Japan, the world’s third-largest economy, is a powerhouse for technology, manufacturing, and innovation. With increasing globalization and regional cooperation, Japan welcomes foreign business professionals, investors, and entrepreneurs to explore economic opportunities in the country.
If you are planning to attend business meetings, conferences, negotiate contracts, or explore business opportunitiesin Japan, you will typically require a Short-Term Business Visa. For those seeking longer-term business activities—such as starting a company or investing—Japan offers a Business Manager Visa, which requires visa sponsorship from a Japanese entity.
Types of Business Visas in Japan
| Visa Type | Purpose | Stay Duration |
| Short-Term Business Visa | Attending meetings, conferences, negotiations | 15, 30, or 90 days |
| Business Manager Visa | Starting or managing a company, investing, long-term business | 1 year or 5 years (renewable) |
Who Needs a Japan Business Visa?
| Nationality | Visa Requirement |
| Visa-exempt countries (e.g., USA, EU) | No visa for short visits (up to 90 days), but not for work or business management |
| Non-visa-exempt countries | Required to apply for a business visa |
| All nationalities (long-term business) | Must apply for a Business Manager Visa regardless of country |
Visa Sponsorship in Japan
For Short-Term Business Visa:
You will need a sponsor or inviter in Japan, such as:
- A business partner or client
- A company hosting a conference
- An organization arranging a meeting or negotiation
The inviter will need to provide:
- Letter of Invitation
- Letter of Guarantee (if applicable)
- Company registration documents
- Travel itinerary and business purpose statement
For Business Manager Visa:
Sponsorship usually comes in the form of:
- Company registration in Japan
- Proof of business investment (at least ¥5 million)
- A physical office location in Japan
- Business plan and evidence of ongoing operations
You can sponsor yourself if you are setting up a business and meet all legal requirements.
Required Documents
Short-Term Business Visa
- Valid passport
- Completed visa application form
- Recent passport photo
- Letter of invitation from Japanese organization
- Detailed itinerary in Japan
- Letter of guarantee (if needed)
- Company documents of the inviter (certificate of incorporation, tax info)
Business Manager Visa
- Valid passport
- Visa application form and photo
- Certificate of Eligibility (COE) – sponsored by your company or self-applied
- Business plan and company documents
- Proof of office lease or ownership in Japan
- Evidence of capital investment (minimum ¥5 million)
- Applicant’s resume/CV
- Bank statements
Visa Application Process
Short-Term Business Visa
- Prepare documents from yourself and your Japanese sponsor.
- Submit application to the Japanese embassy or consulate in your country.
- Wait for processing time (typically 5–10 business days).
- Receive visa and enter Japan.
Business Manager Visa
- Establish a company in Japan and prepare required documents.
- Apply for the Certificate of Eligibility (COE) through the Immigration Bureau.
- After COE approval (1–3 months), apply for the Business Manager Visa at a Japanese embassy.
- On approval, travel to Japan and register your address, business, and taxes.
Visa Fees
| Visa Type | Single Entry | Multiple Entry |
| Short-Term Business Visa | ¥3,000–¥6,000 | ¥6,000–¥10,000 |
| Business Manager Visa | ¥4,000–¥6,000 | ¥6,000–¥10,000 |
Fees may vary depending on nationality and are paid at the consulate.
Duration and Extension
| Visa | Initial Validity | Renewable? |
| Short-Term Business Visa | 15, 30, or 90 days | No (must reapply) |
| Business Manager Visa | 1 year or 5 years | Yes (based on business performance) |
Benefits of the Business Manager Visa
- Live and manage your business in Japan
- Sponsor family members to join you
- Apply for permanent residency after 10 years (or 1 year in some cases with high contribution)
- Access to local services, healthcare, and tax benefits
- Build long-term commercial ties with Japanese businesses
Japan’s business visa options provide a gateway to one of Asia’s most advanced economies. Whether you are attending a short-term event or planning to establish a startup or investment-based company, there is a visa route available.
With proper documentation and a local sponsor or investment plan, the process is straightforward. Those interested in long-term opportunities should consider the Business Manager Visa, which allows residency, company operations, and potential for permanent settlement.
FAQs
1: Can I work in Japan with a Short-Term Business Visa?
No. This visa is for meetings, negotiations, and business trips only. You cannot engage in paid employment or manage a company.
2: How much money do I need to invest for a Business Manager Visa?
A minimum investment of ¥5 million (approximately $35,000) is required, along with a physical office in Japan.
3: Can I start a company in Japan without a local partner?
Yes. Foreigners can start and own 100% of a Japanese company, provided they meet all legal and visa requirements.
4: How long does it take to get a Business Manager Visa?
It typically takes 1–3 months to obtain the Certificate of Eligibility, plus an additional 1–2 weeks for visa issuance after submission to a consulate.
