Transition from Startup Visa (Designated Activities No. 44) to Business Manager Visa in Kumamoto | Shionaga Administrative Scrivener OfficeOverview of the Startup Visa (Designated Activities No. 44) in JapanThe Startup Visa, officially known as Designated Activities (Notification No. 44), is a special residence status for foreign entrepreneurs preparing to start a business in Japan. It allows up to 2 years (initially 6 months or 1 year, renewable) to complete preparations without immediately meeting the strict requirements of the Business Manager Visa.This program is part of the Foreign Entrepreneurial Activity Promotion Project, certified by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI). In Kumamoto City, the program launched in April 2025, making it easier for foreign nationals to establish businesses locally.The ultimate goal is to transition to the Business Manager Visa (official name: “Business Manager” status of residence) once preparations are complete. Our office provides comprehensive support from Startup Visa application through company incorporation to the final transition.Key Features of the Startup Visa

• Relaxed Initial Requirements: No need for immediate office setup, ¥5 million+ capital, or full-time employees.
• Permitted Activities: Securing office space, market research, fundraising, company establishment, and related preparations.
• Family Accompaniment: Spouse and children can join under Designated Activities No. 45.
• Progress Reporting: Monthly reports to the local municipality required.
• Duration: Maximum 2 years total.

Transition Process: From Startup Visa to Business Manager VisaThe transition involves changing your status of residence once you meet the Business Manager requirements during the preparation period.Steps for Transition

1. Complete Preparations: Secure a dedicated office, inject capital (typically ¥5 million+ or hire full-time staff), and launch operations.
2. Gather Evidence: Company registration, office lease, capital proof, business plan execution records.
3. Apply for Change of Status: Submit to the Fukuoka Regional Immigration Bureau (Kumamoto Branch).
4. Examination Period: 1–3 months.
5. Approval: Receive new residence card under Business Manager status (initially 1 year, renewable up to 5 years).

Important Note (2025 Amendments): Business Manager Visa criteria were tightened effective October 16, 2025 (e.g., stricter capital/employment rules). Transitional measures apply—if your Startup Visa confirmation certificate was issued before October 15, 2025, pre-amendment rules may be used for the change application.Kumamoto City’s Startup Visa Consultation DeskKumamoto City operates a dedicated consultation desk for foreign entrepreneurs:

• Location: Business support facility XOSS POINT.
  Address: Kumamoto Mori Tosshin Plaza 2F, 1-14-1 Kasuga, Nishi-ku, Kumamoto City, 860-0047 (directly connected to Kumamoto Station)
• Operating Hours: Every Tuesday, 9:00–12:00
  (If Tuesday is a holiday, shifted to the next business day)
• Consultation Methods: In-person, phone, or online (English available)
• Contact: JETRO Kumamoto
  Phone: 096-354-4211
• Services Provided:
  • Assistance with Business Preparation Activity Plan
  • Review and issuance of Confirmation Certificate
  • Monthly progress support

For immigration procedures, contact the Fukuoka Immigration Bureau Kumamoto Branch (Phone: 096-362-1721).Why Choose Shionaga Administrative Scrivener Office for Your Transition SupportAs a Certified Support Organization for Management Innovation, we specialize in foreign entrepreneur cases in Kumamoto:

• One-Stop Service: Business plan creation → Municipal application → Immigration application (No. 44 & 45) → Company setup → Transition to Business Manager Visa
• Collaborations: Judicial scriveners (registration), tax accountants (tax/finance)
• Proven Track Record: Extensive experience with foreign startups in Kumamoto
• Family Support: Simultaneous applications for spouse/children
• Free Initial Consultation: Available on weekends/evenings (by appointment)

We guide you through every step to ensure a smooth transition and long-term success in Japan.Contact Us for Consultation

• Phone: 096-385-9002
• Email: info@shionagaoffice.jp
• Website: https://shionagaoffice.jp/

Foreign entrepreneurs planning to start a business in Kumamoto—let us help turn your vision into reality.Shionaga Administrative Scrivener Corporation
1-9-6 Suizenji, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto City, Kumamoto Prefecture
Representative Administrative Scrivener: Kentaro Shionaga#KumamotoStartupVisa #DesignatedActivities44 #BusinessManagerVisaKumamoto #ForeignEntrepreneurKumamoto #CompanySetupKumamoto #AdministrativeScrivenerKumamoto #VisaApplicationKumamoto #ResidenceStatusKumamoto