Chapter 4:The Startup Visa Is Not the Goal｜The Correct Steps Toward Obtaining a Business Manager Visa

Hello, this is Tsukuda Gyoseishoshi Office.

In this Chapter 4, we will briefly review the previous chapters and clarify an important point: the Startup Visa is not the final goal. Rather, it serves as a temporary means to prepare for obtaining a proper long-term status — the Business Manager Visa.

Recap: Chapters 1 to 3

In Chapter 1, we introduced the concept of residency status in Japan. Chapter 2 compared the Startup Visa and the Business Manager Visa, highlighting their differences. Chapter 3 explained the practical steps involved in transitioning from a Startup Visa to a Business Manager Visa, including funding and business setup.

The Startup Visa is a means, not an end

Many foreign entrepreneurs mistakenly believe that obtaining a Startup Visa allows them to immediately begin business operations in Japan. However, in reality, the Startup Visa is only a preparatory stage to meet the requirements for the Business Manager Visa.

What is the Startup Visa?

The Startup Visa is a special program that allows foreign entrepreneurs to stay in Japan temporarily to prepare for starting a business. If a local government approves your business plan and activities, it issues a certificate called the “Confirmation of Business Startup Activity”.

This certificate is then submitted to the Immigration Bureau to apply for the residency status of “Designated Activities” (Startup Visa). If approved, you will receive a Certificate of Eligibility (CoE), which allows you to enter Japan with a mid- to long-term visa.

What to do after obtaining a Startup Visa

Once you have received the Startup Visa and entered Japan, you must begin preparing for the Business Manager Visa. This includes:

Registering your residence in Japan
Opening a bank account
Depositing capital funds
Establishing your company (LLC or joint-stock company)

Once the company is officially registered, you can apply to change your status of residence to the Business Manager Visa.

Conclusion: The Startup Visa is only the beginning

The Startup Visa is not the goal; it is just a transitional visa to help you meet the requirements for the Business Manager Visa. It is granted for a short period (usually 4 to 12 months), during which time you must complete all necessary preparations.

If your planning is weak or your documentation insufficient, there is a risk that your Business Manager Visa application may be denied.

Understanding the correct steps and preparing properly is the key to success.

At our office, we provide full support — from Startup Visa applications to company formation and the Business Manager Visa process. Feel free to contact us for personalized assistance.