Japan raises capital requirement for business manager visa to 30 million yen

Japan will tighten the rules for foreigners applying for its business manager residency status from Thursday. The government said the minimum capital required will rise from 5 million yen to 30 million yen, increasing the entry bar for business operators seeking to live and work in the country.

Under the new regulation, applicants must have at least three years of managerial experience or hold a master’s degree or higher. They must also hire at least one full-time employee and have their business plan certified by approved accountants. In addition, either the applicant or an employee must possess a certain level of Japanese language proficiency.

The government will exclude outsourcing and “minpaku” private lodging businesses from eligibility. It will also check tax and social security payment records when the visa is renewed.


Currently, the visa can be obtained with 5 million yen in capital or by employing two or more full-time workers. The new standards aim to ensure that business operators contribute to Japan’s economy in a sustainable and compliant manner.

About the Business Manager Visa
Japan’s Business Manager Visa allows foreign nationals to start and operate a business in the country. It serves as a pathway to long-term residency, enabling holders to manage companies or branches legally within Japan.

Applicants are typically required to set up a physical office, register a company, and submit a detailed business plan to immigration authorities. The visa’s validity period usually ranges from one to five years, depending on the applicant’s compliance and business performance.

The government periodically reviews the visa framework to prevent misuse and to encourage genuine business investment. With the new rules, Japan seeks to attract experienced entrepreneurs and investors who can contribute to innovation and job creation while ensuring proper adherence to local regulations.