https://news.yahoo.co.jp/articles/1b4a633d9976215cb736bfca0a0d813874095675
“On the 25th, the Immigration Services Agency of Japan compiled a draft ministerial ordinance to tighten requirements for the “Business Manager” residence status for foreigners starting businesses in Japan, including raising the capital requirement to 30 million yen—six times the current amount. The agency also added requirements for management experience and employment of full-time staff. Public comments will be solicited until September 24th, with implementation targeted for October.
Japan’s Business Manager residence status has had relatively lenient requirements compared to other countries, leading to cases where foreigners obtained the status by misusing shell companies.
Under the current revision proposal, the Immigration Agency raised the previous requirement of 5 million yen or more in capital/total investment to 30 million yen or more—a six-fold increase. Additionally, new requirements were added including: three or more years of management experience; obtaining a master’s degree or equivalent in business management; employing one or more full-time staff members; and mandatory verification of new business plans by certified small and medium enterprise management consultants.
However, no restrictions were placed on business sectors as before, and Japanese language proficiency was not added as a requirement.
According to the agency, as of the end of 2024 (Reiwa 6), approximately 41,600 people held residence status under this category. Of these, only about 4% were from companies with capital/total investment of 30 million yen or more.
Business managers who obtained their status under the previous requirements are expected to be evaluated under the new standards when renewing their status. The agency stated, “It would be too strict to deny status renewal simply because someone cannot immediately meet the new requirements, so we will consider each case individually and respond flexibly.”
by chaolayluu