Japan Tightens $188,000 Visa Rule, Forcing Sri Lankan Curry Shop to Close
Updated
Updated · The New York Times · May 30
Japan Tightens $188,000 Visa Rule, Forcing Sri Lankan Curry Shop to Close
1 articles · Updated · The New York Times · May 30
Daiya Ceylon in Shimotsuke served its last meal after owner Mahendra Dharmapriya failed to meet Japan’s tougher business-manager visa requirements and said he would return to Sri Lanka this week.
The new rules raised the required capital to $188,000 from $31,000 and now require at least one full-time employee, part of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s push to more tightly regulate immigration and tourism.
About 47,000 foreigners hold the visa category now under heavier scrutiny as conservatives argue some applicants use it to remain in Japan indefinitely.
Foreigners account for only about 3% of Japan’s population, even as some experts say the country needs more immigrants to ease labor shortages and counter a shrinking population.
Japan's new visa rules target 'paper companies,' but are small businesses becoming the unintended casualties?
As Japan closes its doors to immigrants, is it also preparing for global conflict?
With 'Japan First' policies driving out entrepreneurs, who will power the nation's future economy?
Japan’s Business Manager Visa Overhaul: 30 Million Yen Capital Requirement Triggers Wave of Foreign Business Closures
Overview
In October 2025, Japan’s Immigration Services Agency raised the minimum capital for the 'business manager' residence status from 5 million yen to 30 million yen, causing an immediate and dramatic shift for foreign entrepreneurs. This steep increase created a major barrier, leading to a wave of business closures and deep uncertainty in foreign communities. Many established and aspiring business owners found the new requirement impossible to meet, fundamentally changing the landscape for international entrepreneurship in Japan. The impact is seen in personal stories, such as Chan Ka Yee closing her successful restaurant, and reflects a broader transformation affecting both businesses and communities.