Japan business manager route
Residence status for foreign entrepreneurs and corporate executives establishing a company (Kabushiki Kaisha or Godo Kaisha) in Japan.
Who this pathway suits
Business founders, international company branches, and commercial investors establishing a Japanese enterprise.
Eligibility at a glance
- Secured dedicated commercial business office premises in Japan (residential co-working spaces restricted)
- Capital investment of at least JPY 5,000,000 OR employment of at least 2 full-time staff who are Japanese citizens or permanent residents
- Feasible business plan demonstrating sustainable profitability
How the process works
- Incorporate company (Kabushiki Kaisha or Godo Kaisha) with Legal Affairs Bureau
- Deposit JPY 5M capital in Japanese bank account and lease commercial premises
- Submit Business Manager COE application to regional immigration bureau
- Receive visa and collect 1, 3, or 5-year residence card
Documents you will typically need
- Articles of incorporation, company registry extract, commercial lease contract, business plan, financial statements
What to keep in mind
National Strategic Special Zones (Tokyo, Fukuoka) offer a 6-month startup visa allowing founders to enter Japan before completing incorporation.
Official source: JETRO — Setting Up Business in Japan. Government authorities make all final decisions; no outcome is guaranteed.
Parallel Options & Supporting Tools for Japan business manager route
Explore supporting intelligence briefings, interactive points assessment tools, institutional services, and parallel global migration pathways.
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