Business Manager Visa in Japan | Application Guide and Requirements

This application is for those who wish to newly enter Japan under this visa status.
The required documents vary depending on your category. Please submit the documents corresponding to your applicable category.
Document Checklist (All Categories) [PDF: 91KB]
Document Checklist (Categories 3 & 4 Only – For Engaging in Business Operation) [PDF: 445KB]
Document Checklist (Categories 3 & 4 Only – For Engaging in Business Management) [PDF: 444KB]

①Required Documents for Certificate of Eligibility Application (Common to All Categories)

【Common to All Categories】

Application for Certificate of Eligibility (1 copy)
Download from the following links:
Certificate of Eligibility Application Form (PDF: 322KB)
Certificate of Eligibility Application Form (Excel: 140KB)

Photograph (1 piece)
Prepare a photograph that meets the specified requirements and attach it to the application form.
* You may print the photo directly in the designated area on the form. However, if the photo does not meet the specified standards, you may be required to resubmit an appropriate one.

Self-addressed return envelope (1 copy)
Use a standard-size envelope, write your address on it clearly, and affix the required postage for simplified registered mail.

Documents proving your applicable category (as appropriate)
If you cannot provide any relevant documents, you will be classified as Category 4.

Category 1

・Copy of the “Shikiho” (Quarterly Corporate Report) or a document proving that the company is listed on a Japanese stock exchange
・Document proving that the company was established with the permission of the competent authorities (copy)
・Document proving that the company is recognized as an “Innovative Startup Company” eligible for additional points under the Highly Skilled Professional system (e.g., a copy of subsidy grant notification)
・Other documents proving that the company meets the specific conditions (e.g., copy of certification, etc.)

Category 2

・Copy of the statutory report summary table, including the total amount of withholding tax on employment income for the previous year
・Document proving that the organization has received approval to use the Online Residence Application System (e.g., notification email of approval)
(Note: This only applies to organizations that have submitted proof qualifying as Category 3 and have received approval for online system usage.)

Category 3

・Copy of the statutory report summary table, including the total amount of withholding tax on employment income for the previous year

Category Details and Required Documents by Category

Category 1

Institutions that fall under any of the following:

• Companies listed on a Japanese stock exchange
• Mutual companies engaged in the insurance business
• National or local governments of Japan or foreign countries
• Independent administrative institutions
• Special corporations or authorized corporations
• Public interest corporations approved by the Japanese national or local governments
• Public corporations listed in Appendix 1 of the Corporation Tax Act
• Companies eligible for additional points in the Highly Skilled Professional system (Category I or II under the table of Article 1, Paragraph 1 of the Ministerial Ordinance) – so-called “Innovation Promotion Companies”
  
  * For applicable companies, please refer to the “List of Measures to Support Innovation Promotion.”
• Companies that meet certain conditions (PDF: 42KB)

Category 2

Institutions that fall under any of the following:

• Entities or individuals whose total amount of withholding tax on employment income in the statutory report for the previous year is 10 million yen or more
• Institutions that have submitted documentation proving they fall under Category 3 and have received approval to use the Online Residence Application System

Category 3

• Entities or individuals that submitted the statutory summary table of withholding tax on employment income for the previous year (excluding those falling under Category 2)

Required Documents for Category 3

[Common Documents] Items 1 to 4

5. One of the following documents clarifying the applicant’s activities:

• (1) If assuming a position as an executive of a Japanese corporation: A copy of the company’s Articles of Incorporation specifying the executive’s remuneration, or minutes of the shareholders’ meeting approving the remuneration (or minutes of the remuneration committee if applicable) – 1 copy
• (2) If transferring to a Japanese branch of a foreign company or assuming an executive role in a non-corporate organization: A document from the organization specifying the position (duties), duration, and remuneration (e.g., transfer order or assignment notice) – 1 copy
• (3) If being employed as a manager in Japan: A document clarifying the working conditions issued to the employee in accordance with Article 15, Paragraph 1 of the Labor Standards Act and Article 5 of the Ordinance for Enforcement of the Labor Standards Act (e.g., employment contract) – 1 copy

6. If employed as a manager in Japan, documents proving at least three years of experience in business management or administration (including time spent studying relevant subjects at graduate school):

• (1) A resume specifying institutions involved, nature of work, and duration – 1 copy
• (2) Documents proving the duration of relevant experience (including certificates from graduate schools showing enrollment in relevant courses) – 1 copy

7. One of the following documents clarifying the business details:

• (1) If the business is conducted by a corporation: A copy of the company’s certificate of registered matters (if registration is not yet complete, then Articles of Incorporation or equivalent documents clarifying intent to start the business) – 1 copy
  * Applicable to both establishment of a Japanese corporation and setting up a branch of a foreign corporation in Japan
• (2) A company brochure describing company history, officers, organization, business content (including major clients and transactions) – 1 copy
• (3) Other documents equivalent to (2) prepared by the company – 1 copy

8. One of the following documents clarifying the scale of the business:

• (1) Documents related to wage payments and residence records proving that there are at least two full-time employees
• (2) Certificate of registered matters – 1 copy
  * Not required if already submitted under 7(1)
• (3) Other documents clarifying the scale of the business – 1 copy

9. Documents clarifying the existence of office facilities:

• (1) Certified copy of real estate registry – 1 copy
• (2) Lease agreement – 1 copy
• (3) Other relevant documents – 1 copy

10. A copy of the business plan – 1 copy

11. A copy of the financial statement for the most recent fiscal year – 1 copy

Category 4

• Entities or individuals that do not fall under any of the categories listed on the left (Categories 1, 2, or 3).

Required Documents for Category 4

[Common to all Categories] Items 1 to 4

5. Documents clarifying the applicant’s role and activities (one of the following):
(1) If the applicant is appointed as a director of a Japanese corporation: One copy of the articles of incorporation stipulating the director’s remuneration or minutes of the general meeting of shareholders that resolved the remuneration (or minutes of the remuneration committee, if applicable).
(2) If the applicant is transferred to a Japanese branch of a foreign corporation, or appointed as a director of a non-corporate entity: One copy of a document from the organization specifying position (job responsibilities), period, and remuneration (e.g., transfer order, reassignment notice).
(3) If the applicant is hired as a manager in Japan: One copy of a document clarifying the working conditions based on Article 15, Paragraph 1 of the Labor Standards Act and Article 5 of its Enforcement Regulations (e.g., employment contract).

6. Documents proving more than 3 years of experience in business management or administration (including relevant academic study):
(1) One copy of a CV specifying the organizations the applicant has worked for, duties, and period of employment.
(2) One copy of a document certifying the length of service in relevant positions (including a certificate from a graduate school indicating courses related to management or administration).

7. Documents clarifying the business content (one of the following):
(1) If the business is conducted through a corporation: One copy of a certified copy of the corporate registry (if registration is not complete, one copy of documents such as articles of incorporation showing intent to start the business).
Note: This applies regardless of whether a Japanese corporation is established or a branch of a foreign corporation is opened in Japan.
(2) One copy of a company brochure detailing the company’s history, executives, organization, business content (including major clients and business records), etc.
(3) One copy of any other document equivalent to (2) created by the company.

8. Documents clarifying the business scale (one of the following):
(1) Documents related to wage payments and residence certificates showing that at least two full-time employees are employed.
(2) One copy of a certified copy of the corporate registry.
Note: Not required if submitted in 7(1).
(3) One copy of any other document clarifying the business scale.

9. Documents proving the existence of an office facility (one of the following):
(1) One copy of the real estate registry certificate.
(2) One copy of the lease agreement.
(3) One copy of any other relevant document.

10. One copy of the business plan.

11. One copy of the latest financial statement.

If the statutory report on employment income (Gensen Choshu-hyo, etc.) for the previous year cannot be submitted, submit one of the following to explain the reason:
(1) If the organization is exempt from withholding:
One copy of a certificate of exemption from withholding tax issued to a foreign corporation, or other documents showing no obligation to withhold.
(2) For organizations other than (1):

12. One copy of the “Notification of Opening a Salary Payment Office” (Kyuyo Shiharai Jimusho no Kaishi Todokede-sho).

Submit one of the following:
(a) One copy of the “Withholding Income Tax Payment Slip” (Shotokuzei Choshu-daka Keisansho) for the most recent three months (with revenue stamp receipt date).
(b) One copy of a document proving approval for the “special provision on tax payment due dates” (Noki no Tokurei).

② Application for Change of Status of Residence

This application is for individuals who are already residing in Japan under a different status of residence and intend to change their activities to those corresponding to this status.

The required documents vary depending on your applicable category.
Please submit the documents according to your category.

If you intend to engage in activities that fall under this status, you must apply as soon as possible.
Failure to engage in activities consistent with your current status of residence may result in the revocation of your status.

• [Checklist of Required Documents (Common to All Categories)](PDF: 85KB)
• [Checklist of Required Documents (For Categories 3 and 4 only) – For Those Engaging in Business Management](PDF: 444KB)
• [Checklist of Required Documents (For Categories 3 and 4 only) – For Those Engaging in Business Administration](PDF: 444KB)

② Required Documents for Application for Change of Status of Residence(Common to All Categories)

【Common Documents】

Required Documents for Change of Status of Residence Application (Applicable to All Categories)

• Application for Change of Status of Residence – 1 copy
  Downloadable from the following links:
  • [Application Form (PDF: 313KB)]
  • [Application Form (Excel: 134KB)]
• Photograph – 1 copy
  Prepare a photograph that meets the designated specifications and attach it to the application form.
  Note: It is acceptable to print the photo directly in the designated area of the form. However, if the photo does not meet the required standards, you may be asked to retake and resubmit it.
  Note: Applicants under the age of 16 do not need to submit a photograph. Also, if you are applying to change your status to a visa category not classified as “mid-to-long-term resident,” no photograph is required.
• Passport and Residence Card – To be presented
• Documents certifying the applicable category – as appropriate
  If you cannot submit relevant documents for Categories 1–3, you will be classified under Category 4. Category 1
  • Copy of the “Shikiho” (Japan Company Handbook), or
  • Document certifying the company is listed on a Japanese stock exchange (copy), or
  • Document certifying permission for incorporation by the relevant government authority (copy), or
  • Document proving the company is designated as an “Innovation Creation Company” under the table in Article 1, Paragraph 1 of the Ordinance for Highly Skilled Professionals (e.g., a copy of a grant approval notice), or
  • Document certifying that the company meets the specified conditions listed under “Certain Certified Companies” (e.g., a copy of the certification)
  Category 2
  • Copy of the statutory report (Gensen Choshu-hyo Aggregate Table) showing the total withholding tax amount for employment income for the previous year, and
  • Document certifying approval to use the Online Residency Application System (e.g., notification email of approval)
    (Only applicable to institutions that have submitted documents to qualify under Category 3 and have received approval to use the online system)
  Category 3
  • Copy of the statutory report (Gensen Choshu-hyo Aggregate Table) for employment income of the previous year

Category Details and Required Documents by Category

Category 1

Institutions falling under any of the following:

• Companies listed on a Japanese stock exchange
• Mutual companies engaged in insurance business
• National or local government bodies of Japan or a foreign country
• Incorporated administrative agencies
• Special corporations or authorized corporations
• Public interest corporations authorized by the national or local governments of Japan
• Public corporations listed in Appendix 1 of the Corporation Tax Act
• Companies that fall under item (i) or (ii) in the “Special Additional Points” column of the table in Article 1, Paragraph 1 of the Ministerial Ordinance on Highly Skilled Professionals (Innovation Creation Companies)
  　Please refer to the “List of Innovation Promotion Support Measures” at the linked source for applicable companies.
• Other companies or entities that meet certain specified conditions (PDF: 42KB)

Category 2

Institutions or individuals that fall under either of the following:

• Entities or individuals whose Total Statement of Withholding Records, including the Statement of Withholding for Employment Income for the previous fiscal year, shows a total withholding tax amount of 10 million yen or more
• Institutions that have:
  1. Submitted documents proving eligibility under Category 3, and
  2. Been approved for use of the Online Residency Application System

Category 3

• Institutions or individuals (excluding those under Category 2) who have submitted the Total Statement of Withholding Records for employment income, etc. for the previous fiscal year.

Category 3: Required Documents

[Common Documents: 1 to 4]

5. Documents that clarify the applicant’s intended activities (submit one of the following):
   (1) If the applicant will assume a director position at a Japanese company:
       – A copy of the Articles of Incorporation specifying the director’s remuneration, or
       – A copy of the minutes of the shareholders’ meeting that resolved the director’s remuneration (or the minutes of the Compensation Committee, if such a committee exists).
   (2) If the applicant will be transferred to a Japanese branch of a foreign company, or will assume a director position in a non-corporate organization:
       – A document issued by the organization clarifying the position (duties), period of appointment, and remuneration amount (e.g., assignment order or transfer notice).
   (3) If the applicant will be employed as a manager in Japan:
       – A document clarifying employment conditions issued pursuant to Article 15(1) of the Labor Standards Act and Article 5 of its Enforcement Regulations (e.g., employment contract).
6. If the applicant will be employed as a manager in Japan, documents proving at least 3 years of experience in business management or administration
       (including time spent in a graduate program majoring in relevant subjects):
   (1) A résumé clearly indicating the institutions where the applicant engaged in relevant duties, along with descriptions of those duties and the period of service.
   (2) Documents proving the duration of relevant work experience
         (including certificates from graduate schools indicating the period spent studying business or management subjects).
7. Documents that clarify the nature of the business (submit one of the following):
   (1) If the business is conducted through a corporation:
       – A copy of the certificate of registered matters (登記事項証明書).
       – If registration has not yet been completed, a copy of the Articles of Incorporation or other documents proving that the business is about to commence.
       (Applies regardless of whether the business is a newly established Japanese corporation or a Japanese branch of a foreign corporation.)
   (2) A brochure that includes a detailed history of the organization, executive structure, organizational structure, business activities, and major clients and transaction history.
   (3) Other documents prepared by the organization that serve a similar function to item (2).
8. Documents that clarify the scale of the business (submit one of the following):
   (1) Documents proving that there are at least two full-time employees, including wage payment records and residence certificates.
   (2) Certificate of registered matters (1 copy).
       (Unnecessary if already submitted under 7(1).)
   (3) Other documents that clarify the scale of the business.
9. Documents proving the existence of office facilities (submit one of the following):
   (1) Certified copy of the property registry (不動産登記簿謄本).
   (2) Lease agreement.
   (3) Other relevant documents.
10. A copy of the business plan (1 copy)
11. A copy of the most recent fiscal year’s financial statements (1 copy)

Category 4

• Organizations or individuals that do not fall under any of the categories listed on the left (Categories 1 to 3).

Required Documents for Category 4

[Common to All] Items 1 to 4

5. Documents that clarify the details of the applicant’s activities (submit one of the following):

1. If assuming a position as a company executive of a Japanese corporation:
   A copy of the Articles of Incorporation specifying executive compensation, or minutes of the general shareholders meeting resolving executive compensation (or minutes of the compensation committee if such exists). One copy.
2. If transferring to a Japanese branch of a foreign corporation or assuming a position as an executive in a non-corporate organization:
   A document issued by the organization that clarifies the position (assigned duties), duration, and amount of compensation (e.g., assignment letter or transfer notice). One copy.
3. If employed as a manager in Japan:
   A document that clarifies working conditions issued in accordance with Article 15, Paragraph 1 of the Labor Standards Act and Article 5 of its Enforcement Regulations (e.g., employment contract). One copy.

6. Documents proving three or more years of experience in business management or administration in Japan (including periods of graduate studies in relevant subjects):

1. Resume specifying the institutions where the applicant engaged in relevant work, the activities, and duration. One copy.
2. Documents proving the period of engagement in relevant work (including certificates from graduate schools showing periods of study in business or management). One copy.

7. Documents clarifying the business details (submit one of the following):

1. If conducted by a corporation: A copy of the Certificate of Registered Matters of the corporation. If registration is not complete, a copy of the Articles of Incorporation or other documents proving intent to start the business. One copy.
   (* Applies whether establishing a new Japanese corporation or setting up a Japanese branch of a foreign corporation.)
2. A company brochure or similar document detailing company history, executives, organizational structure, and business content (including main business partners and track record). One copy.
3. Other documents created by the company equivalent to item (2) above. One copy.

8. Documents clarifying the scale of the business (submit one of the following):

1. Documents related to wage payments and residence certificates proving the presence of at least two full-time employees.
2. Certificate of Registered Matters. One copy.
   (* Not required if already submitted under 7(1).)
3. Other documents clarifying the scale of the business. One copy.

9. Documents proving the existence of office facilities:

1. Certified copy of real estate registry. One copy.
2. Lease contract. One copy.
3. Other supporting documents. One copy.

10. Copy of the business plan. One copy.

11. Copy of the most recent fiscal year’s financial statements. One copy.

If unable to submit the statutory total withholding tax report for employees’ salary income for the previous year, submit one of the following to explain the reason:

1. If exempt from withholding tax:
   Certificate of exemption for withholding tax or other documents clarifying that withholding tax is not required. One copy.
2. If not applicable under item (1):
   – Copy of the Notification of Establishment of a Salary-Paying Office. One copy.
   – One of the following documents:
   (a) Copy of the Statement of Collected Income Tax for Salary, Retirement, etc. for the past three months (with receipt stamp). One copy.
   (b) Documents proving the approval for the special payment system. One copy.

This application is for individuals who are already residing in Japan under this residence status and wish to continue the same activities.

The required documents vary depending on the applicable category. Please submit documents corresponding to your category.

Checklist of required documents (PDF: 106KB)

③ Application for Extension of Period of Stay (Common Documents Across All Categories)

[Common Documents]

Application for Extension of Period of Stay – 1 copy
Available for download from the following:

• [Application Form (PDF: 312KB)]
• [Application Form (Excel: 134KB)]

Photograph – 1 photo
Please prepare a photo that meets the designated specifications and attach it to the application form.

• You may print the photo directly on the designated space of the application form, but if the photo does not meet the required specifications, you may be asked to retake it.
• Applicants under the age of 16 are not required to submit a photo.
• A photo is also not required for applicants who are not classified as mid- to long-term residents, or for those applying for an extension of 3 months or less.

Passport and Residence Card – To be presented

Documents certifying that the applicant falls under one of the categories above – As applicable
(If no documents can be submitted, the applicant will be treated as falling under Category 4.)

• Category 1:
  • A copy of the company’s listing in the Japan Company Handbook or documents certifying that the company is listed on a Japanese stock exchange
  • A copy of a permit issued by the relevant ministry for establishment
  • Documents certifying that the company is designated as an “innovation-generating enterprise” under the Special Points for Highly Skilled Professionals (e.g., copy of subsidy grant notification)
  • Documents certifying that the company meets certain specified conditions (e.g., copy of certification, etc.)
• Category 2:
  • Copy of the statutory report (e.g., total summary table of withholding tax for salary income of employees from the previous year)
  • Documents certifying that the organization has received approval for using the Online Residency Application System (e.g., notification email of approval)
    Note: Only applicable to organizations that have submitted proof of falling under Category 3 and have received system use approval.
• Category 3:
  • Copy of the statutory report (e.g., total summary table of withholding tax for salary income of employees from the previous year)

Category Details and Required Documents by Category

Category 1

An organization that falls under any of the following:

• A company listed on a Japanese stock exchange
• A mutual company engaged in the insurance business
• The national or local government of Japan or a foreign country
• An incorporated administrative agency
• A special corporation or an authorized corporation
• A public interest incorporated association or foundation authorized by the Japanese national or local government
• A public corporation listed in Table 1 of the Corporation Tax Act
• A company designated under the column “i” or “ro” of the “Special Additional Points” section in the table of Article 1, Paragraph 1 of the Ordinance on Highly Skilled Foreign Professionals (i.e., Innovation-Driven Companies)
  Please refer to the “List of Measures to Promote Innovation” via the relevant link.
• A company or organization that meets certain designated conditions (PDF: 42KB)

Category 2

An organization or individual that meets either of the following conditions:

• An organization or individual whose total amount of withholding tax on employment income, as stated in the “Total Table of Statutory Reports such as Withholding Records” for the previous year, exceeds 10 million yen
• An organization approved for the use of the Online Residence Application System, after submitting documents proving it falls under Category 3

Category 3

• An organization or individual (excluding those in Category 2) that has submitted the “Total Table of Statutory Reports such as Withholding Records” for the previous year

Required Documents for Category 3

[Common Items] 1 to 4
(Same as listed in the shared required documents section)

5. A copy of the financial statement for the most recent fiscal year

• 1 copy

6. Certificate of Residence Tax (Taxable or Non-taxable) and Tax Payment Certificate

• Each 1 copy
• These must state total annual income and tax payment status

Notes:

• These certificates are issued by the municipal office (ward/city/town office) where you were registered as a resident as of January 1.
• If one certificate includes both total annual income and tax payment status, submitting that one document alone is acceptable.
• If you recently entered Japan or have moved and are unable to obtain these certificates from your current municipal office, please consult with your nearest Regional Immigration Services Bureau.

Category 4

• Organizations or individuals that do not fall under any of the above categories.

Required Documents for Category 4

[Common Documents] Items 1–4

5. A copy of the financial statements for the most recent fiscal year – 1 copy
6. Certificate of resident tax payment (or exemption) and tax certificate showing both the total income and tax payment status for one year – 1 copy each
   Notes:

• These certificates are issued by the municipal office (city/ward/town office) where you reside as of January 1.
• If either certificate includes both the total income and tax payment status, submission of just one of them is acceptable.
• If you are newly arrived in Japan or unable to obtain the documents due to relocation, please consult with your nearest Regional Immigration Services Bureau.

7. Certificate of exemption from withholding tax for foreign corporations, or other documents that clarify that withholding tax is not required – 1 copy

When establishing a company in Japan, the capital must be deposited into a bank account under the name of a promoter (founder) within Japan.

If you have a local partner, you may be able to transfer the capital into their bank account.
However, if you are starting the business alone, you will need to open a bank account in your own name in Japan.

In some cases, it becomes possible to open a bank account after receiving a 4-month “Business Manager” visa and obtaining a residence card.
That said, many banks in Japan require a period of stay of at least 6 months to open an account.

For this reason, it is generally more practical to work with a local partner and aim to obtain a 1-year Business Manager visa instead of the 4-month version.
Your partner can be either a Japanese national or a foreign resident in Japan.

Even if the business has not yet started, you can still apply for a Business Manager visa, as long as you have secured a facility in Japan that will serve as your business office.

If the rental contract has not yet been finalized at the time of application, you must submit a floor plan and a certification document from the real estate agency showing the contract is in progress.
However, virtual offices or spaces used solely as mailing addresses are not accepted as business offices.

In addition, apartments or condominiums labeled as “residential use only” in the lease contract cannot be used for business purposes.
Short-term rentals (such as those with one-month contracts) are also not accepted.

Moreover, if you hold only a 4-month visa and therefore do not yet have a registered address (resident record), it may be extremely difficult to find a landlord willing to rent an office space to you.

While the legal requirement for capital has become less explicit in recent years, a capital amount of at least 5 million yen is still considered a practical minimum for obtaining a Business Manager visa.

Even if you prepare this amount, you must also provide proof of the source of funds — for example, whether it came from personal savings or a loan from family or friends.
Supporting documents will need to be attached to explain this clearly.

The business must meet certain scale requirements, one of which is having at least two full-time employees.

However, if the company has capital of at least 5 million yen, a visa may still be granted even without any employees at the time of application.

Full-time employees must be either Japanese nationals or foreign residents with one of the following statuses:

• Permanent Resident
• Spouse of a Japanese National
• Spouse of a Permanent Resident
• Long-term Resident

Please note that the visa applicant themselves cannot be counted as one of the two full-time employees.