The The legal revision of October 2025 has significantly raised the requirements for Business Manager Visas. This news is a serious issue that threatens the business continuity of not only those aiming to start a company in Japan but also foreign business owners who have been deeply rooted and beloved in their local communities for years.
For many restaurants—especially those that have maintained their authentic, homemade flavors with only one or a few staff members—these new standards pose an extremely high hurdle.
What Has Changed? — Three Realities Facing Restaurants
The recent revision introduces strict standards that often diverge from current operating realities. Specifically, the following requirements have become major obstacles:
- Stricter Business Evaluations: It is no longer enough to simply “have a store.” Authorities now rigorously scrutinize sales forecasts and the owner’s professional background.
- Raising Capital to 30 Million Yen: Stores that previously could start with 5 million yen in capital are now generally required to operate on a scale of 30 million yen or more.
- Mandatory Employment of Full-Time Staff: You are now required to employ at least one full-time staff member who has no employment restrictions (such as Japanese nationals or permanent residents) and provide them with full social insurance coverage. The resulting increase in labor costs is a major factor putting pressure on small-scale restaurant operations.
The “Renewal” Barrier Facing Existing Businesses
This revision casts a long shadow not only over new applications but also over visa renewals. Even for businesses that have been operating without issue, there is growing concern that renewals may become difficult when these new standards are applied (though a grace period remains in effect until October 2028).
“Have I been serving my local community and providing my home-country’s dishes for all these years, only to be forced to close my doors suddenly?” Many owners are currently plagued by this very anxiety.
How We Can Help
While this legal revision is undeniably strict, the key is how effectively you can prove the social value of your store—specifically, how much your business is needed by the local community—as legal “business stability.”
The foundation for this proof is an accurate set of financial statements. In immigration screenings, financial statements are more than just a list of numbers; they serve as a “certificate” that tells the story of your business achievements and future potential. It is no exaggeration to say that whether or not you have properly prepared financial statements determines the outcome of your visa renewal.
At our office, we listen to the story of each business owner and provide thorough support in the following areas:
- Accurate Financial Statements & Bookkeeping Services: We support the creation of financial statements designed with your future renewal in mind. By starting with accurate bookkeeping to record your daily transactions, we translate the reality of your business into correct figures, proving your “stability” in a way that is convincing to immigration officers.
- Visualizing “Community-Rooted” Business Models: We document your existing relationships with customers and local businesses, transforming them into a compelling “community-rooted business model” that resonates with immigration officers.
- Reliable Renewal Support During the Grace Period: We help you make the most of the grace period until October 2028, preparing you for a smooth renewal process. We clarify exactly what needs to be done and by when, tailored to your specific business situation. We provide step-by-step support for every requirement for your renewal application, such as adjusting employment conditions and improving your financial statements, so you can rest assured that you are in good hands.
The bonds you have built with your customers and the flavors loved by your community over the years should not be brought to an end by changes in regulation. We are committed to protecting your business and providing full support so that you can continue serving your community for years to come.
Let us first assess your current situation. Your initial consultation is completely free of charge. Do not let your anxiety linger—please feel free to contact us via our inquiry form, email, or LINE.
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