The planned amendment to the Ministerial Ordinance governing the “Business Manager” residence status, expected in mid-October 2025, is highly likely to be a game-changer for foreign nationals aiming to start a business in Japan. While the details are still being finalized, understanding the reported direction of the tightening and taking early countermeasures is the key to securing your success.
1. CRITICAL CHANGE: Major Predicted Hike in Business Scale Requirements
Information from media reports suggests the core of this revision is to strengthen requirements, aiming to curb fraudulent visa acquisition and foster businesses that make a genuine contribution to the Japanese economy.
| Current Requirements (Outline) | ⇩ Predicted New Requirements (Based on Reports) |
| ¥5 million capital OR 2 or more full-time employees | ¥30 million capital AND 1 or more full-time employees |
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- Soaring Capital Barrier: The minimum capital requirement is expected to dramatically increase six-fold, from the current ¥5 million to ¥30 million.
- From “OR” to “AND”: It is highly likely that both the capital and staffing requirements will become mandatory simultaneous conditions. This will make applications exceptionally difficult for small-scale startups or businesses in the pre-funding stage.
🚨 Immediate Actions to Take
- Revalidate Your Funding Plan: Immediately confirm whether you can secure ¥30 million or more in funding, and thoroughly check the rationality and transparency of the source of those funds.
- Elevate Your Business Plan Quality: You must create a compelling business plan that demonstrates high feasibility and profitability, matching the scale of the required capital.
2. Strategy is Key: How to Address the New Rules, Not Just Rush
Some may consider a “last-minute application” just before the ordinance changes. However, this carries high risks, including application backlogs leading to processing delays and the possibility of denial due to minor administrative errors. Focus instead on developing a strategy to secure approval reliably under the new system.
① Ensure Concrete Evidence Under the New Requirements
Under the new regulations, the Immigration Bureau is expected to scrutinize not only your capital but also the continuity and stability of your business more strictly than ever.
- Detailed Revenue Simulation: Prepare a detailed forecast of sales and expenses based on thorough market research.
- Prepare Lease and Supplier Contracts: Advance preparation is essential for documents that prove the existence of a real business entity, such as securing an office lease and establishing specific supplier agreements.
3. Final Advice for Foreign Entrepreneurs
- Pay Closest Attention to Official Information! This column is based on current predictions from the media. Make it your top priority to check the official announcement of the Ministerial Ordinance and its enforcement rules in mid-October and revise your plan as soon as the definitive content is released.
- Enlist Expert Help: Due to the drastic nature of this system change, attempting to proceed without consulting an immigration specialist (such as a Gyoseishoshi or Administrative Scrivener) is too high-risk. You must partner with an expert who is fully current on the latest information.
This reform is an indication that Japan truly seeks high-quality foreign entrepreneurs. Clear the strict requirements and ensure your business succeeds in Japan!