Are you interested in living and working in Japan as an entrepreneur or investor? Japan’s Investor/Business Manager Visa could be the answer. This visa is designed for foreign nationals looking to manage or start a business in Japan and is ideal for those interested in sectors like real estate, tech, hospitality, and beyond. Here’s a complete guide to the eligibility criteria, business requirements, and how real estate investments can help qualify applicants.
Why the Investor/Business Manager Visa?
The Investor/Business Manager Visa is one of the few visa types in Japan that supports foreign entrepreneurs by allowing them to establish and operate their own businesses. This visa enables foreigners to live in Japan, bring families, and pursue business opportunities in a stable and well-regulated market. In real estate, for example, whether you’re managing properties, running a rental business, or buying and selling property, this visa opens doors to participating in Japan’s economy at a higher level.
Key Eligibility Criteria for the Investor/Business Manager Visa
To qualify for the Investor/Business Manager Visa, applicants need to meet a few primary requirements:
Investment in a Business: Applicants should invest at least 5 million yen (approximately $35,000 USD) into the business. This can include funds for a new company or for acquiring an existing business.
Business Plan: A comprehensive business plan is required to show Japanese immigration authorities how the business will contribute to the local economy, provide services or products, and create employment.
Physical Office Space: The business must operate from a physical office location in Japan, which must be distinct from a residential address. Many shared office spaces or coworking facilities meet this requirement.
Management Role: The applicant should hold a managerial position within the business, actively participating in its day-to-day management and decision-making. This is not just an investment visa; it requires active business involvement.
Types of Businesses Eligible for the Visa
While the Investor/Business Manager Visa isn’t limited to any specific sector, some types of businesses are particularly suited for the visa requirements. Common business ventures that qualify include:
Real Estate: Property management companies, rental property businesses, or akiya (abandoned home) renovation and sales businesses are great options.
Consulting Firms: Many investors establish consulting firms, especially in international marketing, business consulting, or finance.
Restaurants and Cafés: Foreign-run restaurants or unique food service offerings can attract tourists and locals alike.
Technology Startups: Japan’s growing tech scene welcomes startups, especially those that support automation, AI, and digital innovation.
How Real Estate Investments Can Qualify for the Visa
Japan’s real estate market, from urban rentals to rural akiya, is gaining momentum among international investors. Here’s how real estate investments can be used to qualify for the Investor/Business Manager Visa:
Starting a Property Management Company: A property management company that provides leasing, rental, or property sales services is one option. With a business plan demonstrating revenue generation, this type of venture aligns well with visa requirements.
Renovating and Selling Akiya: The akiya trend, focusing on Japan’s abandoned or vacant homes, has gained international appeal. By setting up a business focused on buying, renovating, and selling or renting out akiya, investors can meet the investment requirement while contributing to regional revitalization.
Running Short-Term Rentals: Short-term rental businesses, such as managing Airbnb properties, can also qualify. However, this sector requires compliance with local and national regulations, such as obtaining the necessary permits and adhering to zoning laws.
Real Estate Investment Funds: If structured correctly, real estate funds can qualify for the visa. By creating a fund focused on Japanese properties, applicants can satisfy visa criteria while pursuing larger-scale real estate ventures.
Steps to Apply for the Investor/Business Manager Visa
Develop a Business Plan: Outline your business model, target market, revenue projections, and how the business will contribute to the Japanese economy. This is a key document, so make sure it’s thorough and backed by research.
Secure Funding and Office Space: Ensure that you have the required 5 million yen for investment and rent a physical office space. Japanese immigration will need to see evidence of both.
Register Your Business: You’ll need to legally register your business in Japan, including setting up a Japanese bank account, obtaining a tax ID, and other administrative processes. Hiring a legal consultant familiar with Japanese business law is often helpful.
Apply for the Certificate of Eligibility (COE): This document proves you meet visa criteria. Your business plan, funding evidence, and office lease will be submitted along with the COE application to Japanese immigration.
Submit Visa Application: After receiving the COE, you’ll apply for the visa at your local Japanese consulate. Once granted, you’ll receive a visa that allows you to live and manage your business in Japan.
Practical Tips for a Successful Application
Show Long-Term Commitment: Immigration authorities favor applications that demonstrate a commitment to contributing to the Japanese economy over the long term. Emphasize your intent to grow the business and contribute to local communities.
Highlight Job Creation: If your business can create employment for Japanese citizens, it strengthens your application. Even small businesses that employ local staff are highly regarded.
Seek Legal Assistance: Working with a Japanese immigration lawyer or business consultant familiar with the Investor/Business Manager Visa process can simplify the application and improve your chances of success.
Network Locally: Building connections with Japanese business owners, potential clients, and local officials can enhance your understanding of the market and showcase your dedication to integrating into the community.
How Old Houses Japan Can Help
At Old Houses Japan, we specialize in connecting international investors to unique real estate opportunities, including akiya properties, rental investments, and rural revitalization projects. With our experience in navigating Japan’s real estate market, we can help you explore and assess property options, assist with setting up a real estate business, and guide you through the visa requirements to make your business aspirations in Japan a reality.
Final Thoughts
The Investor/Business Manager Visa provides a valuable pathway for foreign entrepreneurs and investors to live, work, and establish a business in Japan. Whether you’re looking to enter the real estate market, start a tech company, or bring an innovative idea to Japan’s business scene, this visa offers unique opportunities. With a strong business plan, the required investment, and a commitment to integrating into the Japanese economy, you could be on your way to a successful career in one of Asia’s most dynamic markets.
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