How to Renew Your Business Manager Visa After Changing from Corporation to Sole Proprietorship in Japan
Many foreign entrepreneurs operating businesses in Japan under a Business Manager Visa may eventually choose to change their business structure.
It’s not uncommon to shift from a corporation (such as a Godo Kaisha or Kabushiki Kaisha) to a sole proprietorship (after filing a business opening notification).
But is visa renewal still possible after such a change?
In this article, we’ll clearly explain the process, required documents, and important points to consider based on real cases we’ve handled.
Utsunomiya・Foreign entrepreneurs who have changed from a corporation (Godo Kaisha, Kabushiki Kaisha, etc.) to a sole proprietorship under a Business Manager Visa.
・Those unsure how to prepare proper documentation for the required ¥5 million investment.
・Business Manager Visa holders preparing for renewal but concerned about business size or revenue stability.
- 1 Can I renew my visa after switching to a sole proprietorship?
- 2 Required Documents (General Guide)
- 3 Why you should prepare a Statement of Reasons (Business Plan)
- 4 How to prove your ¥5 million investment
- 5 Summary: Careful Preparation Is Key
- 6 How We Can Support You
- 7 Introduction to Administrative Scriveners
- 8 Consultation Information
- 9 Contact Us
Can I renew my visa after switching to a sole proprietorship?
Yes, you can.
Changing your business structure from a corporation to a sole proprietorship does not prevent you from renewing your Business Manager Visa.
However, it’s essential to carefully demonstrate to immigration authorities that:
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Your business is being actively operated.
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You are generating stable income.
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You have a properly secured office.
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You are capable of maintaining stable business operations long-term.
In short: Immigration focuses more on your real business activity than the legal form of your business.
Required Documents (General Guide)
※Please note: the exact documents may vary depending on individual circumstances.
| Document | Notes |
| Application Form for Extension of Period of Stay | Use the latest form available on Immigration’s website. |
| Proof of Business Investment | E.g., receipts, payment records, purchase agreements showing ¥5 million investment. |
| Office Lease Contract or Property Registry | To prove your office space (property registration if owned). |
| Profit and Loss Statement / Balance Sheet | Showing most recent business financial results. |
| e-Tax Submission Receipt | If you filed taxes electronically. |
| Passport & Residence Card | Originals must be presented at the immigration office. |
| Tax Certificates (Income Tax, Resident Tax, etc.) | Proof of fulfilling your tax obligations. |
| Statement of Reasons (Business Plan) | Highly recommended though not officially required (explained below). |
Why you should prepare a Statement of Reasons (Business Plan)
Immigration doesn’t officially list a business plan or statement of reasons as a required document for renewal.
However, in cases involving a change in business structure, we strongly recommend submitting one.
By preparing this statement, you allow immigration officers to fully understand your business situation — which often leads to a smoother review process.
Key points to include in your statement:
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Reason for changing from corporation to sole proprietorship
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Current business scale, sales, and profit plans
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Growth and expansion plans
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Office stability and management structure
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Details of your ¥5 million investment
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Financial stability (family assets, personal financial resources, etc.)
How to prove your ¥5 million investment
Even for sole proprietors, proving your business investment of at least ¥5 million is critical for visa renewal.
You can include:
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Office security deposits, several months’ rent, brokerage fees
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Renovation costs (including interior work, signage, furniture, equipment)
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Business-use computers, office desks, client meeting tables, etc.
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License application fees and payments to administrative scriveners
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Salaries paid to part-time employees working at your office
By documenting these expenses carefully, you can clearly show immigration that you meet the capital requirements for the Business Manager Visa even without incorporating a company.
Summary: Careful Preparation Is Key
Renewing your Business Manager Visa after changing from corporation to sole proprietorship requires a little extra care.
The three most important elements are:
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Clear explanation of the business structure change
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Proof of stable current business operations
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Proper documentation of your ¥5 million business investment
By preparing these thoroughly, you can ensure a smoother renewal process.
How We Can Support You
At Trust Administrative Scrivener Office, we have experience supporting foreign entrepreneurs with Business Manager Visa applications — including cases where clients have changed from corporations to sole proprietorships.
Our services include:
- Preparation of the Statement of Reasons and Business Plan
- Organizing and reviewing investment documentation
- Direct communication and pre-consultation with immigration officers
- Submission of your full application on your behalf
We offer flexible and personalized support based on your unique situation.
Please feel free to contact us anytime for a consultation.
Introduction to Administrative Scriveners
Thank you for reading this article. I am Utsunomiya, the representative administrative scrivener at Trust Administrative Scrivener Office. My mission is to support individuals with dreams and goals in realizing their aspirations in Japan. For those looking to start a business in Japan from abroad, navigating residency requirements can feel overwhelming. I aim to provide clear and approachable guidance to alleviate your concerns and help you start with confidence. We offer a reliable support system for everything from preparing necessary documents to reviewing application details and submitting them online.
We handle procedures related to visas, assist with business plan creation, and provide essential information. Additionally, with over ten years of experience as a Japanese language teacher, I can offer Japanese lessons if desired.
As you embark on your new business journey in Japan, I stay updated on the latest systems and regulations to provide you with accurate advice, ensuring a smooth process. If you have any worries or questions along the way, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I am dedicated to supporting you in achieving your goals and look forward to working together to help you succeed in Japan.
I am here to accompany those dreaming of starting a business in Japan and to support the realization of that dream. Thank you for your consideration.
Consultation Information
If you are concerned about obtaining a startup visa or starting a business in Japan, please feel free to consult with Trust Administrative Scrivener Office. At Trust Administrative Scrivener Office, we provide thorough support from initial consultations to specific procedures, ensuring that foreign entrepreneurs can confidently start their businesses in Japan. We are committed to assisting you in your preparations for launching a business, so please reach out to us.
Contact Us
Office Name: Trust Administrative Scrivener Office
Administrative Scrivener: Keiko Utsunomiya
Email: info@trust-gyosei.com
Address：3F-1-1-1 Kajimachi, Kokurakita-ku, Kitakyushu-shi, Fukuoka, Japan