabushiki Kaisha (K.K.) or Godo Kaisha (G.K.)
- Articles of incorporation and commercial registration
- Review of the proposed schedule for incorporation and residence procedures
- Immigration document preparation within the scope of an authorized immigration procedures specialist
- Coordination of related registrations, licences and filings
- Direct communication in English, Chinese and Japanese
For a detailed overview, please also see our company formation guide and Business Manager Visa guide.
Information helpful for an initial consultation
- Your nationality and current country of residence
- Proposed business activities and location in Japan
- Planned investment amount and source of funds
- Ownership and management structure
- Relevant education and management experience
- Target date for starting the business
Last reviewed: July 2026. This article provides general information and is not a guarantee of immigration or banking approval. Official references: Immigration Services Agency of Japan and the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.