If you're a foreign national considering launching a business in Japan, there's a major update you need to be aware of. Starting from October 2025, the Japanese government will significantly tighten the requirements for obtaining a Business Manager Visa — a key visa for foreign entrepreneurs.

Current Requirements for the Business Manager Visa

At present, applicants can obtain the visa by investing at least ¥5 million (approx. £27,000) in capital or by employing two full-time residents of Japan. This relatively accessible route has attracted many aspiring entrepreneurs from abroad.

Key Change: Capital Requirement Increases to ¥30 Million

Under the proposed revision, the minimum investment amount will be raised six-fold to ¥30 million (approx. £160,000). This change alone could make the visa out of reach for many small-scale entrepreneurs or solo founders.

New Requirement: You Must Hire at Least One Local Full-Time Employee

Unlike the current system where investment alone can qualify you, the revised rules will require all applicants to hire at least one full-time employee who resides in Japan. This makes having a physical and operational business presence more essential than ever.

Experience or Academic Credentials Now Required

In addition to the financial requirement, applicants must either have a minimum of three years’ experience in a managerial role or possess a postgraduate degree in business management or a related field. This signals a shift towards prioritising business credentials and leadership background.

Business Plan to Be Evaluated by a Professional Consultant

Another major change is the mandatory review of the business plan by a professional management consultant at the time of application — unless the applicant is launching a business equivalent in size to a listed company. This places a stronger emphasis on having a solid, credible business plan.

Why the Changes? A Response to Rising Abuse of the System

According to Japan’s Immigration Services Agency (ISA), the reforms are intended to curb abuse of the system, particularly cases involving fake companies or falsified documents used for visa renewals. Over 90% of suspicious visa renewals were reportedly denied after inspections between 2023 and 2024.

What About Current Visa Holders?

It remains unclear whether existing visa holders will be required to meet the new standards upon renewal. Only 4% of companies currently held by Business Manager Visa holders have over ¥30 million in capital — so the decision will impact thousands of foreign-run businesses.

Surge in Foreign Entrepreneurs in Recent Years

The number of visa holders rose from 31,808 in 2022 to 41,615 by the end of 2024. Over half of these are Chinese nationals, with entrepreneurs from Nepal, South Korea, Vietnam, and Pakistan also making up significant numbers.

What You Should Do Now

If you’re planning to apply for a Business Manager Visa, now is the time to act. Applications made before the October 2025 changes are likely to be assessed under the current, more lenient criteria. Begin gathering documents, preparing your business plan, and confirming your capital investment as soon as possible.

Why Consulting an Immigration Specialist Matters More Than Ever

With these new complexities, professional support can make a world of difference. Immigration experts, such as Gyoseishoshi (certified administrative lawyers), can assist you with preparing accurate documentation, validating your business experience, and strengthening your application through properly structured business plans.

Final Thoughts

This upcoming reform represents a pivotal moment for foreign entrepreneurship in Japan. While the path to a Business Manager Visa may become steeper, careful preparation and professional guidance can still lead to successful application.

If you’re unsure how these changes apply to your situation, don’t hesitate to reach out for personalised advice. Now’s the time to lay the right groundwork before the new rules come into effect.