Business Manager Visa Application Process & Required Documents

Obtaining the Business Manager visa involves several connected steps. Knowing the flow helps you plan ahead.

The Business Manager visa (Japan) application runs in four stages: a free eligibility check, company formation with an independent office, preparation of an expert-verified business plan and supporting documents, and filing with the Immigration Services Agency for screening and approval. Under the 2025 reform (effective October 16, 2025) you must meet the higher standards — capital of 30 million yen or more, at least one full-time employee, and Japanese language ability around JLPT N2 / CEFR B2 — before the visa is granted. Plan for roughly 3 to 6 months overall.

Application steps

1. Free consultation and eligibility check — we confirm whether you meet the current requirements and map out your route.
2. Company formation and securing an independent office — incorporate your company (coordinated with a partner judicial scrivener) and lease a dedicated business office.
3. Preparing the expert-verified business plan and documents — assemble the capital evidence, business plan, and personal records.
4. Filing with Immigration, screening, and approval — submit the Certificate of Eligibility application, respond to any queries, and obtain the visa.

Typical timeframe

From starting with company formation to obtaining the visa, allow roughly 3 to 6 months. The screening itself usually takes about 1 to 3 months, and a complete, well-prepared business plan is the single biggest factor in avoiding delays. See our fees for the cost of each stage.

Main required documents

• Application form, photo, passport / residence card copies
• CV and career history (3+ years of management experience) or a relevant master's degree, graduation / degree certificates
• Company registration, articles of incorporation, and evidence of capital of 30 million yen or more and its source
• Employment contracts and social insurance records for the full-time employee
• Expert-verified business plan, independent office lease and photos

For full eligibility details, see Requirements and About the Business Manager Visa. Existing visa holders have a three-year transition period until October 16, 2028 to meet the new standards.

Frequently asked questions

How long does the Business Manager visa application take?

Allow roughly 3 to 6 months from company formation to obtaining the visa. The Immigration screening itself usually takes about 1 to 3 months, depending on the completeness of your business plan and documents.

What documents are required for the Business Manager visa?

Core documents include the application form and photo, passport and residence card copies, a CV showing management experience or a relevant master's degree, company registration and articles of incorporation, evidence of capital of 30 million yen or more and its source, an expert-verified business plan, and the lease and photos of an independent office.

Do I need to set up a company before applying?

Yes. Under the 2025 reform you must establish a company, secure an independent business office, and meet the capital requirement of 30 million yen or more and at least one full-time employee before or alongside the application. We coordinate company formation with a partner judicial scrivener — book a free consultation to get started.