⚠️ Please Read First: This Is Not an Official Policy Change
Some recent media outlets have reported that Japan’s Immigration Authorities are considering raising the capital requirement for the Business Manager Visa from JPY 5,000,000 to JPY 30,000,000, and also introducing a new condition requiring at least one full-time employee.
However, these reports are based on unofficial information and no official announcement has been made.
There has been no legal or procedural change at this time.
As of September 2025, the current requirements remain:
- An office in Japan, and
- Either (1) capital of at least JPY 5,000,000, or (2) two or more full-time employees who live in Japan.
What Is Being Proposed?
According to the public draft ordinance released in August 2025, five major changes are under discussion:
- Capital Requirement: Raise to JPY 30,000,000
- Employee Requirement: At least one full-time employee (in addition to capital)
- Background Requirement: Degree or three years’ management experience
- Third-Party Evaluation: Business plan must be reviewed by an expert
- Renewal Scrutiny: Continuous proof of capital and employment at extensions
Practical Impact
If enacted, this reform would replace the old “JPY 5M or two employees” rule with a much stricter system requiring capital, personnel, credentials, and independent evaluation.
Entrepreneurs will need to prepare far more thoroughly before applying.
Our Advice
- Stay calm and wait for official confirmation in the Official Gazette.
- Continue preparing based on current rules until changes are formally enforced.
- Be cautious of speculative news or unofficial interpretations.
- If changes are adopted, review your business plan, financing, and HR systems carefully.