Introduction

Foreign nationals who intend to establish or manage a business in Japan must acquire a “Business Manager” status of residence (visa). The question “Can I apply even before registering in the Basic Resident Register?” is common among those still living overseas. This article, based on official government sources, clarifies the procedures and requirements when the applicant is not yet registered, and gives useful measures and points to consider.

Application Requirements and the Role of Resident Registration (Juminhyo)

Main requirements for the Business Manager visa are:

• Securing an independent office space in Japan
• Investment of at least 5 million yen or employing two full-time staff
• Stability and sustainability of the business

Resident registration (Juminhyo) is required for those already in Japan applying by status change but is not mandatory for overseas applicants at the Certificate of Eligibility (COE) stage. Documents detailing the applicant’s overseas address, planned business location, and lease agreement should be prepared instead.

Flow for Overseas Applicants Without Resident Registration

Applicants residing overseas can obtain a 4-month Business Manager visa without being registered in Japan. Typical procedure:

1. Prepare company establishment plan, office lease, and business plan
2. Apply for COE from overseas
3. Receive COE, apply for visa at Japanese embassy/consulate, travel to Japan
4. Register in the resident register at the local authority within 14 days of arrival
5. Proceed with seal registration, open bank accounts, and other formalities

A lack of resident registration at the time of application is not an obstacle, but applicants should promptly register after arrival to proceed smoothly with subsequent procedures.

For Domestic Applicants: Resident Registration Required

Those already in Japan must register before applying to change their status to Business Manager. Resident registration is compulsory in such cases.

Points and Precautions

• For overseas applicants, prepare all documents related to office location and business plan, even if resident registration not done
• Register promptly on arrival and prepare for subsequent company establishment steps
• Domestic applicants should ensure resident registration is completed before application

Example Scenario

A businessman “B” in Indonesia applied for COE for establishing a company in Japan. B did not have a Japanese resident registration, but submitted documents such as office lease and overseas address. B received permission, arrived in Japan, registered as a resident, then completed company registration and opened bank accounts.

Conclusion

Business Manager visa applications from overseas can proceed even without resident registration, but registration must be completed promptly after arrival. For applicants already in Japan, resident registration is required before application. Advance preparation according to the application type is critical for a successful process。