Tighter Scrutiny on Business Plans for Management Visas: How to Succeed
Tighter Scrutiny on Business Plans for Management Visas: How to Succeed
Acquiring a business management visa in Japan requires the submission of a well-prepared business plan. Recently, immigration authorities have increased their scrutiny of these business plans, particularly focusing on the feasibility of the business. As a result, rejections due to inadequate business plans are becoming more frequent. This article will outline the key points to consider when drafting a successful business plan and how to navigate the stricter review process.
Why Has Scrutiny on Business Plans Become Stricter?
The heightened scrutiny stems from the growing number of cases where foreign entrepreneurs obtain management visas but fail to properly establish and operate their businesses. In many instances, insufficient preparation leads to business failure shortly after the visa is granted, with some visa holders ceasing to engage in any business activities.
Starting and sustaining a business is challenging, regardless of nationality. As both a business owner and someone who has observed hundreds of startups during my time in the banking and securities industries, I can personally attest to this difficulty. Many ventures I encountered have since either gone bankrupt or were acquired by larger corporations. Even those that survive often find themselves in a different business landscape than when they started.
Three Essential Points for a Good Business Plan
- Clarity and Simplicity A good business plan must be clear and easy to understand. Immigration officials, who may not have in-depth knowledge of your industry, should be able to grasp your business model, strengths, risks, and your capacity as a business operator at a glance.
- Feasible Business Strategy Your plan must outline a realistic and achievable business strategy. This includes detailed market research, a well-thought-out action plan, and clear business goals backed by data.
- Risk Management It’s critical to address potential risks and propose mitigation strategies. The authorities will closely assess whether your business has the ability to operate long-term and whether you are prepared for any challenges that may arise.
What Makes a Good Business Plan?
From my experience in the banking and securities industries, reviewing over a thousand business plans, a good business plan typically contains:
- An analysis of the market environment and the company’s business model
- An evaluation of the management team’s capabilities
- A clear explanation of the company’s strengths and risk factors, along with mitigation strategies
The best plans are structured logically and succinctly, usually no longer than 5 to 10 pages. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview that allows decision-makers—whether immigration officers or financial institutions—to quickly assess the viability of the business. Since immigration officers may not have the same business evaluation skills as bankers, the plan should be even more accessible and understandable.
Key Criteria for Business Plan Evaluation
When assessing your business plan, authorities will focus on several criteria:
- Business Feasibility
Is your business plan practical and achievable? Does it demonstrate the potential for long-term sustainability? - Financial Projections and Funding
Does the plan include realistic financial projections, and is the funding in place to support the business through its initial stages? - Market Analysis and Competitive Landscape
How well does the plan address the current market conditions, and does it present a clear strategy for overcoming competition?
Conclusion: Professional Assistance for a Solid Business Plan
Creating a successful business plan requires expert knowledge and experience. At our firm, we draw on extensive experience in the financial sector to help clients prepare business plans that stand up to scrutiny. If you’re seeking assistance with your business plan and management visa application, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Continental’s Support Services
- Visa Application Support
We provide comprehensive support, from visa applications to business plan preparation and document submission. - Online Services
We also offer online consultation services for visa applications and related processes.
Contact Information:
Continental Immigration & Consulting
2-16-6 Akasaka, Minatoku, Tokyo 107-0052
Phone: 03-6403-9897
For those seeking advice on applying for highly skilled professional visas or any other residency-related services, we’re here to help. Feel free to contact us for more information.
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)
