The 2025 Regulatory Shift: A New Era for Business Management in Japan following the legal amendments in October 2025, the requirements for the Business Management Visa have become significantly more stringent. The mandatory investment has increased sixfold (to 30 million JPY), and a formal business evaluation by experts is now required.
This change marks a shift where direct entrepreneurship in Japan is now primarily reserved for “Professional Executives” with substantial financial backing.
The “Two-Tier” Strategy: J-Find as a 2-Year ‘Runway’
While the bar for the Business Management Visa has been raised, a specialized “runway” exists for high-achieving young talent who may lack immediate capital. The J-Find (Future Creation Individual) system, introduced in 2023, provides a 2-year preparation period, creating a clear distinction in Japan’s immigration strategy.
Launched in April 2023, J-Find is a revolutionary system that says: “If you are a talented graduate, you are welcome to stay in Japan for two years to prepare for your career or business.”
Key Requirements for J-Find
To qualify, candidates must meet all three of the following criteria:
- Educational Background: Graduation from a university ranked in the top 100 in at least two of the three major global rankings (QS, THE, or Shanghai Ranking).
- Graduation Window: Application must be within 5 years of graduation.
- Financial Stability: Proof of at least 200,000 JPY in savings for initial living expenses.
- Intent: A clear intention to engage in “job-seeking” or “entrepreneurial preparation” in Japan, supported by a formal Activity Plan.
Why Choose J-Find? (Comparison Table)
When compared to the rigorous new standards of the Business Management Visa (30M JPY capital), the flexibility of J-Find is evident.
| Category | Business Management (New 2025 Standard) | J-Find (Designated Activities No. 51) |
|---|---|---|
| Effective Since | October 2025 (Amendment) | April 2023 |
| Capital Requirement | 30 Million JPY or more | None (0 JPY is acceptable) |
| Office Space | Mandatory at the time of application | Not required initially |
| Duration of Stay | 1 year, 3 years, etc. (Renewable) | Max 2 years total |
| Primary Goal | Executing an established business | Preparing for a startup or job hunting |
Duration, Family, and Employment
- Period of Stay: Initially granted for 6 months or 1 year, renewable up to a maximum of 2 years.
- Family: Spouses and children are permitted to accompany the applicant (Designated Activities No. 52).
- Employment: Part-time work (Permission to Engage in Activity other than that Permitted) is allowed to support yourself while preparing for your career or business.
The Next Step: What happens after 2 years?
Please note that J-Find is strictly a “Preparation Visa.” Before the 2-year limit expires, you must transition to a standard working visa (e.g., Business Management or Highly Skilled Professional, Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services).
References:
- Immigration Services Agency of Japan: Japanese Link
- Official English Guide: English PDF