The short answer
- The status must match the job. Doing different work from your status allows can put your visa at risk.
- Your employer usually applies for the Certificate of Eligibility at an immigration bureau.
- The Business Manager visa was tightened in October 2025, with higher capital and new staffing and language conditions.
- Highly Skilled Professionals earn points, and a high score brings faster permanent residency.
The main statuses
The most common status for office and technical work is Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services. It generally needs a university degree or about ten years of related experience, and a job that uses it. Other statuses cover intra-company transfers, instructors, skilled trades, and the Specified Skilled Worker status for named industries with labour shortages.
The Highly Skilled Professional status gives points for education, experience, salary, age and Japanese ability. With enough points, you get benefits, such as a longer stay and faster permanent residency. The technical intern system is being replaced by a new system called Employment for Skill Development, due by 2027.
How an application works
The usual order is a job offer, then your employer applies for a Certificate of Eligibility at the regional immigration bureau, which can take one to three months. When it is issued, you apply for the visa at a Japanese embassy or consulate with the certificate, and it is normally quick. You then enter Japan and receive your residence card at a major airport.
If you are already in Japan, for example as a student, you apply to change your status at the immigration bureau instead, and can stay while the application is processed.
Starting a business
The Business Manager status is for people who run or manage a company in Japan. From 16 October 2025, the rules were tightened, with the minimum capital rising from ¥5 million to ¥30 million, at least one full-time employee, a degree of Japanese ability, and management experience or a relevant degree.
Applicants who already hold the status may be treated more flexibly at renewal for a transition period, but you should check the Immigration Services Agency for your case. A startup visa for local entrepreneurs, through a city programme, is a different route.
Good to know
- Keep copies of your contract, tax certificate and employment records. They are needed at every renewal.
- Tell the immigration agency within 14 days if you change employer or your job changes.
- Do not take on side work that your status does not cover without applying for permission first.
Words you will see
- 技術・人文知識・国際業務 gijutsu, jinbun chishiki, kokusai gyōmu
- Engineer, Specialist in Humanities, International Services
- 高度専門職 kōdo senmonshoku
- Highly Skilled Professional
- 特定技能 tokutei ginō
- Specified Skilled Worker
- 経営・管理 keiei, kanri
- Business Manager
- 転職 tenshoku
- changing jobs
See also
Based on information from the Immigration Services Agency and law-firm summaries of the October 2025 Business Manager changes. Rules and fees checked in November 2026. Requirements depend on your nationality, status and case, and officials have some discretion. The Immigration Services Agency has the final word.