Understanding the Business Plan required for “Business Manager” Status of Residence Application

What is a Business Plan?

• A Business Plan, in the context of “Business Manager” visa applications, is a crucial document that evaluates the stability and continuity of a business during the visa screening process. If the company is already in business, a certified copy of a corporate registry with all historical matters, a financial report, and a statutory report of withholding slips of all the employees’ previous year’s salary will be required to show the legitimacy of the business.
• A Business Plan serves as a roadmap for the business to outline the strategies and actions needed for success.
• There isn’t a fixed format for creating a Business Plan, and various templates can be found online, serving as valuable references.

What is a Business Plan for a “Business Manager” Visa Application?

• When applying for a “Business Manager” visa, the Business Plan becomes a vital document. However, the Immigration Agency doesn’t provide specific guidelines on its content. Therefore, applicants must deduce the required information and prepare a plan tailored to each application.
• For instance, when submitting the plan to the Immigration Agency and a bank, different information may be needed. In essence, the “Business Manager” visa application requires evidence of business stability and continuity.

What Should be Included in a Business Plan for a “Business Manager” Visa?

While specific content isn’t dictated by the Immigration Agency, the following elements are typically included:

• – Company Profile
• – Applicant’s Background
• – Reasons for Establishing the Business in Japan
• – Business Model
• – Market Analysis and Target Audience
• – Description of Products and Services
• – Details of Business Partners (Suppliers, Customers, etc.)
• – Competitor Analysis and Differentiation Strategies
• – Organizational Structure and Staffing Plans
• – Budget Projections

The Business Plan should address these key questions:

• – Who is the applicant, and why do they want to conduct business in Japan?
• – Is the proposed project feasible?
• – How is the organizational structure planned, and what are the sales strategies?
• – Are there profit and loss projections for the upcoming years?

Importance of a Business Plan

• Preparing a Business Plan requires time and effort but is a document that showcases your commitment and seriousness about the business. A well-prepared plan can significantly enhance your chances of obtaining a “Business Manager” visa.
• The plan serves as a tool to demonstrate your motives and plans to the Immigration Agency. By aligning your proposal with what the Immigration Agency seeks, you increase the likelihood of approval.
• If you prefer to focus on business operations or are unsure about document preparation, consider consulting a specialist to assist with the visa application process. This can free up your time for other business preparations and improve the prospects of a smooth business launch.