What is the new capital requirement for Japanese business manager visas?

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The new capital requirement for Japanese business manager visas has been raised to ¥30 million.

The capital requirement for individuals applying for a business manager visa in Japan has seen a significant increase, now set at ¥30 million (approximately RM757,165). This marks a substantial rise from the previous capital threshold of ¥5 million. This change is part of broader efforts by the Japanese government to tighten regulations concerning foreign nationals, particularly in the context of business management visas.
Increased Capital Threshold for Business Manager Visas

The most notable alteration in the revised visa regulations is the escalation of the required capital investment for business manager visa applicants. Previously, the financial threshold stood at ¥5 million. However, this has now been amplified to ¥30 million, a five-fold increase that presents a considerable hurdle for many existing and prospective business owners. This adjustment was implemented by the ruling Liberal Democratic Party in late 2025.
Impact on Existing Business Owners

This capital requirement hike is causing significant concern among foreign nationals who have established businesses in Japan. For instance, Budhathoki Samjhana, the owner of Chitwan Rhino Restaurant and Bar, expressed that meeting the new ¥30 million requirement is "impossible." Business manager visa holders are typically granted a three-year grace period to comply with new conditions, but many fear their businesses, particularly smaller establishments like popular eateries in areas such as Tokyo's Okubo district, will be unable to adapt in time.
Government's Rationale for Stricter Regulations

The tightening of visa rules is attributed to a growing sentiment among some Japanese residents who voice concerns about the impacts of foreign investment, including issues like overtourism and rising land prices. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has been a proponent of these stricter regulations. The justice ministry also announced a "zero illegal foreign residents" plan last year, aiming to address public anxieties. Furthermore, reports indicated that numerous foreigners, predominantly Chinese nationals, were establishing shell companies primarily as a means to relocate to Japan, leading authorities to toughen requirements for business manager visas late last year.
Broader Context of Immigration and Labour Shortages

Japan faces a demographic challenge with a rapidly ageing population and low birth rates, leading to labour shortages across various sectors. While increased immigration could potentially mitigate these issues, there is also growing opposition. The business manager visa, originally intended to attract entrepreneurs, had reportedly become an accessible route for individuals without concrete business plans. The popularity of this visa surged, with approximately 46,000 holders by mid-2025, a 70 per cent increase from 2020, with a significant portion being Chinese nationals.

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What is the new capital requirement for Japanese business manager visas?

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