Introduction

Recently, more foreign entrepreneurs wish to run businesses in Japan, and applications for the “Status of Residence for Business Manager” (Management Visa) are also on the rise. However, when resuming a suspended business or changing business content, unfavorable situations often arise during the visa application process. This article explains the main cases where applications can become disadvantageous and specific ways to avoid them, referencing official information from public agencies such as the Immigration Services Agency of Japan.

Main Requirements for the Status of Residence for Business Manager

To apply for the Status of Residence for Business Manager, the following requirements must generally be met:

• The business facility must exist in Japan, or if starting a business, the facility must be secured in advance.
• Employment of at least two full-time employees living in Japan, or a company capital of at least 5 million yen.
• At least three years of experience in business management (including time spent taking related subjects in graduate school).
• Compensation at least equivalent to that of a Japanese national in a similar position.

Cases Where Applications Become Unfavorable

1. When Business Continuity and Stability Are Not Recognized

If business activities cannot be confirmed or sales are minimal, the continuity of the business may be questioned and the visa may be denied. When resuming a business, explanations for past suspension or falling sales are often required.

How to Avoid

• Prepare materials such as corporate websites and brochures to demonstrate activities.
• Submit customer lists and records of business activities, even if sales are small.

2. When the Securing of Business Facilities Is Not Recognized

Virtual offices and shared offices may not be seen as actual, independent facilities and can be detrimental during screening.

How to Avoid

• Secure an independent, dedicated facility.
• Submit materials such as lease contracts and photographs to prove actual use.

3. Insufficient or Inappropriate Business Plans When Changing Business Content

Submitting reused or vague business plans upon changing business content can make applications disadvantageous. A new, detailed business plan that matches the new business is required.

How to Avoid

• Create a detailed business plan that describes objectives, new services, market analysis, and income/expenditure plans.
• Describe the rationality and future growth of the business specifically.

4. Financial Status Issues and Unpaid Taxes

If taxes or social insurance premiums are unpaid, or business accounts are in deficit, instability in finances may cause visa denial.

How to Avoid

• Prepare certificates that taxes and social insurance fees have been paid.
• Provide concrete explanations of management improvement efforts if the business is in deficit.

5. Long-Term Overseas Stay by the Representative or Issues in Living Situation

If the representative frequently stays overseas or there are problems such as unpaid residence tax and health insurance premiums, this can be detrimental in the screening.

How to Avoid

• Submit materials explaining reasons for overseas travel and the situation of business management.
• Provide proof of payment of residence tax, health insurance, and pension.

Case Study

For example, a foreign manager (fictional name: Mr. A) closed his IT business once, then resumed it after several years. During application, by explaining the period without income and submitting records of current business activities (sample customer lists and project details), business continuity was recognized and the visa was renewed.

Also, when changing business content (from food service to e-commerce), preparing a detailed business plan including market research, projected revenue, and plans to acquire relevant licenses resulted in a smooth application process.

Conclusion

The Status of Residence for Business Manager is closely examined from various perspectives such as continuity, business plans, securing facilities, finance, and living situation, especially when resuming business or changing content. To avoid unfavorable situations, it is key to use official information from public agencies, understand screening trends, and prepare the necessary documents carefully. Utilize the official websites of the Ministry of Justice and Immigration Services Agency of Japan to keep up to date and ensure reliable preparation for your application.