Business Manager vs Startup: which Japanese visa is right for you?
Two routes for founders: the Business Manager status for running an established company, and the Startup (Designated Activities) status giving time to prepare a business before meeting full criteria.
Side-by-side comparison
| Feature | Business Manager (Business Manager) | Designated Activities (Startup / Business Preparation) (Startup) |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Temporary | Temporary |
| Who it's for | Foreign nationals investing in and managing or running a business in Japan. | Aspiring entrepreneurs given time in Japan to prepare a business before switching to Business Manager. |
| Government cost | ~¥4,000 on grant; Certificate of Eligibility is free | ~¥4,000 on grant; municipality endorsement required |
| Processing time | ~1-3 months for the Certificate of Eligibility | ~1-3 months including municipal screening |
| Length of stay | 5 years, 3 years, 1 year, 6 months, 4 months or 3 months (renewable) | Up to 1 year (to prepare the business) |
| Where to apply | Certificate of Eligibility filed in Japan; visa issued at a consulate abroad | Through a participating municipality / national strategic special zone; visa at a consulate |
| Work rights | Manage and operate the sponsored business | Business-preparation activities only; not general employment |
| Pathway to PR | Counts toward the 10-year residence rule for permanent residence. | Not a PR route itself; you switch to Business Manager, which then counts toward PR. |
Which is right for you?
Business Manager (Business Manager)
Foreign nationals investing in and managing or running a business in Japan.
Full Business Manager guide →Designated Activities (Startup / Business Preparation) (Startup)
Aspiring entrepreneurs given time in Japan to prepare a business before switching to Business Manager.
Full Startup guide →Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, Business Manager or Startup?
On indicative 2025-26 government costs, Business Manager (Business Manager) is the lowest at ~¥4,000 on grant; Certificate of Eligibility is free. Government fees change periodically - confirm before applying.
Which is processed faster, Business Manager or Startup?
Indicatively Business Manager (Business Manager) is the quickest at ~1-3 months for the Certificate of Eligibility. Actual timeframes depend on caseload and how complete your application is.
What's the main difference between Business Manager and Startup?
Business Manager (Business Manager) is for foreign nationals investing in and managing or running a business in Japan. Designated Activities (Startup / Business Preparation) (Startup) is for aspiring entrepreneurs given time in Japan to prepare a business before switching to Business Manager.