What are the steps to form a company in Japan that qualifies for a business manager visa?

• Jul 14, 2024
• By OPEN WORLD

Forming a company in Japan that qualifies for a business manager (経営管理) visa involves additional considerations beyond basic company formation.

1.  Steps 1-11. Look at our previous posts: What are the steps to form a company in Japan?Additional steps for business manager visa qualification:
   1. Ensure adequate capital investment: The company must have a minimum capital/investment of 5 million yen. This amount should be reflected in your bank statements and company registration.
   2. Secure a physical office space: Unlike a virtual office, you need a dedicated physical office space. This should be separate from any residential area and meet specific size requirements (typically at least 20-30 square meters).
   3. Develop a comprehensive business plan: Create a detailed plan outlining your business activities, market analysis, financial projections, and hiring plans for local staff.
   • Acquire suitable real estate: This step involves finding and securing appropriate real estate that meets both visa requirements and business needs. This process typically includes:
   • Identifying properties that satisfy office space requirements for the business manager visa
   • Navigating purchase or rental processes, including negotiations and paperwork
   • If necessary, overseeing property reforms and renovations to ensure the space is: a) Compliant with business visa requirements b) Suitable for business operations c) Aligned with specific work and lifestyle needs
     • It’s important to note that the chosen property must not only meet legal criteria for the visa application but should also provide an appropriate environment for business operations. The space requirements and suitability can significantly impact both visa approval and the efficiency of business activities in Japan.
   1. Demonstrate business viability: Prepare documentation showing how your business will be sustainable and contribute to the Japanese economy.
   2. Hire local staff: Plan to employ at least two full-time Japanese employees or permanent residents. This requirement can sometimes be fulfilled by one full-time and two part-time employees.
   3. Prove your managerial experience: Compile evidence of your previous managerial experience or advanced education in business management.
   4. Prepare personal documentation: Gather personal documents such as your resume, educational certificates, and proof of financial stability.
   5. Create a company website: Develop a professional website in Japanese (and optionally English) that outlines your services and company information. It’s crucial to note that a printed copy of your website must be submitted with your visa application. This is a mandatory requirement for the business manager visa application, not just a recommendation. The printed website serves as tangible evidence of your business’s online presence and professionalism.
   6. Print website for submission: Once your website is complete, print out a comprehensive copy of it. This printed version will be a key component of your visa application package. Ensure that all relevant pages are included, such as your company overview, services offered, contact information, and any other pages that demonstrate the legitimacy and scope of your business.
   7. Register for social insurance systems: Ensure you’re set up with the necessary social insurance for yourself and employees. This includes:
   • Health Insurance (健康保険, Kenko Hoken)
   • Pension Insurance (年金保険, Nenkin Hoken)
   • Employment Insurance (雇用保険, Koyo Hoken)
   • Workers’ Accident Compensation Insurance (労災保険, Rousai Hoken)

   Proper registration for these systems is not only legally required but also demonstrates your commitment to operating a legitimate business in Japan, which is crucial for your visa status.

   1. Understand visa renewal requirements: Familiarize yourself with the criteria for visa renewal, which often includes showing business growth and continued compliance with initial requirements. Key points to consider:
   • Maintain or increase the number of full-time Japanese employees
   • Show consistent or growing revenue
   • Demonstrate ongoing business activities and contracts
   • Ensure your office space continues to meet size and location requirements
   • Keep detailed financial records and tax payments up to date
   • Be prepared to show how your business contributes to the Japanese economy

   At OPEN WORLD, we provide comprehensive support throughout these processes. Our services extend beyond initial setup to help ensure your long-term success and visa stability in Japan. We can:

   • Guide you through the social insurance registration process, explaining the benefits and obligations of each system
   • Help you set up proper record-keeping systems to track your business growth and employee information
   • Provide regular check-ins to ensure you’re meeting ongoing visa requirements
   • Assist with preparing documentation for visa renewals, helping you showcase your business achievements and compliance
   • Offer advice on business expansion strategies that align with visa renewal criteria

   Our goal is to not only help you establish your business but to ensure it thrives and grows in a way that supports your long-term residency in Japan. We understand that navigating these systems can be complex for foreign entrepreneurs, and our expertise is designed to make this process as smooth and stress-free as possible.