In October 2025, Japan’s Immigration Services Agency announced a major reform of the Business Manager Visa under the Ministerial Ordinance on Landing Permission Criteria.
This reform marks a significant shift—from simply meeting formal investment requirements to demonstrating the substance and capability to actually manage a viable business in Japan.
Previously, some visa applications were approved despite having little real business activity. The new system aims to strengthen credibility by ensuring that only entrepreneurs with solid management capacity, sufficient funding, and clear business execution plans can qualify.
Overview – When and What Will Change
The new standards will take effect on October 16, 2025.
Key updates include revised financial thresholds, new requirements for managerial experience or academic background, clearer conditions for hiring and Japanese language ability, and stricter verification of business plans.
In short, Japan is now moving from a form-based approval process to a performance-based evaluation—focusing on whether the applicant can genuinely operate a sustainable business in Japan.
cf. Immigration Services Agency
Key Points of the New Criteria
1．Higher Capital and Financial Requirements
The former minimum investment of 5 million yen will be raised 30 million yen.
2．Managerial Experience or Education Requirement
Applicants must have at least three years of relevant management experience or hold an advanced degree in business, management, or a related field.
This ensures that the applicant possesses real capability—not just financial resources—to oversee operations.
3．Mandatory Employment of Full-Time Staff
At least one full-time employee must be hired. Proof such as employment contracts, payroll records, and social insurance enrollment will be required.
4．Japanese Language Ability
Either the applicant or key managerial staff must demonstrate business-level Japanese proficiency—approximately JLPT N2 or equivalent.
This enables smooth communication with Japanese clients, officials, and partners.
5．Verified and Realistic Business Plan
A new requirement calls for third-party verification (by a certified tax accountant, SME consultant, or CPA) of the submitted business plan.
Authorities will check not only the structure but also the feasibility and financial soundness of the plan.
6．Office and Facility Requirements
Home-based offices or virtual addresses will generally no longer be accepted. Applicants must maintain an independent and functional office equipped for real business activity.
Overall, these changes aim to ensure that applicants are genuine business operators, not paper entrepreneurs.
Transition Measures and Key Dates
Applications submitted before October 15, 2025 will still be reviewed under the old standards.
However, renewals and extensions after October 16 will generally follow the new criteria.
Existing visa holders should therefore prepare early for compliance—especially regarding full-time employment and language requirements.
Although transitional arrangements may be applied, building a compliant business structure now will prevent renewal risks later.
Impact on Current and Pending Applications
Those already holding a Business Manager Visa can continue their stay, but the next renewal will likely be assessed under the new rules.
Pending applications submitted before the enforcement date will be judged by the old criteria.
Still, it’s advisable for current visa holders to start adapting—securing qualified staff, ensuring transparency of funding, and aligning business plans with the revised framework.
Early preparation will provide a smoother transition and demonstrate credibility during future renewals.
Practical Steps for Applicants and Advisors
To meet the new standards effectively, consider the following steps:
- Document the Funding Source – Keep clear records of bank transfers and avoid unexplained cash transactions.
- Hire and Register Employees – Prepare labor contracts, salary statements, and social insurance proof.
- Prove Japanese Communication Ability – Provide JLPT N2 certificates or equivalent documentation.
- Validate Your Business Plan – Obtain verification from a licensed tax accountant or business consultant.
- Ensure a Real Office – Provide lease agreements and photos demonstrating physical business activity.
Administrative scriveners (Gyoseishoshi) should go beyond documentation—offering holistic support from business design to compliance monitoring.
Conclusion : Risks, Opportunities, and Strategic Response
While the new system raises entry barriers for small-scale entrepreneurs, it also enhances the credibility and reputation of legitimate foreign businesses in Japan.
Those who adapt early can stand out as trustworthy operators.
The 2025 reform of the Business Manager Visa represents a turning point toward quality, transparency, and long-term business success in Japan.
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