Introduction
When a foreign national starts a business in Japan, acquiring the “Business Manager” visa is essential. Recently, many entrepreneurs consider using virtual office services to reduce costs. But can a virtual office fulfill the visa requirements? This post explains the official requirements and practical cautions based on government sources.
Office Requirements for the Business Manager Visa
Legal Requirements for an Office
The Immigration Services Agency of Japan clearly sets out requirements for business offices.
- The office must be an independent, physical space where ongoing economic activities are conducted by a single business entity.
- Goods and services must be produced/provided by staff and equipment on a continuous basis.
A virtual office generally does not meet these requirements.
Why Virtual Offices Are Not Accepted
Virtual offices allow you to use an address for registration, but they lack a physical office space and actual operations. Therefore, for the Business Manager visa, such arrangements are mostly not accepted.
For rental offices, only separate, enclosed offices are allowed. Shared or partitioned spaces are typically rejected. The office must be leased under the company name, equipped with essential items (telephone, PC, printer, etc.), and have visible signage.
Permit Requirements and Cautions
Correct Office Contract Points
To obtain a Business Manager visa, you must:
- Lease a physical, independent office under your company’s name.
- The lease must state it is for business purposes.
- Equip the office with a telephone, PC, and office equipment.
- Display the company’s sign or nameplate at the office entrance.
- Be able to prove equipment and business operations in the office via photos.
Cautions When Using Virtual Offices
If considering a virtual office:
- No physical space or independent cubic space means the requirement is not met.
- Lack of actual business activity results in a high risk of rejection by immigration authorities.
- Temporary offices (such as incubators) may be accepted if pre-approved and with necessary documentation.
Approved and Denied Case Examples
| Case | Decision | Reason/Features |
|---|---|---|
| Residential/office mix with business area and signage | Approved | Clear business section, equipment, and signage |
| Virtual office, no physical space or equipment | Denied | No actual office or cubic space |
| Shared or open-plan rental office | Denied | No independence or partition |
| Pure residence, no equipment/signage | Denied | Not recognized as a business office |
Example
Mr. A (foreign entrepreneur) tried to register a web service company using a virtual office. Immigration denied his application because he could not prove the independent business area and actual activity. He then leased an independent office, equipped it, and got approval.
This shows virtual offices—although low cost—generally do not meet the visa requirement of actual business locations.
Office Types That Qualify for a Business Manager Visa
- Offices that meet legal requirements (independent space, company lease, equipped)
- Virtual offices are generally not allowed; rental offices must be enclosed
- Temporary incubators may be exceptions; always confirm with immigration in advance
Conclusion
To obtain a Business Manager Visa in Japan, a physical independent business office is required. Virtual offices are generally not accepted; documentation and real business activity need to be proven. Preparedness and careful review of the latest official guidelines are essential.
