Sixfold increase aims to prevent abuse, but risks deterring business creators

20250825N Japan arrival

The arrivals lobby of Narita Airport near Tokyo. Some have argued that the requirements for Japan’s business manager visa are too lax. (Photo by Sae Kamae)

RUKA SHINOZAKI

August 26, 2025 02:00 JST

TOKYO — Japan plans to tighten the qualifications and capital requirements for the country’s business manager visa, which is designed to attract foreigners seeking to start new companies.