Understanding the Processing Times for Business Manager Visas in Japan
Processing Times for Business Manager Visas in Japan
For entrepreneurs looking to establish or manage a business in Japan, obtaining a Business Manager Visa is a crucial step. However, the process can be time-consuming, which is a significant consideration since business expenses continue to accrue during this period. This article explores how long it takes to process a Business Manager Visa and offers insights on expediting approval.
Business Manager Visa Variable Processing Times:
The processing time for a Business Manager Visa varies significantly depending on several factors. According to the Tokyo Immigration Bureau, the timeline is influenced by the nature of the business, the applicant’s role within the company, and their professional background. Additional factors that impact the duration include the size of the company and the specific requirements of the visa category under which the application is filed.
Business Manager Visa Average Processing Durations:
- Certificate of Eligibility for Newcomers: Approximately 51 to 100 days.
- Change of Resident Status for Existing Foreign Nationals: Around 35 to 70 days.
These periods can extend further if applications are incorrectly filled or if the immigration authorities deem the case requires more meticulous examination. Instances of extended processing times are often due to insufficient documentation or failure to adequately justify the application’s merit.
Streamlining the Visa Process:
To minimize delays, applicants must ensure their submissions are impeccably prepared. Successful applications typically share these characteristics:
- Comprehensive Documentation: All required documents must be present and correctly filled.
- Clear Justification for Visa Issuance: Applications that clearly meet all visa requirements and provide logical and well-documented justifications for why the visa should be granted tend to be processed more swiftly.
- Supporting Evidence: Additional documents that reinforce the claims made in the application can help solidify the case.
Immigration Bureau’s Approach:
The Immigration Bureau categorizes cases into four types, from straightforward applications that align closely with visa requirements to those that necessitate more careful consideration or additional documentation. Clearly presenting a case as eligible for approval is paramount to prompt processing.
Communication with Immigration Authorities:
Inquiries about the progress of an application are typically met with general updates, as detailed timelines are seldom provided. Persistently contacting the bureau is unlikely to expedite the process. Instead, ensuring that the application is complete and well-prepared from the outset can help avoid delays.
Notification for Additional Documents:
If further documentation is required, the Immigration Bureau will notify the applicant. The timing of such requests can vary, and prompt and accurate compliance is crucial. Incorrect or incomplete submissions can lead to extended processing times or even visa denial.
Applying for a Business Manager Visa in Japan requires careful preparation and an understanding of the bureaucratic process. While processing times can vary widely, ensuring that all aspects of the application are thorough and comply with immigration requirements is the best strategy for obtaining approval efficiently. With careful planning and attention to detail, entrepreneurs can navigate this process successfully, minimizing the impact on their business operations.
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)
