How to Renew Your Business Manager Visa After Changing from Corporation to Sole Proprietorship (2025 Reform Updated) | Trust Administrative Scrivener Office

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.

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:

• Your business is being actively operated.

• You are generating stable income.

• You have a properly secured office.

• 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.

Key Question: What if You Don’t Have 30 Million Yen?

If you obtained your current Business Manager Visa before October 16, 2025, you are eligible for a transitional period.

Under this transition rule, any renewal application submitted by October 16, 2028 can still be reviewed under the old standards — provided that:

• You originally invested at least 5 million yen, and

• Your business has continued without major interruption and remains operational.

After October 16, 2028, all renewals must comply with the new standards, including the
¥30 million capital (or equivalent business scale) and at least one full-time employee.

We therefore strongly recommend preparing a transition plan now, outlining how you will gradually scale your business — through reinvestment, staff hiring, or expansion — so that it fully meets the new criteria before your next renewal after 2028.

Required Documents (General Guide)

※Please note: the exact documents may vary depending on individual circumstances.

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:

• Reason for changing from corporation to sole proprietorship

• Current business scale, sales, and profit plans

• Growth and expansion plans

• Office stability and management structure

• Details of your ¥30 million investment

• Financial stability (family assets, personal financial resources, etc.)

Proving Your Business Investment

Under the new rules, you must prove that your total business investment equals or exceeds 30 million yen.
If your investment is still below that amount, you can document your ongoing reinvestment and scaling plan.

Common examples of recognized investment:

• Office lease and renovation costs (deposit, rent, construction)

• Purchase of business assets: computers, machinery, furniture, signage

• Personnel costs: employee salaries, social insurance contributions

• Marketing and advertising expenses

• Professional fees: payments to administrative scriveners, tax accountants, lawyers

• Inventory, materials, or digital infrastructure necessary for operations

Tip: Attach clear payment proofs (contracts → invoices → bank transfers → receipts).
Consistency and transparency in your financial records are crucial.

If you plan to apply, or already hold this visa,
start preparing early to align with the new standards.

🔔 Latest Update –
Business Manager Visa Reform (Effective October 16, 2025)

Starting October 16, 2025, Japan’s Business Manager Visa will undergo major changes.
The new requirements include ¥30 million capital, at least one full-time employee,
and B2-level Japanese proficiency (JLPT N2) — making the visa stricter and more professional.

For a detailed breakdown of the reform and what it means for you,
👉 Business Manager Visa Reform 2025 – New Rules & Key Takeaways

Special Notes for Sole Proprietors

Sole proprietors are still eligible for renewal as long as they can demonstrate equivalent business scale to that of a corporation meeting the 30 million yen investment level.

To do this effectively:

• Prepare a “proof of investment file” with contracts, receipts, and tax records.

• Include a business scaling plan showing when and how you’ll reinvest or hire staff.

• Show stable and consistent income over the past year.

Immigration will evaluate your case holistically — not just by legal structure, but by the economic substance of your business.

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.

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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