Business Manager Visa Japan (2026)｜JPY 30 Million Capital Requirement & Source of Funds Guide
Since the legal amendment on October 16, 2025, the requirements for the Business Manager Visa in Japan have fundamentally changed.
The minimum capital requirement has increased from JPY 5 million to JPY 30 million.
However, the real issue is not the amount itself.
The screening focus has shifted entirely to the “Source of Funds.”
In practice, many applications are rejected because applicants cannot properly explain how they obtained their funds.
This article is based on the Immigration Services Agency of Japan’s regulatory amendment (effective October 2025), which requires both a minimum capital of JPY 30 million and at least one full-time employee.
1. Why a Bank Balance of JPY 30 Million Is Not Enough
Many applicants believe that simply showing a bank balance of JPY 30 million is sufficient.
This is incorrect.
In current immigration screening, a bank statement is only proof of the result, not the process.
The Key Factor: “Source of Funds”
Immigration authorities carefully examine:
- Who earned the money
- When it was obtained
- Where it came from
- How it was acquired
- Whether it was legally obtained
If there are inconsistencies, the application will likely be rejected—even if the amount is sufficient.
In many cases, immigration reviews financial history over several years.
—
2. How to Prove Your JPY 30 Million (Case-by-Case)
① Savings from Salary or Business Income
- Income certificates (multiple years)
- Tax returns
- Bank statements showing salary deposits
Key point:
You must demonstrate that your savings are realistic based on income minus living expenses.
—
② Gifts or Loans from Family
- Gift agreement or loan agreement
- Bank transfer records
Important:
You must also prove how your family obtained the funds.
This is one of the most common reasons for rejection.
—
③ Sale of Assets (Real Estate or Stocks)
- Sales contracts
- Bank records of received funds
- Tax payment records
Immigration will check:
- Whether the sale price is reasonable
- Whether taxes were properly paid
—
3. New Requirements After October 2025
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Capital | JPY 30 million or more |
| Employment | At least 1 full-time employee |
| Experience | 3+ years management experience or Master’s degree |
| Language | Japanese level (JLPT N2 or equivalent) |
All requirements must be met.
—
4. Common Reasons for Rejection
- Depositing large amounts of unexplained cash
- Using unofficial money transfer channels
- Carrying cash into Japan without declaration
Once your financial records are inconsistent, it is extremely difficult to fix the situation later.
—
5. Practical Strategy for Approval
- Plan your fund structure before moving money
- Use proper banking channels only
- Align your financial story with your business plan
Immigration is no longer evaluating documents alone.
They evaluate the credibility of your entire business plan and financial background.
—
Important: Check Before Moving Your Funds
If you transfer money incorrectly, it may be impossible to fix later.
Consult before making any financial transactions.
—
Summary
The JPY 30 million requirement is not just about money.
It is about whether you can clearly explain your financial history.
Most outcomes are determined before you even submit your application.
