Thinking about starting a Minpaku business in Japan?
Japan’s tourism industry has grown rapidly in recent years, and with it, the demand for diverse lodging options. Among these, Minpaku (private lodging using one’s own apartment or house) has become a popular choice for foreign tourists visiting Japan.
But if you’re a foreign national planning to start a Minpaku business in Japan, what kind of visa will you need?
The truth is—you can’t get a visa just by buying property. To legally run a Minpaku operation as a business, you’ll generally need to apply for a Business Manager Visa.
This article provides essential information on how foreigners can obtain a Business Manager Visa through a Minpaku business, including practical preparation steps and key points to keep in mind.
- 1 What is a Business Manager Visa?
- 2 Can I Get a Business Manager Visa with a Minpaku Business?
- 3 What Do I Need to Prepare Before Applying for a Visa?
- 4 How Many Properties Do I Need?
- 5 Summary: What Do You Need to Succeed?
- 6 Conclusion: Scale and Strategy Matter When Applying for a Visa
- 7 📩 Need Support? Let’s Talk.
- 8 Contact Us
What is a Business Manager Visa?
A Business Manager Visa is a type of residence status for foreign nationals who wish to start and manage a business in Japan.
It applies to those who:
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Establish a company in Japan and operate it as the owner or representative
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Join an existing Japanese company as a director or business manager
Basic requirements include:
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An investment of at least ¥5 million (approx. $35,000 USD)
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A physical office space in Japan (not just a virtual address)
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A business plan that demonstrates stability and sustainability
Can I Get a Business Manager Visa with a Minpaku Business?
Yes, it’s possible—but there are important challenges to be aware of.
✅ 180-Day Limit for Minpaku
Under the Private Lodging Business Act (Minpaku Law), you’re only allowed to rent out a property for up to 180 days per year.
This significantly limits potential income, especially if you’re operating only one or two properties.
✅ Local Restrictions Vary
Each city or ward may have its own rules. Some areas prohibit Minpaku operations in residential-only zones.
Always check local ordinances before purchasing or leasing a property.
✅ Complex Licensing Process
Depending on your setup, you’ll need to file either:
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A Minpaku registration under the Private Lodging Business Act
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Or obtain a Hotel Business License (Simplified Lodging type) under the Inns and Hotels Act
You’ll also need to meet building code, fire safety, and hygiene standards.
What Do I Need to Prepare Before Applying for a Visa?
1. A Profitable Business Plan
Immigration officials will ask:
“How can this business make money if it’s limited to 180 rental days per year?”
You must clearly show that the business can generate profit even after deducting rent, cleaning fees, advertising costs, and taxes.
2. Confirm That the Property Is Legal to Operate
Having a ready-to-use property with proper usage rights significantly strengthens your visa application.
Applications are often denied because the property:
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Is in a residential-only building
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Lacks fire permits
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Is under a lease that forbids commercial use
3. Secure a Separate Office
Using your Minpaku property as your business office is generally not accepted.
You must lease a separate office space to demonstrate that you are managing a real business.
How Many Properties Do I Need?
Many people ask if it’s possible to start with just one property. While understandable, immigration officers take a realistic approach during review.
With only one or two Minpaku properties, your income is likely too low and unstable to qualify for a visa.
In actual approved cases, applicants are often:
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Operating 4 to 5 units or more
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Or obtaining a Hotel Business License that allows 365-day operation
Summary: What Do You Need to Succeed?
| Requirement | Key Points |
|---|---|
| Capital | Minimum ¥5 million, but more is often needed (property, renovations, operations) |
| Office | Must secure a real office separate from the Minpaku units |
| Licenses | Must obtain either Minpaku registration or a hotel license depending on your setup |
| Business Plan | Clear revenue projections, differentiation, and legal compliance strategy |
| Visa Review | If you don’t have permission to operate yet, applying too early is risky |
Conclusion: Scale and Strategy Matter When Applying for a Visa
It is technically possible to apply for a Business Manager Visa with a Minpaku business.
However, due to the legal limitations (180 days/year) and strict licensing, you must prepare carefully.
If your goal is to “start small and expand gradually,” that’s understandable—but when it comes to applying for a visa, immigration authorities want to see a business that is viable from the start.
📩 Need Support? Let’s Talk.
Our administrative scrivener office specializes in:
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Support for foreigners starting Minpaku businesses in Japan
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Licensing procedures
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Business Manager Visa applications
We provide support via email and chat in English and Chinese.
Feel free to reach out to us anytime to discuss your plans!
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