Business Manager Visa Processing Timeline: A Comprehensive Guide from Application to Approval

What Is the Business Manager Visa?

Japan currently offers 29 types of residence statuses, including 19 categories of work visas.

Among them, the Business Manager visa—often informally referred to as the “CEO visa”—is designed for foreign nationals who engage in business management or administrative operations in Japan.

Although the visa category is unified under “Business Manager,” it covers two distinct types of activities:

Management: When a foreign national establishes a company in Japan and operates it as a representative director or other executive.
Administration: When a foreign national is employed by a Japanese company as a director, branch manager, department head, or other managerial position under a contractual relationship.

Both activities fall under the same visa category, and meeting either set of conditions may qualify an applicant for the Business Manager visa.

In cases where a foreign headquarters dispatches an employee to a Japanese branch, the appropriate visa may vary. Some cases fall under the Intra-Company Transferee visa, while others—particularly when the role involves substantial managerial authority—are more appropriately handled under the Business Manager category.

Because the requirements and permitted activities differ significantly, selecting the correct visa requires careful evaluation of the applicant’s circumstances. Consulting a qualified professional is strongly recommended when the distinction is unclear.

Processing Time for the Business Manager Visa

The Immigration Services Agency of Japan publishes average processing times under the “Residence Examination Processing Periods.” These figures represent the average number of days required across all regional immigration offices.

According to the latest available data (January 2026)
・Certificate of Eligibility (COE – New Entry): 169.0 days
・Change of Status of Residence: 92.3 days
・Extension of Period of Stay: 58.4 days

In practical terms, this means:
・COE issuance: approximately 6 months
・Change of status: approximately 3 months
・Extension: approximately 2 months
However, these figures are only general benchmarks.

In reality, processing times vary significantly depending on:
・The applicant’s background
・The nature of the business
・The company’s operational structure
・The quality and completeness of submitted documents
・Regional differences (Tokyo Immigration Bureau often requires longer than average)

Thus, the published timelines should be treated strictly as reference values, not guarantees.

Preparatory Steps Required Before Applying for the Business Manager Visa

The visa examination itself takes several months, but preparing the necessary documentation and establishing the required business infrastructure also requires substantial time.
Below is a breakdown of the major steps and typical timelines for cases involving management—that is, when a foreign national establishes and operates a company in Japan.

Step 1: Company Incorporation (1–3 months)

Step 2: Preparing a Business Plan (1 week–1 month)

Japanese financial institutions often require a detailed business plan to verify the feasibility and continuity of the business before opening a corporate bank account.

For the Business Manager visa, a business plan is essential to demonstrate profitability and sustainability.

Since October 2025, a major regulatory reform requires business plans to be accompanied by an evaluation report issued by a certified tax accountant, CPA, or SME management consultant.
This significantly raises the required level of accuracy and supporting evidence.

Early preparation of a professional-grade business plan is therefore critical.

Step 3: Opening a Corporate Bank Account (1–3 months)

Due to strengthened AML/CFT regulations, Japanese banks conduct strict screening—especially for foreign-owned companies.

Because the next step (securing an office) often requires a corporate account, opening the account at this stage is ideal.

Step 4: Securing an Office (1–3+ months)

Office setup—including property search, contracting, and interior work—typically requires at least 1–3 months.

Step 5: Notifications to Tax Office, Prefectural Tax Office, Pension Office, Hello Work, and Labor Standards Office (1–2 months)

A wide range of statutory filings must be completed after incorporation.
Even single-director companies must enroll in social insurance (health and pension).
Labor insurance requirements differ depending on whether employees are hired.

Step 6: Obtaining Required Business Licenses (1–9 months)

Certain industries require government approval before operations can begin.
Preparation and review periods vary widely depending on the license type.
Examples include
・Restaurant business license
・Secondhand dealer license
・Real estate brokerage license

Each requires specific documentation, facility standards, or qualified personnel.

Step 7: Preparing and Submitting Business Manager Visa Application Documents (1–3 months)

This includes
・Business plan (with expert evaluation if not yet completed)
・Application forms
・Supporting documents
・A detailed Statement of Reasons explaining the business model, legality, feasibility, and applicant’s suitability

Although optional, the Statement of Reasons is practically indispensable for improving approval rates.

Further details on the required documents can be found at the link below.

Step 8: Visa Examination Period (1–3 months)

Actual processing varies by region and case complexity.
Large jurisdictions such as Tokyo often require longer than the published averages.

Detailed Flow from Preparation to Obtaining the Business Manager Visa

A full timeline—from company incorporation to visa issuance—can range from 8 months to over 2 years, especially for businesses requiring licenses.
However, many steps can be conducted concurrently, allowing for significant time reduction.
Applicants uncertain about whether their intended business requires licensing should consult a professional early in the process..

When Immigration Requests Additional Documents

Even if your application for a status of residence is successfully accepted, the immigration office may send you a “Request for Additional Documents” during the examination process.

This notice is issued when questions arise during the review or when certain information is insufficient, and it asks the applicant to submit supplementary materials.

This notice essentially “encourages” the submission of additional documents, and the examination will continue even if you do not submit them. However, if no additional documents are provided, immigration may determine that necessary information is lacking or that there is no valid reason for failing to submit the requested materials, which often works against the applicant.

On the other hand, submitting additional documents does not necessarily guarantee a favorable result. Depending on the content and the way the explanation is presented, the materials may even deepen the examiner’s concerns. In such situations where judgment is difficult, consulting a specialist experienced in visa applications can help you receive appropriate advice.

Tips for Avoiding Delays in the Examination Process

Even if your application is accepted, receiving a “Request for Additional Documents” can significantly extend the overall examination period, as collecting and preparing the requested materials often requires considerable time. The notice includes a submission deadline, and immigration will wait until that deadline for the applicant’s response, which further prolongs the review.

To avoid such situations, it is important to submit complete and error-free documents from the beginning, ensuring that all necessary information is included. Equally important is attaching a detailed statement of reasons at the initial submission stage. By clearly explaining the background of the application and the business activities, the examiner can quickly and accurately understand the applicant’s circumstances, reducing the risk of unnecessary doubts.

Submitting documents that are easy for the examiner to understand and leave no room for questions is an effective way to prevent the examination period from becoming unnecessarily long.

Practical Workflow After the 2025 Regulatory Reform

The October 2025 reform introduced stricter requirements, including
・ Capital structure around 30 million yen
・3+ years of managerial experience
・At least one full-time employee
・Demonstrable business activity and continuity

Because of these heightened standards, the traditional flow
Company incorporation → Immediate visa application

is no longer realistic for many applicants.

Instead, the practical flow is now
Company incorporation → Business foundation building → Meeting visa requirements → Application

This staged approach is now the industry standard.

Step 1: Company Incorporation (Start with Available Capital)

Many applicants cannot prepare 30 million yen in capital at the outset. In such cases, the realistic approach is to incorporate the company with the capital currently available.

A representative director may remain overseas during incorporation, using short-term stays in Japan to complete necessary procedures.

Step 2: Establishing a Preparation Period (Using Short-Term Stays)

After incorporation, applicants should allocate time to build a viable business foundation rather than immediately applying for the visa.

During this preparation period, the following tasks can be completed
・Hiring at least one full-time employee
・Establishing an operational structure capable of sustaining business activities
・Developing and executing a concrete business plan
・Securing additional capital if needed
・Building business performance (sales, contracts, partnerships)

These steps can be carried out through short-term visits or remote management from overseas.

Step 3: Meeting the Visa Requirements

To qualify for the Business Manager visa, applicants must satisfy all of the following
・A business structure supported by capital around 30 million yen
・Three years or more of managerial or administrative experience
・Employment of one full-time employee
・Documentation proving business continuity and feasibility
・Evidence of actual business operations

Because these requirements demand substantial preparation, the previous model of “incorporate → apply immediately” is no longer realistic.

Step 4: Visa Application (Once All Requirements Are Met)

Only after the business foundation is fully established should the applicant proceed with the visa application.

Thus, the practical workflow after the 2025 reform is

Old model:
Company incorporation → Immediate visa application

New model:
Company incorporation → Business foundation building → Meeting requirements → Visa application

This staged process is now the standard approach for obtaining the Business Manager visa.

Summary

Obtaining the Business Manager visa requires navigating a complex, multi-step process that spans several months—even under ideal conditions.

However, successful approval and consistent renewals may eventually lead to eligibility for permanent residency, which itself requires careful preparation and a comprehensive understanding of the applicant’s circumstances.

Because the requirements are strict and the evaluation is holistic, professional guidance is strongly recommended.

Experts can
・Manage timelines efficiently
・Prepare accurate and complete documentation
・Interpret regulatory changes
・Provide strategic advice tailored to long-term immigration goals

Professional support helps applicants avoid unnecessary delays and pursue a streamlined, strategic path toward visa approval.

Why Professional Assistance Is Recommended

The Business Manager visa is one of Japan’s most demanding residence statuses.
Each applicant’s situation requires a customized approach, and missteps in documentation or timing can significantly delay or jeopardize approval.

Professionals offer
・ Precise document preparation
・Strategic scheduling
・Up-to-date knowledge of legal reforms
・Guidance on long-term immigration planning
・ Support for both visa acquisition and future renewals

This ensures not only efficient visa approval but also a stable foundation for future residency options, including permanent residency.

Our Firm’s End-to-End Support for Business Manager Visa Applicants

Following the 2025 reform, the Business Manager visa requires a staged, strategic approach.

Our firm provides comprehensive support across all phases
・Company incorporation (including optimal structural planning)
・Designing a practical preparation period
・Assistance with hiring full-time staff
・Support for capital planning and building business performance
・Detailed assessment of visa eligibility
・Execution of the Business Manager visa application

We specialize in assisting overseas residents and first-time entrepreneurs in Japan.
Even if you are unsure where to begin, we provide actionable, practical guidance and accompany you through each step until visa approval.

Visa Application Services

Our firm offers free initial consultations for foreign nationals seeking assistance with visa matters.
We provide:
・Document preparation
・Legal guidance
・Strategic planning for optimal application timing

All of our staff members hold the Gyoseishoshi (Administrative Scrivener) qualification, and under the supervision of our attorneys, we provide professional support backed by expertise in visa applications, foreign employee management, labor matters, and contract law.

How to Contact Us

We offer a 24/7 nationwide “Email Speed Consultation” service for clients who value rapid response. This service allows you to receive professional guidance quickly and efficiently.

Taking the first step toward resolving your immigration concerns begins with contacting us.

The contents of this article are based on laws and information as of August 2026.
This article is intended for general informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. We strive to provide accurate information; however, we do not guarantee the accuracy of the contents.

Author: ONO, Tomohiro
Attorney at Law
First & TandemSprint LPC