The Business Manager Visa is a status of residence for foreigners to "manage" a company in Japan or to engage in "management" of a business as an executive of a company. Simply put, it is a visa that allows a foreigner to work as a business manager.
Situations in which a Business Manager Visa is required?
When a foreigner starts a business in Japan and becomes a "manager
When a foreigner becomes a "manager" of a company in Japan (including outside directors)
Types of business and categories of business eligible for a business manager visa
There are no restrictions on the type or type of business as long as it is a business that is legally and properly operated in Japan. You can operate a wide range of businesses such as Chinese, Indian/Nepalese, and Vietnamese restaurants, import/export of foodstuffs and daily sundries, real estate leasing, and so on. Recently, business manager visas have been granted to YouTubers and other creative companies.
Status of Residence to Manage a Business in Japan
In addition to the Business Manager Visa, the status of residence that allows foreigners to manage a business in Japan is limited to (1) Permanent Resident, (2) Spouse or Child of Japanese National, (3) Spouse or Child of Permanent Resident, (4) Long-term Resident, and (5) Highly Specialized Worker, with no restrictions on activities.
Resident status that allows business management
Permanent Resident
Spouse or Child of Japanese National, Spouse or Child of Permanent Resident (= Spouse Visa holder)
Permanent Resident
Highly skilled worker 1 (c) (a & b are allowed on a limited basis), Highly skilled worker 2
Business Manager Visa
For example, company employees and technicians working with a engineer humanities, or international services visa (working visa) and foreign students studying with a college student visa cannot manage a company with their current status of residence (visa). Sometimes there are people who have established their own companies, but even if they do not receive executive compensation (salary), they are not allowed to establish a company and start a business.
Foreigners other than those with the above five statuses of residence who wish to manage a business in Japan are usually required to obtain a "business manager visa".
