Can Two Foreign Nationals Jointly Obtain a Business Manager Visa in Japan?
Can Two Foreign Nationals Jointly
Obtain a Business Manager Visa in Japan?
Starting a business in Japan as a foreign national requires navigating complex visa and regulatory systems. A common question we receive is whether two foreign nationals can jointly obtain a Business Manager Visa. The answer is yes—with specific conditions related to investment amount and division of management responsibilities.
Eligibility for Dual Business Manager Visas
Both individuals must independently qualify for the visa. This means:
- Each person must invest at least 5 million yen into the company.
- Both must take on significant, clearly defined managerial roles that are essential to the business’s operations and success.
Core Requirements for Co-Managing Entrepreneurs
- Financial Commitment: Immigration authorities require individual contributions to show dedication and financial responsibility. A total investment of 10 million yen or more is expected in such cases.
- Distinct Operational Roles: The management duties must be distinguishable—e.g., one managing finance, while the other handles sales or logistics.
Real-World Example
Consider this successful case:
- Applicants A and B jointly set up a trading company in Tokyo with a combined investment of 15 million yen—each contributing over 5 million yen.
- A brings deep expertise in logistics and oversees overseas procurement and customs procedures.
- B utilizes a banking background to manage internal operations and cash flow control.
With clear roles and solid investment backing, both received Business Manager Visas following a thorough evaluation.
Key Approval Criteria
- Capital Requirement: Each applicant must meet the independent 5 million yen threshold.
- Role Clarity: Avoid overlapping responsibilities. Clear, documented job descriptions help during the visa review process.
- Corporate Documentation: Your business plan, articles of incorporation, and employment structure must reflect the dual leadership structure.
Challenges and Immigration Scrutiny
- Source of Funds: Proof of legitimate and traceable capital is required. Family transfers, foreign bank accounts, or startup capital must be well-documented.
- Management Capability: Immigration officials may question whether each partner has the qualifications to perform their role—be prepared to submit résumés and relevant experience records.
- Ongoing Business Activity: Companies must demonstrate actual operations—contracts, suppliers, marketing, and employees—not just a paper entity.
Conclusion
Two foreign nationals can successfully obtain Business Manager Visas in Japan—provided each fulfills the full investment and management requirements. It’s essential to establish financial independence, role clarity, and operational credibility. Immigration authorities will assess the company’s structure and the legitimacy of each applicant’s function within it.
At Continental, we assist co-founders and international business partners in crafting strong, compliant visa applications that meet these complex criteria. If you are considering a joint business venture in Japan, we encourage early consultation to ensure all requirements are met from the start.
Professional
Masakazu Murai
Immigration Consultant | Financial Advisor
18 years in Investment Banking at Mitsubishi UFJ Morgan Stanley
Gyoseishoshi Immigration Lawyer
CMA (Japanese Financial Analyst License), CFP
MBA in Entrepreneurship (Hosei Business School)