Japan Business Manager Visa Requirements (2025 revised)

To get Japan's Business Manager visa for applications filed on or after October 16, 2025, you must meet six requirements: capital (investment) of at least 30 million yen, at least one full-time employee, Japanese ability of JLPT N2 / CEFR B2 (applicant or a staff member), 3+ years of management experience or a master's degree, a business plan verified by an expert, and independent business premises. See the 2025 reform for what changed, or an overview of the visa.

The full-time employee must be a Japanese national, special permanent resident, or a person holding a status in Appendix II (permanent resident, spouse of Japanese national, etc.). Part-time workers and foreigners on work visas do not count.

Each requirement explained

1. Capital (investment) of 30 million yen or more

The investment amount must be at least 30 million yen, up from the previous 5 million yen. You also need to show the lawful source of the funds — personal savings, a loan, or remittance — with supporting evidence. Borrowed "show money" parked temporarily in an account is not accepted.

2. At least one full-time employee

You must employ one or more full-time staff who are Japanese nationals, special permanent residents, or Appendix II status holders. This replaces the old "5 million yen or two staff" rule.

3. Japanese ability (JLPT N2 / CEFR B2)

Either the applicant or a full-time employee must hold Japanese ability at JLPT N2 / CEFR B2 level. Where a qualifying staff member covers this, the applicant does not need to clear it personally.

4. Management experience or academic background

You need at least three years of business management experience, or a master's degree or higher in a related field. Either path is acceptable, and the experience or degree should connect logically to the planned business.

5. Expert-verified business plan

The business plan must be reviewed and confirmed by a qualified expert — a registered management consultant (中小企業診断士), certified public accountant, or tax accountant. A plan submitted without this verification will not be accepted.

6. Independent business premises

You must secure an independent office with real substance — a virtual office or a residence used as a home is generally not enough. The premises should be ready to operate the business immediately.

Frequently asked questions

What are the main Business Manager visa requirements in Japan in 2025?

Since October 16, 2025 there are six standards: 30 million yen capital, at least one full-time employee, Japanese N2 / B2 (applicant or staff), three years of management experience or a master's degree, an expert-verified business plan, and independent business premises.

How much capital do I need after the 2025 reform?

At least 30 million yen, up from 5 million yen. You also need to explain the lawful source of the funds. See the 2025 reform page for details.

Do existing visa holders have to meet the new requirements immediately?

No. People who held the status before the reform have a three-year transitional period until October 16, 2028. Renewals in that window assess whether you are on track to meet the new standards, so prepare early.

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