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(Japan Times)‘My dream is broken’: Japan visa rules push out foreign residents

Release Date
2026-07-01
Media
Japan Times
Summary
Japan’s stricter business manager visa rules, introduced in late 2025, are creating uncertainty for many foreign entrepreneurs despite the country’s labor shortages and aging population. The new requirements, including raising the minimum capital requirement from ¥5 million to ¥30 million and additional employment conditions, have left many small business owners worried they will be unable to renew their visas.

The article highlights the case of Nepalese restaurant owner Budhathoki Samjhana, who fears losing the business she spent years building and being forced to leave Japan with her daughter. Other entrepreneurs, including long-term Indian restaurant owner Manish Kumar, have also faced visa renewal difficulties despite operating successful businesses for many years.

The policy reflects the government’s broader effort to tighten immigration controls under Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, following growing public concerns about immigration, foreign investment, and overtourism. The Justice Ministry has also promoted a “zero illegal foreign residents” policy and increased scrutiny of visa applications.

Government advisers argue that the reforms are intended to prevent abuse of the business manager visa by applicants without genuine business plans. However, they acknowledge that the stricter rules are also affecting legitimate small business owners and young entrepreneurs. Critics argue that the new requirements are especially difficult to satisfy given Japan’s labor shortages, making it harder for foreign-owned businesses to survive and continue contributing to the economy.
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Business Manager

News Articles including "Business Manager"

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