Can Two Foreign Nationals Jointly
Obtain a Business Manager Visa in Japan?

 

Starting a business in Japan as foreign entrepreneurs involves navigating complex visa regulations. A common query arises: Can two foreign nationals both secure a Business Manager Visa? The answer hinges on specific investment and operational criteria.

Eligibility for Dual Business Visa Approval:

For two foreign nationals aspiring to co-manage a business in Japan, each must invest at least 5 million yen and have clearly divided managerial responsibilities to qualify for the Business Manager Visa.

Core Considerations for Joint Management:

• Investment Requirements: Each entrepreneur must contribute financially to the business. The amount of this investment is crucial as it demonstrates commitment and capability to sustain the business operations.
• Operational Roles: The division of roles is essential. Each individual must engage in substantial management activities that are distinct and necessary for the business’s success. This distinction ensures that both roles are justified and recognized by immigration authorities.

 

Practical Example of Successful Joint Visa Application:

• Case Study: Foreign nationals A and B establish a trading company with a combined investment of 15 million yen, where individual contributions exceed the 5 million yen threshold. A, an expert in customs and import/export operations, handles international transactions leveraging extensive experience and networks. B, formerly from a banking background, oversees finance and internal management.
• Management and Compensation: Decisions are made jointly with compensation tied to the business’s profitability and proportional to individual investments.

 

Critical Factors for Approval:

• Substantial Individual Contributions: Each partner must invest more than 5 million yen.
• Defined Management Roles: Clear differentiation in responsibilities such as trade operations versus financial oversight or regional sales territories.

 

Challenges and Rigorous Verification:

• Source of Capital: The origin of the invested capital must be verifiable and legitimate.
• Capability and Role Fulfillment: The capability of each officer to perform their designated roles is scrutinized more intensely than in standard applications.
• Business Reality: The actual functioning of the business is assessed to ensure it is not merely nominal.
• Capital and Shareholder Strategy: Considerations around shareholder structure and capital contributions are critical, especially as they might differ under tax laws.

  Conclusion: For foreign entrepreneurs, obtaining a Business Manager Visa in Japan requires not only substantial financial investment but also clear division of managerial duties. This ensures both a practical and compliant approach to business management, aligning with stringent Japanese immigration requirements. As the example illustrates, meticulous preparation and clear demonstration of each partner’s role and contribution are paramount for successful visa approval.  

Professional

Masakazu Murai Immigration consultant, Financial advisor 18 years experience in Investment Banking at Mitsubishi UFJ Morgan Stanley. He had provided financial advisory more than 500 entrepreneurs and senior management. Gyoseishoshi Immigration Lawyer CMA(Japanese financial analyst license) CFP (Certified Financial Planner) Master of Business Administration in Entrepreneurship(Hosei Business School) CONTACT US TODAY