Startup Visa (Specified Activities 44) to Business Manager Visa: Complete Transition Guide for Foreign Entrepreneurs in Kumamoto

The Startup Visa (Specified Activities No. 44) allows foreign entrepreneurs up to 2 years to prepare a business in Japan, serving as a strategic pathway to the Business Manager Visa amid 2025 reforms. Shionaga Administrative Scrivener Corporation in Kumamoto Central District supports English-speaking founders with plan certification, immigration applications, and seamless transition to full operations.

What is Japan’s Startup Visa (Specified Activities 44)?

Issued under the Foreign Startup Promotion Program, this visa targets entrepreneurs approved by METI-certified local governments (e.g., Tokyo, Fukuoka) via a “Startup Preparation Activity Plan Confirmation Certificate.” Permits market research, funding, and office setup—but no revenue-generating activities—for 6 months to 2 years max. Ideal bridge to Business Manager Visa, especially post-Oct 16, 2025 tightening (¥30M capital, 1 full-time hire required).

Key Requirements for Startup Visa Approval

Realistic 1-year plan: Secure ¥30M capital, 1 full-time Japanese employee (B2/N2 level), office lease
Applicant qualifications: University degree, 3+ years business experience, or equivalent
Growth potential: IT, biotech, manufacturing preferred; detailed business plan with exit strategy
No prior Japan residency required, but N2 Japanese recommended for transition

Kumamoto’s low costs and subsidies make it entrepreneur-friendly.

Required Documents Checklist

Category	Document	Notes
Application	COE Application Form, 4x3cm photo, passport copy	Use latest Immigration template
Business Plan	Confirmation Certificate (from certifier), detailed plan, financial projections	Expert-verified for credibility
Proofs	Bank statements (¥5M+ ideal pre-reform), resume, diplomas/experience certs	English OK; apostille if needed
Support	Recommendation letters, market analysis	Kumamoto Chamber of Commerce coordination available

Step-by-Step Application Process

Select certifier (e.g., Tokyo Startup Visa program); submit plan for review (1-2 months)
Obtain Confirmation Certificate; apply for COE at Fukuoka Immigration (Kumamoto Branch) (1-3 months review)
Embassy visa issuance; enter Japan, receive Residence Card
Conduct prep activities; track progress toward Business Manager criteria

We handle proxy filing and supplements.

Transition to Business Manager Visa (Post-Oct 2025 Rules)

Timing: Apply change before Startup expires (3 months prior)
New thresholds: ¥30M capital, 1 full-time hire (Japanese B2), master’s/3+ years mgmt experience, expert-verified plan
Transitional: Pre-Oct 16 certs use old ¥5M rule until 2028 renewals
Startup period counts as “management experience” under reforms

Success rate boosts with Kumamoto incorporation support.

Renewal and Risks to Avoid

Renewal: Progress report required; max 2 years total
Common pitfalls: Unrealistic plans, insufficient funds proof, no office reality
Post-transition: Tax/insurance compliance scrutinized

Benefits for Kumamoto Startups

Cost-effective base: Low rent, construction/介護/IT subsidies
Family option: Spouse/child on No. 45 visa
Pathway to PR: 10 years residency viable

Shionaga Office Support Services

Full assistance: Certifier liaison, plan drafting, COE/transition apps (fees from ¥150,000 ex-tax). Company setup, permits, grants integrated.

Free Initial Consultation

Contact: 096-385-9002 / info@shionagaoffice.jp (English available). Kumamoto Central, online/Zoom OK. Start your Japan venture today.