How to Get a Business Manager Visa in Japan: A Complete Guide for Foreign Entrepreneurs

For foreign entrepreneurs dreaming of launching a business in Japan, the Business Manager Visa is the key to turning that dream into reality. This visa allows non-Japanese nationals to live in Japan while managing or starting a company—and it’s a critical part of Japan’s broader push to attract international talent and investment.

In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about the Business Manager Visa, from eligibility criteria and required documents to timelines and pro tips for success. Whether you’re starting from scratch or transitioning from a Startup Visa, here’s how to make your Japanese business journey legal and smooth.

What is the Business Manager Visa?

The Business Manager Visa (経営・管理ビザ) is a long-term residence visa granted to foreign nationals who wish to:

• Start and operate their own business in Japan
• Manage an existing business as an executive

It is one of the most accessible visa categories for entrepreneurs and is typically issued in durations of 1, 3, or 5 years, depending on the strength of your application.

Who Is Eligible for the Business Manager Visa?

To qualify, you must:

• Establish a legal business entity in Japan (e.g., GK or KK)
• Have a physical office address (virtual offices are often acceptable)
• Invest at least 5 million yen (approx. USD 33,000) in capital
• Submit a viable business plan
• Show intent to hire or already have at least one full-time local employee (preferred, not mandatory at start)

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for the Business Manager Visa

Step 1: Set Up a Legal Entity (GK or KK)

Choose between a Godo Kaisha (GK) or Kabushiki Kaisha (KK). Both are valid company types. See our GK vs KK blog for a detailed comparison.

Step 2: Secure an Office Address

Japan requires a real business address to register your company. JapanFlex.com offers virtual offices in Tokyo that fulfill this requirement.

Step 3: Open a Business Bank Account

Deposit your capital (minimum 5 million yen) into a Japanese corporate bank account. This proves your investment to immigration authorities.

Step 4: Prepare a Business Plan

Write a detailed plan including:

• Nature of business
• Target market
• Revenue forecast
• Hiring strategy
• Marketing approach

A well-documented, realistic plan is crucial for visa approval.

Step 5: Submit Your Visa Application

Apply for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) through Japan’s Immigration Services. Once approved, you can apply for the visa itself through your local Japanese embassy or consulate.

Required Documents

Here are the main documents needed for your application:

• Certificate of company registration (登記簿謄本)
• Articles of Incorporation
• Lease agreement for office space
• Bank statements showing 5 million yen deposit
• Detailed business plan
• Company seal (hanko)
• Passport and photos
• Application forms provided by the Immigration Bureau

Documents must be translated into Japanese where applicable.

Timeline and Processing

• Company registration: 2–3 weeks
• COE processing: 1–3 months
• Visa issuance (after COE): 1–2 weeks at your local consulate

Total estimated time from planning to visa approval: 2–4 months

Can You Apply Without Living in Japan Yet?

Yes. You can:

• Register a company remotely
• Use a virtual office address
• Appoint a local representative temporarily

Once the COE is issued, you can enter Japan and finalize operational steps.

What Happens After You Get the Visa?

After you receive the visa, you must:

• Continue business activities as described in your plan
• Keep your office active and accessible
• File taxes and renew your company registration
• Prepare for possible inspections from immigration officials

Failure to comply may lead to visa revocation.

Business Manager Visa vs Startup Visa

Many entrepreneurs begin with a Startup Visa and transition to a Business Manager Visa once their company is operational.

How JapanFlex.com Helps You Get Approved

JapanFlex.com provides comprehensive support for:

• Registering your GK or KK
• Setting up a legal virtual office in Tokyo
• Preparing your business plan in Japanese
• Coordinating with immigration lawyers
• Submitting documents and tracking your COE application

With our bilingual team and step-by-step process, we’ve helped dozens of entrepreneurs obtain the Business Manager Visa smoothly.

Real Success Story

Client: U.K.-based marketing consultant

• Registered a GK remotely with JapanFlex.com
• Used virtual office to fulfill address requirement
• Submitted business plan and COE
• Visa issued in 6 weeks

They now run a boutique agency in Tokyo and have since hired two full-time employees.

Final Thoughts: Turn Your Vision into a Visa

Japan’s Business Manager Visa offers a clear legal path for global entrepreneurs. But success depends on planning, preparation, and local knowledge.

If you’re serious about building a business in Japan, start with the right support team—and your dream can become a reality.

Start Your Business in Japan with JapanFlex.com

At JapanFlex.com, we specialize in helping foreign entrepreneurs incorporate companies, secure office addresses, and obtain the Business Manager Visa.

Visit https://japanflex.com/ to explore our all-in-one packages designed for foreign founders.

Launch your business. Live your dream. Legally.