Compensation Requirements for the Japan Business Manager VISA (経営・管理ビザ)

The Japan Business Manager VISA—commonly referred to as the Business VISA—requires applicants to demonstrate the financial ability to sustain their livelihood in Japan through an appropriate level of executive compensation. While there are no explicit legal provisions specifying the exact amount of salary required, immigration authorities closely examine whether the applicant’s income is sufficient to cover daily living expenses and maintain a stable life in Japan.

1. No Statutory Minimum Salary, but Financial Stability is Key

Unlike Japanese entrepreneurs who may postpone taking a salary during the early stages of their business, foreign entrepreneurs under the Business Manager VISA cannot remain unpaid. Setting an unrealistically low salary to minimize taxes or social insurance premiums can raise doubts during the visa review process. The Immigration Services Bureau assesses whether the declared executive salary aligns with realistic living standards in Japan.

Although there is no official minimum salary requirement, a practical benchmark is the average monthly salary of a new university graduate in Japan, which generally falls between JPY 250,000 and 300,000. This level is considered the minimum threshold for sustaining a modest lifestyle and demonstrating genuine business operation.

2. Recommended Executive Salary for Visa Renewal and Permanent Residency

For Business Manager VISA renewal or future Permanent Residency (PR) applications, maintaining a consistent and reasonable level of compensation is essential. Applicants who plan to reside long-term in Japan should ensure their salary reflects both living costs and family responsibilities.

As a general guideline, a minimum annual executive salary of around JPY 5,500,000 is advisable for an applicant supporting a spouse and two children. Immigration authorities consider overall household income when assessing financial stability, so applicants with dependents should plan accordingly. An additional JPY 800,000 per dependent is recommended to maintain sufficient income for visa renewal and PR eligibility.

3. Tax and Social Insurance Considerations

The declared executive salary directly affects both tax liabilities and social insurance contributions. A transparent and reasonable salary structure not only strengthens the credibility of the visa application but also helps avoid future issues with tax audits or pension obligations. Foreign entrepreneurs are strongly advised to consult with licensed professionals such as certified tax accountants (税理士) or labor and social insurance consultants (社会保険労務士) when determining their compensation strategy.

4. Key Takeaways for Foreign Entrepreneurs

• There is no fixed legal minimum salary for Business Manager VISA applicants.
• Immigration authorities assess whether the applicant can sustain their living expenses in Japan.
• A monthly salary of JPY 250,000–300,000 is considered a practical minimum benchmark.
• For permanent residency or visa renewal, aim for at least JPY 5.5 million annually (plus JPY 800,000 per dependent).
• Ensure salary decisions align with tax and social insurance compliance.

Establishing a legitimate and sustainable compensation framework not only ensures smooth Business VISA approval but also supports long-term immigration goals such as permanent residency in Japan. For personalized consultation and document preparation, please contact our office for professional guidance.

 

 

Professional Profile

Masakazu Murai
Producer for Foreign Entrepreneur Support
– Comprehensive Support from Company Formation to Business VISA Acquisition –

Masakazu Murai specializes in minimizing risks of Business VISA denials and long examination periods for foreign entrepreneurs seeking to launch businesses in Japan. Born in 1977, he spent 18 years in investment banking at Mitsubishi UFJ Morgan Stanley Securities (a joint venture between MUFG and Morgan Stanley), providing strategic advisory services to entrepreneurs and executives of listed companies on business planning, financing, and capital strategies.

He specializes in consulting for immigration status applications and financial advisory services for foreign nationals. His personal interests include attending concerts of Japanese pop idols, watching Leonardo DiCaprio movies, and playing with cats.

Certifications and Memberships:

• Administrative Scrivener (Gyoseishoshi)
• Certified Member of the Securities Analysts Association of Japan
• CFP® (Certified Financial Planner – Japan Association for Financial Planners)
• Executive Officer, Minato Ward Chapter, Tokyo Administrative Scrivener Association