Japan Dependent Visa: Overview, Requirements, and Work Rules

Foreign nationals residing in Japan with one of 18 visa types—such as a work visa or business manager visa—can apply for a Dependent Visa to bring their family members. The Dependent Visa is limited to the spouse and children of the foreign resident. It’s important to note that holders of a Dependent Visa must comply with specific work-related restrictions.

Key points of this article are as follows:

✓The Dependent Visa allows foreign nationals with certain residence statuses to bring their family members to Japan. ✓Eligible sponsors hold one of 18 visa types, such as Professor, Artist, or Religious Activities. ✓Only spouses and children are eligible to be sponsored under the Dependent Visa. ✓The Dependent Visa has 11 possible durations of stay: 5 years, 4 years and 3 months, 4 years, 3 years and 3 months, 3 years, 2 years and 3 months, 2 years, 1 year and 3 months, 1 year, 6 months, or 3 months. ✓To apply, four main conditions must be met, including proof of financial means and evidence of family dependency. ✓Limited work is permitted under the Dependent Visa. ✓To work, dependents must obtain either a blanket permit or individual permission.

This article provides an overview of the eligibility, application process, and required documents for the Dependent Visa in Japan. It also explains key points regarding work restrictions under this visa.

Understanding the conditions and procedures for the Dependent Visa will help you prepare effectively.

1.What Is a Dependent Visa?

A Dependent Visa is a residence status that allows foreign nationals who are already living and working in Japan to bring their dependent family members (spouse and children) to live with them in Japan.

It is important to note that the sponsoring individual must hold one of 18 specified visa statuses, and only dependent family members are eligible for the Dependent Visa.

This section explains the basic information you should know about the Dependent Visa.

1-1. Residence Statuses Eligible for the Dependent Visa

The Dependent Visa applies to the following 18 residence statuses:

1. Professor
2. Artist
3. Religious Activities
4. Journalist
5. Highly Skilled Professional
6. Business Manager
7. Legal/Accounting Services
8. Medical Services
9. Researcher
10. Instructor
11. Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services
12. Intra-company Transferee
13. Care Worker
14. Entertainer
15. Skilled Labor
16. Cultural Activities
17. Student
18. Specified Skilled Worker (Category 2)

Most of these, except for Cultural Activities and Student, are categorized as work visas.

Residence Statuses That Cannot Sponsor a Dependent Visa

While most residence statuses eligible to sponsor a Dependent Visa are work-related, it’s important to note that the following statuses are not eligible: “Diplomat,” “Official,” “Specified Skilled Worker (Category 1),” and “Technical Intern Training.”

Additionally, those holding statuses such as “Temporary Visitor,” “Trainee,” “Dependent,” or certain types of “Designated Activities” cannot sponsor family members under a Dependent Visa.

ligible Family Members Under the Dependent Visa (Spouse and Children)

Although the term “family” is used broadly, the Dependent Visa is strictly limited to the sponsor’s spouse and children who are financially dependent. Even if there is a blood relationship, parents of the sponsor are not eligible for this visa.

Key points include:

• Legally married spouse (common-law partners and same-sex spouses are not eligible)
• Legally recognized children (including legitimate, illegitimate, and adopted children)
• Parents are not eligible for the Dependent Visa

The following sections provide a more detailed explanation.

Legally Married Spouse in a Valid Marital Relationship

Only a spouse who is in a legally valid and ongoing marital relationship is eligible. This excludes individuals who are widowed, divorced, or in a common-law partnership. Additionally, same-sex spouses, even if legally married in a foreign country, are not eligible under the Dependent Visa. (They may be eligible for a Designated Activities Visa outside the standard categories.)

Children with a Legally Recognized Parent-Child Relationship

Eligible children include legitimate children, adopted children (both regular and special adoptions), and legally recognized illegitimate children. Adult children can also be included; however, unless there are special circumstances (such as a serious medical condition requiring care), it is generally not possible to obtain a Dependent Visa for an adult child. This is because immigration authorities may suspect the child intends to work in Japan rather than remain as a dependent.

In general, the older the child, the lower the chances of visa approval. This is especially true when the child is not accompanying the parent to Japan at the same time but is instead joining them years later. In such cases, immigration may question whether the purpose of entry is truly as a dependent. If a child is being brought to Japan at a later time, a written explanation must be submitted detailing who supported the child in the home country until now and why the child will now be supported in Japan.

Parents Are Not Eligible for the Dependent Visa

Family members other than the spouse and children are not eligible for the Dependent Visa. To bring a parent from the home country to Japan, one must first invite them on a Temporary Visitor Visa. After arrival, the visa must be changed to a Designated Activities Visa (non-notified category) if certain conditions are met.

1-2. Period of Stay for the Dependent Visa

The Dependent Visa offers the following 11 possible periods of stay:

• 5 years
• 4 years and 3 months
• 4 years
• 3 years and 3 months
• 3 years
• 2 years and 3 months
• 2 years
• 1 year and 3 months
• 1 year
• 6 months
• 3 months

In principle, the Dependent Visa is only valid for the duration of the sponsoring foreign national’s residence in Japan under a work or similar visa.

If the sponsor’s application to renew their visa is denied, the Dependent Visa cannot be renewed independently. In such cases, the sponsor will be switched to a Designated Activities Visa (non-notified category) to prepare for departure. If the dependent’s visa renewal application is submitted at the same time as the sponsor’s and the sponsor’s renewal is denied, the dependent’s application will also be denied due to ineligibility, and they will also be transferred to a Designated Activities Visa for departure preparation.

However, even if the sponsor leaves Japan first, the Dependent Visa remains valid as long as its period of stay has not expired. Unless the visa is revoked under Article 22-4, Paragraph 1, Item 5 or 6 of the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act, the dependent may legally remain in Japan until the expiration of their current visa.

2.Requirements for Obtaining a Dependent Visa

The four main requirements for obtaining a Dependent Visa are as follows:

• The sponsor must have sufficient financial means to support their family in Japan.
• There must be evidence that the spouse or child is actually dependent on the sponsor.
• The family relationship must be clearly proven.
• The primary purpose of the dependent’s stay in Japan must not be to work.

Even if the applicant is eligible, failure to adequately prove these requirements may result in the visa being denied. It is important to understand these conditions in advance and prepare accordingly.

2-1. Proof of Family Relationship

Proof of family relationship is an essential requirement for obtaining a Dependent Visa. When applying, you must submit official documents that clearly demonstrate the relationship as a spouse or child.

Examples include a family register (such as a Japanese koseki tohon), birth certificates for children, and marriage certificates. These documents may need to be translated into Japanese before submission.

Details on the specific required documents will be explained later.

2-2. Proof of Actual Dependency on the Sponsor

Even if there is a legal relationship as a spouse or child, a Dependent Visa will not be granted unless actual dependency on the sponsor can be established. Unlike definitions used for health insurance or taxation, immigration authorities assess dependency based on the actual living situation.

For a spouse, it must be shown that they live with the sponsor and are financially dependent on them. In the case of a child, they must be under the care and support of the sponsor. Therefore, a spouse or child who is financially independent is not eligible. If the dependent earns more than the sponsor, the application is likely to be rejected. If the family member intends to work in Japan independently, they should apply for a work visa instead.

For children aged 18 or older, proving dependency becomes more difficult. Evidence such as being a full-time student and financially reliant on the parent is typically required.

2-3. The Sponsor Must Have Sufficient Financial Means to Support Their Family in Japan

When applying for a Dependent Visa to bring a spouse or child to Japan, the sponsor must demonstrate sufficient financial capacity to support the entire family. This requirement is strictly evaluated to ensure the family can maintain a stable life without financial hardship.

Since living expenses naturally increase when family members join the sponsor in Japan, a higher income is expected compared to living alone. While there is no fixed standard, immigration authorities consider various factors such as the sponsor’s income, cost of living in their area, and rent.

As a general guideline:

• Bringing only a spouse: annual income of at least ¥2.5 million
• Bringing a spouse and one child: at least ¥2.8 million
• Bringing a spouse and two children: at least ¥3.2 million

Even if the sponsor earns less than these estimates, a Dependent Visa may still be granted based on other factors such as savings, length of employment, or company-provided housing.

To prove financial capacity, applicants must submit documents such as tax certificates (kazei shomeisho) and income/tax payment certificates (nozei shomeisho). These documents show the sponsor has paid appropriate taxes and earns a stable income.

When bringing family from the home country, it is essential to meet these financial requirements. Authorities will assess whether the sponsor can afford life in Japan, based on income and living costs.

2-4. The Primary Purpose of Stay Must Not Be Employment

Even if the applicant is a spouse or child, they are not eligible for a Dependent Visa if their primary purpose for staying in Japan is to work. The Dependent Visa is intended solely for individuals who are financially dependent on a foreign national residing in Japan. If immigration authorities determine that the main purpose of the stay is employment, the visa application will be denied.

Activities permitted under a Dependent Visa are limited to “daily life activities.” These include tasks such as household duties or attending an educational institution. Employment is not included in these daily activities.

To engage in part-time work or other employment while on a Dependent Visa, one must first obtain a work permit known as “Permission to Engage in Activity Other Than That Permitted under the Status of Residence.” For more details, please refer to the section on work restrictions under the Dependent Visa.

Contact

3.Required Documents and Procedures for Applying for a Dependent Visa

Once the eligibility requirements for a Dependent Visa are met, you can proceed with the application process. To ensure a smooth application, it is essential to prepare all required documents accurately and completely.

This section explains in detail the necessary documents and the step-by-step procedures for applying for a Dependent Visa.

3-1. Required Documents for a Dependent Visa Application

The following documents are required when applying for a Dependent Visa:

• Application for Certificate of Eligibility
• Passport-style photo
• Self-addressed return envelope with ¥404 postage

Documents proving the family relationship between the applicant and the sponsor (e.g., family register, certificate of acceptance of marriage registration, copy of marriage certificate, copy of birth certificate)

Copy of the sponsor’s residence card or passport

Documents proving the sponsor’s occupation and income (e.g., certificate of employment, business license, certificate of municipal tax payment or exemption, tax payment certificate)

Incomplete or inaccurate documentation may delay the review process or result in a denial. Be sure to check everything carefully before submission.

3-2. Application Procedure for a Dependent Visa

The main steps for obtaining a Dependent Visa are as follows:

1. Prepare the required documents
2. Submit the Dependent Visa application
3. Undergo screening and review
4. Communicate and coordinate with the Immigration Bureau if needed
5. Receive the Dependent Visa (Certificate of Eligibility)

Once the Certificate of Eligibility is issued, send it to your family abroad. They must then apply for and obtain a visa at the Japanese embassy in their home country. After passing immigration screening at a Japanese airport, their entry into Japan is complete.

4.Work Restrictions for Dependent Visa Holders

One important point to keep in mind after obtaining a Dependent Visa is the restriction on employment. Since the Dependent Visa is not intended for working in Japan, there are limitations on engaging in part-time or other employment activities.

Violating these conditions may result in penalties, including the revocation of the visa status. This section explains in detail the work conditions and restrictions associated with the Dependent Visa.

4-1. Employment Is Allowed with Restrictions Under a Dependent Visa

In principle, employment is not permitted under a Dependent Visa. However, part-time work is allowed—up to 28 hours per week—if the visa holder obtains a “Permission to Engage in Activity Other Than That Permitted under the Status of Residence.”

This permission is required when engaging in income-generating activities or work that is not covered under the current visa status. Working without this permit is considered unauthorized employment and is illegal, so caution is necessary.

4-2. Types of Work Permits Required for Dependent Visa Holders

There are two types of permissions available for Dependent Visa holders: blanket permission and individual permission. It is possible to apply for one even if you already hold the other.

The appropriate type of permit depends on the nature of the work you intend to do. Understanding these permissions is essential to ensure lawful employment in Japan.

Blanket Permission

Blanket permission does not specify the employer or job content. It applies to part-time work within a limit of 28 hours per week. With blanket permission, there is no need to reapply each time the place of employment changes.

In most cases, family members staying in Japan on a Dependent Visa who wish to work part-time will apply for blanket permission. Only the application form is required for this process.

Individual Permission

Individual permission is granted for activities that specify the employer and job details. It is typically required for activities that fall outside the scope of blanket permission—such as work exceeding 28 hours per week or freelance/contract-based work where working hours cannot be objectively confirmed.

For individual permission, applicants must submit not only the application form but also a supporting document detailing compensation, job description, and working hours.

Contact

4-3. Important Points When Working on a Dependent Visa

When working under a Dependent Visa, be sure to keep the following two points in mind:

• Comply with the 28-hour-per-week limit under blanket permission
• Individual permission may be required for self-employment or contract-based work

Failure to follow the employment regulations can result in the revocation of your residence status in the worst-case scenario. Always follow the rules and obtain the appropriate permission to engage in activities outside your visa status in advance.

Follow the 28-Hour Limit Under Blanket Permission

When working part-time under blanket permission, you are allowed to work up to 28 hours per week. It’s advisable to inform your employer of this limitation and ask for their cooperation to ensure your working hours stay within the legal limit.

If you exceed the 28-hour limit, it may be considered unauthorized employment, which could lead to deportation. If you need to work more hours, you must either apply for individual permission or change to a different visa status that matches the job content.

Individual Permission May Be Required for Freelancers or Contractors

When working as a freelancer or under a contract arrangement, it is often difficult to clearly define working hours, unlike regular part-time jobs. If the contract does not specify working hours, you will likely need to apply for individual permission instead of relying on blanket permission.

However, if the contract (such as a service agreement) clearly states standard working hours, blanket permission may be sufficient for such employment.

5.Key Points When Changing from a Dependent Visa to Another Residence Status

Finally, let’s look at the conditions and important points to consider when changing from a Dependent Visa to another residence status. As mentioned earlier, the Dependent Visa imposes restrictions on activities in Japan, including limited permission to work.

If a foreign national residing in Japan on a Dependent Visa wishes to switch to another visa type for any reason, they must apply for a visa that matches their intended activities. This section focuses on two visa types that are commonly sought after when changing from a Dependent Visa: “Long-Term Resident” and “Designated Activities.”

5-1. Changing from a Dependent Visa to a “Long-Term Resident” Visa

A foreign national who has completed compulsory education in Japan and received a job offer after graduating from high school may be eligible to change from a Dependent Visa to a “Long-Term Resident” visa. The specific requirements for making this change include:

• Completion of compulsory education in Japan (elementary and junior high school)
• Graduation from a Japanese high school, or expected graduation
• Entry into Japan before the age of 18
• A confirmed or prospective job offer
• Fulfillment of public obligations (e.g., taxes, insurance)

This status is intended for those who came to Japan as dependents and have completed their education in Japan, from elementary through high school, and wish to work. Even if the individual plans to pursue university studies in the future but intends to work temporarily after high school, they may still apply for the Long-Term Resident visa.

5-2. Changing from a Dependent Visa to a “Designated Activities” Visa

If a foreign national residing in Japan on a Dependent Visa has not completed compulsory education in Japan but wishes to work after graduating from high school, they may be eligible to change to a “Designated Activities” visa. This visa is granted on a case-by-case basis depending on the applicant’s specific activities.

The main requirements for switching from a Dependent Visa to a Designated Activities visa are:

• Graduation from a Japanese high school (or expected graduation)
  (International schools, vocational schools, and Korean schools are not eligible. For those who transferred into a Japanese high school, JLPT N2 or higher is required.)
• The sponsor (parent/guardian) must still reside in Japan (to serve as a guarantor)
• Entry into Japan before the age of 18
• A confirmed or prospective job offer
• Fulfillment of public obligations (e.g., taxes, insurance)

While the requirements are similar to those for the Long-Term Resident visa, the key difference is that applicants who have not completed compulsory education in Japan can apply for Designated Activities status by securing a guarantor.

5-3. No Work Restrictions Under Long-Term Resident or Designated Activities Visas

Both the Long-Term Resident and Designated Activities visas come with no work restrictions. Unlike other work visas, there are no limitations on job type or duties, allowing holders to work in Japan under the same conditions as Japanese nationals.

6.Summary

This article outlined the key points foreign nationals should know when applying for a Dependent Visa in Japan. The main takeaways are as follows:

✓The Dependent Visa allows foreign nationals with certain residence statuses to bring their family members to Japan. ✓Eligible sponsors hold one of 18 visa types, such as Professor, Artist, or Religious Activities. ✓Only spouses and children are eligible to be sponsored under the Dependent Visa. ✓The Dependent Visa has 11 possible durations of stay: 5 years, 4 years and 3 months, 4 years, 3 years and 3 months, 3 years, 2 years and 3 months, 2 years, 1 year and 3 months, 1 year, 6 months, or 3 months. ✓To apply, four main conditions must be met, including proof of financial means and evidence of family dependency. ✓Limited work is permitted under the Dependent Visa. ✓To work, dependents must obtain either a blanket permit or individual permission.

When bringing a spouse or child to Japan on a Dependent Visa, it is crucial to understand the requirements and prepare all necessary documents without errors. If your family member wishes to work in Japan, be sure to apply for permission to engage in activities outside their visa status.

If preparing the Dependent Visa application feels overwhelming, consider consulting an experienced professional with the necessary knowledge and expertise. With proper preparation, you can ensure a smooth and successful visa application process.

Contact