Spouse Visa in Japan: Process, Requirements, and Documents

A Spouse Visa is a visa that can be obtained by the spouse of a Japanese national or a foreign national with permanent residency in Japan. Once granted, it allows the holder to stay in Japan for a mid- to long-term period based on their status as a spouse.

In Japan, visas based on the status of “Spouse or Child of Japanese National or Permanent Resident” are not limited to foreign spouses; children of Japanese nationals and permanent residents are also eligible. For this reason, the visa is officially referred to as the “Spouse or Child of Japanese National or Permanent Resident Visa.”

To obtain this visa, certain requirements must be met, and the necessary documents must be submitted to the Immigration Services Agency.

The key points of this article are as follows:

✓There are two types of “Spouse or Child Visa”: the “Spouse or Child of Japanese National Visa” and the “Spouse or Child of Permanent Resident Visa.” These can be obtained by the spouse, child, or special adopted child of a Japanese national or permanent resident. ✓To qualify for a Spouse or Child Visa, applicants must meet certain requirements such as having a valid marital or parent-child relationship and being able to maintain a household as a family.✓ There are two main ways to obtain a Spouse or Child Visa: inviting the foreign spouse or child from overseas to Japan (Application for Certificate of Eligibility) or changing the status of residence of a foreign national already staying in Japan to a Spouse or Child Visa (Application for Change of Status of Residence).✓When a foreign spouse applies for a Spouse or Child Visa, documents proving the relationship (such as a marriage certificate) and the ability to cover living expenses (such as financial proof) are required.✓In addition to the required documents, preparing and submitting a Statement of Reasons is a key point for successfully obtaining approval for a Spouse or Child Visa.

In this article, we have summarized the overview of the Spouse Visa, its eligibility requirements, and the documents needed for application. We also highlight important points to keep in mind during the application process.

By understanding the application flow and required documents in advance, you can ensure a smoother visa application. Be sure to read through the details.

1.What Is the Spouse or Child Visa in Japan?

The term “Spouse or Child Visa” refers to two types of residence status in Japan:

• Spouse or Child of Japanese National Visa: available to the spouse, child, or special adopted child of a Japanese national.
• Spouse or Child of Permanent Resident Visa: available to the spouse, child, or special adopted child of a foreign national with permanent residency in Japan.

In other words, there are two types of visas that allow individuals to reside in Japan based on their status as a spouse or child. The details are explained below.

1-1. Eligible Applicants for the Spouse or Child of Japanese National Visa

The Spouse or Child of Japanese National Visa (residence status “Spouse or Child of Japanese National”) applies not only to Japanese nationals’ spouses, as the word “spouse” suggests, but also to their children and special adopted children.

Spouse

As the name indicates, a valid and legally recognized marriage with a Japanese national is required. Common-law partnerships and same-sex marriages (even if recognized under the foreign spouse’s home country law) are not included.

Individuals who are already divorced or widowed are also not eligible.

Child of a Japanese National

A child whose father or mother is a Japanese national is eligible for the Spouse or Child of Japanese National Visa. Even if the parents are not married, as long as either parent is Japanese at the time of birth, the child qualifies for this visa.

Eligibility as a “child of a Japanese national” is determined at the time of birth.

If a parent holds Japanese nationality at the time of the child’s birth, the child remains eligible for the visa even if that parent later renounces Japanese nationality and acquires foreign nationality. However, if the parent did not have Japanese nationality at the time of birth (for example, a second-generation Japanese descendant), the child is not eligible for the Spouse or Child of Japanese National Visa, even if they later acquire Japanese nationality. In such cases, the appropriate status is “Long-Term Resident.”

A child is eligible as long as they are the child of a Japanese national.

This includes not only children born to married Japanese parents (legitimate children), but also children born to unmarried Japanese parents and children who have been legally acknowledged. Both minors and adults are eligible for the Spouse or Child of Japanese National Visa.

Place of Birth of the Child

Children are eligible regardless of their place of birth. Whether born overseas or in Japan, there are no restrictions based on birthplace.

Specially Adopted Child

A specially adopted child, whose legal relationship with their biological parents is terminated, is eligible. A special adoption is a procedure in which a married couple adopts a child under the age of 15, following a six-month trial custody period and approval by the family court. Ordinary adoptions are not eligible.

1-2. Eligible Applicants for the Spouse or Child of Permanent Resident Visa

The Spouse or Child of Permanent Resident Visa (residence status “Spouse or Child of Permanent Resident”) applies not only to the spouse of a Permanent Resident or Special Permanent Resident, as the word “spouse” suggests, but also to their children born in Japan.

Spouse

As the name indicates, a valid and legally recognized marriage with a Permanent Resident is required. Common-law partnerships and same-sex marriages are not included. Even same-sex marriages legally recognized abroad are not eligible for the Spouse or Child of Permanent Resident Visa. However, in the case of a valid same-sex marriage between two foreign nationals, Japan may grant a “Designated Activities” visa on humanitarian grounds.

Those who are already divorced or widowed are also not eligible.

Child Born in Japan to a Permanent Resident

A child born in Japan who continues to reside in Japan after birth is eligible if, at the time of birth, either the father or mother was a Permanent Resident (or, if the father passed away before the child’s birth, he held Permanent Resident status at the time of death).

Even if the parents are not married, the child is eligible as long as one parent was a Permanent Resident at the time of birth.

Eligibility as a “child of a Permanent Resident” is determined at the time of birth. If a parent was a Permanent Resident at the time of birth, the child remains eligible even if the parent later loses Permanent Resident status. However, if neither parent held Permanent Resident status at the time of birth, the child is not eligible for the Spouse or Child of Permanent Resident Visa, even if they later acquire Japanese nationality.

A child is eligible as long as they are the child of a Permanent Resident.

This includes not only children born to married Permanent Resident parents (legitimate children), but also children born to unmarried Permanent Resident parents and children who have been legally acknowledged. Both minors and adults are eligible for the Spouse or Child of Permanent Resident Visa.

Place of Birth of the Child

For eligibility, the child must be born in Japan.

Even if the child is the son or daughter of a Permanent Resident, those born overseas are not included (children born abroad to Permanent Residents may instead qualify for “Long-Term Resident” status). Unlike the Spouse or Child of Japanese National Visa, birth outside Japan is not recognized.

Furthermore, if the parents acquire Permanent Resident status after the child’s birth, the child is not eligible for the Spouse or Child of Permanent Resident Visa, even if the child has been living with and supported by the parents (though the status may be changed to “Long-Term Resident”). By contrast, when a parent acquires Permanent Resident status, their spouse becomes eligible for the Spouse or Child of Permanent Resident Visa — a key difference from the treatment of children.

For this reason, when applying for Permanent Resident status, it is advisable that the spouse and children also apply for Permanent Resident status at the same time to avoid differing visa statuses within the family.

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2. Period of Stay for the Spouse or Child Visa in Japan

The period of stay for both the Spouse or Child of Japanese National Visa and the Spouse or Child of Permanent Resident Visa can be 5 years, 3 years, 1 year, or 6 months. While applicants may state their preferred period of stay in the application documents, the granted period will not necessarily match the requested duration.

2-1. Period of Stay for a Spouse Visa

For a spouse visa, the period of stay is determined comprehensively by the Immigration Services Agency. In addition to legal notification obligations under the Immigration Control Act, various public obligations, and the tax obligations of the primary household supporter, factors such as the marital situation and the stability of the couple’s lifestyle are also taken into account.

2-2. Period of Stay for a Child’s Visa

For a child’s visa, the period of stay is determined based not only on the applicant child but also on the parent(s) supporting the child. The Immigration Services Agency reviews the parent’s legal notification obligations under the Immigration Control Act, various public obligations, and the tax obligations of the primary household supporter.

2-3. Granted Period of Stay

In general, the initial visa is often granted for one year. After that, it is usually extended for another year, and at the second renewal, if the immigration officer determines that annual checks are no longer necessary based on the stability of the marriage and living situation, a longer-term visa of three or five years may be granted (the ideal progression being 1 year → 1 year → 3 years (or 5 years)). Note that the applicant’s requested period is not always granted.

The maximum period of “5 years” is often given to spouses who have demonstrated a stable married life in Japan over a long period at the time of renewal. On the other hand, the minimum period of “6 months” may be granted under specific circumstances, such as when the applicant is in the middle of divorce mediation and living separately. Both the “5-year” and “6-month” periods were newly established under the July 2012 legal amendment.

With a three-year Spouse or Child Visa, it becomes possible to apply for permanent residency. For this reason, aiming to obtain and renew the three-year visa is generally the standard practice.

3. Activities Permitted Under the Spouse or Child Visa in Japan

When staying in Japan on a Spouse Visa (residence status “Spouse or Child of Japanese National”), there are no restrictions on activities. As long as Japanese laws are observed and public order and morality are not violated, the visa holder is free to choose work or education. In other words, unlike the Dependent Visa, the Spouse or Child Visa carries no work restrictions, allowing the holder to work freely.

Foreign nationals with a Spouse or Child Visa can engage in employment and also support their Japanese spouse in the same way as Japanese nationals.

4. Requirements for Obtaining a Spouse or Child Visa

To obtain a Spouse or Child Visa, certain requirements must be met.

The following conditions must all be satisfied:

• A recognized family relationship with a Japanese national or a Permanent Resident
• In the case of a spouse, a valid marital relationship with a Japanese national or Permanent Resident
• The ability to maintain a stable livelihood

Each of these requirements is explained below.

4-1. Family Relationship Between a Japanese National and a Foreign National

To obtain a Spouse or Child Visa, the foreign applicant must be the spouse or child of a Japanese national or a Permanent Resident, meeting the eligibility requirements described earlier. Therefore, it is necessary to provide documents that prove the family relationship with the Japanese national or Permanent Resident, such as a family register (koseki tohon), certificate of acceptance of marriage registration, marriage certificate, or birth certificate.

4-2. In the Case of a Spouse: A Valid Marital Relationship with a Japanese National or Permanent Resident

The primary purpose of the Spouse or Child Visa is to live together with a Japanese national or Permanent Resident. Accordingly, activities in Japan must be consistent with one’s status as a spouse or child. In the case of a spouse, this requires having a valid marital relationship with a Japanese national or Permanent Resident.

Marriage, in this context, means living together as husband and wife, mutually supporting one another, and maintaining a shared life in line with social norms. If there is no real marital relationship—such as in a “sham marriage”—a Spouse or Child Visa will not be granted.

When applying for this visa, applicants must submit documents such as a marriage certificate. In cases of de facto marriages (common-law relationships) where no official documents can prove the marital relationship, it is generally considered difficult to obtain a spouse visa.

The Immigration Services Agency requires not only proof of marriage but also evidence of the actual marital relationship. Applicants may be asked to provide supporting documents that demonstrate the reality of their married life. If the submitted documents raise doubts, on-site investigations such as home visits may be conducted.

Particular caution is needed in the following situations regarding marital relationships:

When the Couple Does Not Live Together

The reality of a marriage is primarily judged based on whether the couple lives together.

If the spouses are not living together due to work or other circumstances, it is necessary to provide a detailed written explanation of the situation. In addition, evidence such as photographs, email records, or other documents should be submitted to prove the existence of a genuine marital relationship.

When There Is a Large Age Difference Between Spouses

If there is a significant age gap between the spouses, the marriage is more likely to be closely scrutinized. In such cases, it is necessary to prepare a written explanation detailing the circumstances that led to the marriage as well as the couple’s living situation after marriage.

When There Is a History of Divorce

If the foreign spouse of a Japanese national has a history of divorce, the marriage may also be subject to strict scrutiny. As with cases involving a significant age difference, it is necessary to provide a written explanation describing the circumstances.

When the Shared Residence Is Too Small

If the couple and their child live in a very small residence, such as a one-room apartment, the authenticity of their cohabitation may be questioned. The living space is expected to be appropriate for the number of family members residing together.

4-3. Ability to Maintain a Stable Livelihood

The ability to maintain a stable livelihood is a requirement for obtaining the visa.

However, since the requirement is for the family as a whole to be financially stable, it does not matter whether the Japanese spouse or the foreign spouse bears the living expenses. Unlike the Dependent Visa, it is not necessary for the foreign applicant to be financially supported by the Japanese spouse.The Immigration Services Agency reviews documents such as tax certificates and other proof of occupation and income of both the foreign applicant and the Japanese spouse.

The approximate income requirement is calculated by multiplying ¥780,000 by the total number of the applicant and their dependents. For example, for two people the guideline is ¥1,560,000, and for three people it is ¥2,340,000.

Unlike the Dependent Visa, which assumes financial support, the Spouse or Child Visa does not require the applicant to be supported by their spouse. Regardless of age or employment status, the visa can be applied for and obtained—for instance, even individuals working full-time are eligible.

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5. Two Ways to Obtain a Spouse or Child Visa in Japan

There are two main ways to obtain a Spouse or Child Visa:

• Certificate of Eligibility (COE) Application
• Change of Status of Residence

Each option is explained below.

5-1. Bringing a Foreign Spouse or Child from Abroad (Certificate of Eligibility)

A Certificate of Eligibility refers to the process of applying for and obtaining a new residence status for a person who does not yet have one in Japan. This mainly applies to cases where a foreign spouse or child residing overseas is invited to come and live in Japan.

5-2. Changing the Residence Status of a Spouse or Child Residing in Japan to a Spouse Visa (Change of Status of Residence)

A change of status of residence refers to the process of applying for and obtaining a different residence status for a person who already holds some form of residence status and is residing in Japan. This typically applies, for example, in cases where a foreign national residing in Japan on a student visa or work visa marries a Japanese national.

Since the spouse visa is not subject to employment restrictions, it may allow greater freedom to work. In addition, one of the features of the spouse visa is that it lowers the hurdles for meeting the requirements for permanent residency or naturalization in the future.

6.Application Documents for a Japanese Spouse Visa

The documents required for applying for a spouse visa in Japan vary depending on the application pattern. Below is an outline of the necessary documents, divided into Certificate of Eligibility and Change of Status of Residence.

6-1. Bringing a Foreign Spouse from Abroad (Certificate of Eligibility)

The Certificate of Eligibility is applied for by submitting the required documents.

Below, the explanation is divided into the Spouse of a Japanese National Visa and the Spouse of a Permanent Resident Visa.

Spouse of a Japanese National Visa

• Application for Certificate of Eligibility
• Photograph
• Family Register (Koseki Tohon) of the Japanese spouse
• Marriage certificate issued in the applicant’s home country
• Documents showing living expenses in Japan
• Letter of Guarantee and Certificate of Residence (Juminhyo) of the Japanese spouse
• Questionnaire
• Materials that can confirm the relationship and interactions between the couple
• Self-addressed return envelope

Each of these documents is introduced below.

Application for Certificate of Eligibility

Complete all the required fields in the Application for Certificate of Eligibility and submit it. The application form can be downloaded from the following link:

Ministry of Justice | Application for Certificate of Eligibility

Photograph

One photograph must be attached to the above application form. The photo must be 40mm in height and 30mm in width, showing the applicant’s face in the center, taken without a hat, facing forward, and with no background.

Family Register (Koseki Tohon) of the Japanese Spouse

The family register (Koseki Tohon) of the Japanese spouse is required. If the marriage with the visa applicant is not recorded in the family register, a Certificate of Acceptance of Marriage Notification must be submitted in addition to the family register.

Marriage Certificate Issued in the Applicant’s Home Country

A marriage certificate issued in the applicant’s home country is required. In countries that maintain a family register, such as South Korea, a family register that records the marriage may be submitted as a substitute.

Documents Showing Living Expenses in Japan

Documents proving the living expenses of the visa applicant in Japan are required. For example, if the applicant’s spouse will cover the living expenses, the spouse’s tax payment certificate and tax certificate for the past year must be submitted. If it is difficult to provide such tax documents, a copy of a bankbook may be accepted as a substitute.

Letter of Guarantee and Certificate of Residence (Juminhyo) of the Japanese Spouse

A letter of guarantee completed by the Japanese spouse for the visa applicant is required. This must be submitted together with the spouse’s certificate of residence (Juminhyo), which includes all household members.

Questionnaire

You are required to answer questions regarding the background of your marriage and your mutual language understanding. The questionnaire can also be downloaded from the following link.

Ministry of Justice | Questionnaire (for Certificate of Eligibility / Change of Status of Residence)

Materials Confirming the Relationship Between the Couple

Items such as snapshots of the couple are required. Records of communication through social media or phone calls are also acceptable.

Self-Addressed Return Envelope

If the visa is issued, you will be notified by mail. Submit a self-addressed return envelope with your postal code, address, and name written on it, along with a postage stamp affixed.

Reference: Immigration Services Agency of Japan | Status of Residence “Spouse or Child of Japanese National”

Spouse or Child of Permanent Resident Visa

• Application for Certificate of Eligibility
• Photograph
• Marriage Certificate issued by the applicant’s country and Family Register (Koseki Tohon) of the spouse (permanent resident)
• Documents showing living expenses in Japan
• Letter of Guarantee and Certificate of Residence (Juminhyo) of the spouse (Japanese)
• Questionnaire
• Materials confirming communication between the couple
• Self-addressed stamped envelope

I will introduce each of these documents.

Application for Certificate of Eligibility

Fill in all the required information on the Application for Certificate of Eligibility and submit it. The application form can be downloaded from the link below:

Ministry of Justice | Application for Certificate of Eligibility

Photograph

One photograph must be attached to the above application form. The photo must be 40mm in height and 30mm in width, showing the face centered, taken without a hat, facing forward, and with no background.

Marriage Certificate issued by the spouse (permanent resident) and the applicant’s country / Family Register

A marriage certificate issued by the country of the visa applicant and the spouse (permanent resident) is required. In countries that maintain a family register system, such as Korea, a Family Register (Koseki Tohon) showing the marriage can be submitted instead. If the marriage has been registered with a Japanese municipal office, a Certificate of Acceptance of Marriage Registration must also be submitted.

Documents Showing Living Expenses in Japan

Documents demonstrating the living expenses of the visa applicant in Japan are required. For example, if the applicant’s spouse will cover the living expenses, the spouse’s Certificate of Municipal Taxation (for the past year) and Certificate of Tax Payment must be submitted. If it is difficult to provide such tax certificates, copies of bank passbooks may be accepted as an alternative.

Letter of Guarantee and Certificate of Residence of the Spouse (Permanent Resident)

A Letter of Guarantee completed by the spouse (permanent resident) for the visa applicant is required. This must be submitted together with the spouse’s Certificate of Residence (Juminhyo) listing all household members.

Questionnaire

You are required to answer questions regarding the background of your marriage and your mutual language understanding. The questionnaire can also be downloaded from the link below:

Ministry of Justice | Questionnaire (for Certificate of Eligibility / Change of Status)

Documents Confirming Communication Between the Couple

Items such as snapshots of the couple are required. Records of communication through SNS or phone calls are also acceptable.

Self-Addressed Stamped Envelope

If the visa is issued, you will be notified by mail. Please prepare and submit a self-addressed stamped envelope with your postal code, address, and name written on it.

Reference: Immigration Services Agency of Japan | Status of Residence “Spouse or Child of Permanent Resident”

6-2. Case of Changing the Status of Residence of a Spouse Residing in Japan to a Spouse Visa (Change of Status of Residence)

When applying to change the current visa to a Spouse Visa, the required documents must be submitted. Below is an explanation divided into Spouse of Japanese National Visa and Spouse of Permanent Resident Visa.

Spouse of Japanese National Visa

• Application for Change of Status of Residence
• Photograph
• Family Register (Koseki Tohon) of the Japanese spouse
• Marriage Certificate issued by the applicant’s country
• Documents showing living expenses in Japan
• Letter of Guarantee and Certificate of Residence of the Japanese spouse
• Passport and Residence Card (originals to be presented)

I will introduce each of these documents.

Application for Change of Status of Residence

Fill in the required information on the Application for Change of Status of Residence and submit it. The application form can be downloaded from the link below:

Ministry of Justice | Application for Change of Status of Residence

Photograph

One photograph must be attached to the above application form. The rules for the photo are the same as those for the Certificate of Eligibility application. In addition, snapshots of the couple or records of communication must also be submitted.

Family Register (Koseki Tohon) of the Japanese Spouse

The Family Register of the applicant’s spouse (Japanese) is required. If the marriage is not recorded, a Certificate of Acceptance of Marriage Registration must also be submitted.

Marriage Certificate issued by the Applicant’s Country

A marriage certificate issued by the applicant’s country is required. If a family register is maintained, a Family Register that records the marriage is also acceptable.

Documents Showing Living Expenses in Japan

Documents showing the applicant’s living expenses in Japan are required. The document requirements are the same as in the Certificate of Eligibility case.

Letter of Guarantee and Certificate of Residence of the Japanese Spouse

A Letter of Guarantee and a Certificate of Residence of the Japanese spouse are required. The document requirements are the same as in the Certificate of Eligibility case.

Passport and Residence Card (originals to be presented)

The applicant’s passport and residence card must be presented. Even if someone other than the applicant submits the application documents, the originals must still be presented.

Reference: Immigration Services Agency of Japan | Status of Residence “Spouse or Child of Japanese National”

Spouse or Child of Permanent Resident Visa

• Application for Change of Status of Residence
• Photograph
• Marriage Certificate issued by the spouse (permanent resident) and the applicant’s country / Family Register
• Documents showing living expenses in Japan
• Letter of Guarantee and Certificate of Residence of the spouse (permanent resident)
• Passport and Residence Card (originals to be presented)

I will introduce each of these documents.

Application for Change of Status of Residence

Fill in the required information on the Application for Change of Status of Residence and submit it. The application form can be downloaded from the link below:

Ministry of Justice | Application for Change of Status of Residence

Photograph

One photograph must be attached to the above application form. The rules for the photo are the same as those for the Certificate of Eligibility application. In addition, snapshots of the couple or records of communication must also be submitted.

Marriage Certificate issued by the spouse (permanent resident) and the applicant’s country / Family Register

A marriage certificate issued by the country of the visa applicant and the spouse (permanent resident) is required. In countries that maintain a family register system, such as Korea, a Family Register showing the marriage can be submitted instead. If the marriage has been registered with a Japanese municipal office, a Certificate of Acceptance of Marriage Registration must also be submitted.

Documents Showing Living Expenses in Japan

Documents demonstrating the visa applicant’s living expenses in Japan are required. The document requirements are the same as in the Certificate of Eligibility case.

Letter of Guarantee and Certificate of Residence of the Spouse (Permanent Resident)

A Letter of Guarantee and a Certificate of Residence of the spouse (permanent resident) are required. The document requirements are the same as in the Certificate of Eligibility case.

Passport and Residence Card (originals to be presented)

The applicant’s passport and residence card must be presented. Even if someone other than the applicant submits the application documents, the originals must still be presented.

Reference: Immigration Services Agency of Japan | Status of Residence “Spouse or Child of Permanent Resident”

7.Application Procedure Flow for Spouse Visa in Japan

The application procedure flow for a Spouse Visa differs depending on whether it is for a Certificate of Eligibility to invite a foreign spouse from overseas, or for a Change of Status of Residence for a foreign spouse already residing in Japan.

7-1. When Inviting a Foreign Spouse from Overseas

The Application for Certificate of Eligibility will be carried out according to the following procedure.

Collect Application Documents

Gather all the required application documents. If any deficiencies are found at the time of submission, the visa application will not be accepted.

Submit to the Immigration Bureau

Submit the documents to the Immigration Bureau. Be sure to check the business hours of the nearest Immigration Bureau before going.

Undergo Examination

The examination period takes about 1 to 3 months. During this time, if there are any missing documents, additional documents may be requested.

Notification of Examination Results

The result of the application, whether approved or not, will be sent by mail. In the case of disapproval, contact the Immigration Services Agency to confirm the reason and gather information for a possible re-application.

Issuance of the Certificate of Eligibility

If approved, a Certificate of Eligibility will be issued. Send this certificate to the spouse living overseas.

Apply for a Visa at the Local Japanese Embassy

The foreign spouse must take this certificate to the local Japanese embassy to apply for a visa.

Entry into Japan

Once the above procedures are completed, the spouse will be able to enter Japan.

7-2. When Changing the Visa of a Foreign Spouse Living in Japan to a Spouse Visa

If you wish to change the status of residence of a foreign spouse already living in Japan to “Spouse or Child of Japanese National,” the “Application for Change of Status of Residence” must be carried out according to the following steps.

Collect Application Documents

Gather all the required application documents. If any deficiencies are found at the time of submission, the visa application will not be accepted.

Submit to the Immigration Bureau

Bring the necessary documents to the Immigration Services Agency office that has jurisdiction over the region where you live together after marriage. The submission office differs depending on your place of residence—it will be either the Immigration Services Agency or its branch office.

Undergo Examination

The examination usually takes about 1 to 3 months. During this period, you may be asked to submit additional documents if necessary, so it is important to respond promptly.

Notification of Examination Results

The results of the examination will be sent by mail. If approved, the residence card will be updated to reflect the new status of residence “Spouse or Child of Japanese National,” and an initial period of stay, usually one year, will be granted. You must bring the required documents to the Immigration Services Agency to receive the updated residence card.

8.Important Points to Note When Applying for a Spouse Visa in Japan

Here is a summary of the key points to keep in mind when applying for a Spouse Visa. Be sure to check them carefully.

8-1. Prepare and Submit a Statement of Reasons Separately from the Required Documents

In the application for a Spouse Visa, the Statement of Reasons and supporting evidence are extremely important elements in the examination process. In particular, the Statement of Reasons for the spouse’s visa must describe in detail the background of the relationship leading up to the marriage—that is, the process from meeting to marriage. The Immigration Services Agency strictly examines whether the issuance of the visa is appropriate based on this information.

Therefore, the Statement of Reasons should not merely list facts, but rather serve as persuasive material to demonstrate that the marital relationship is genuine. Various forms of evidence should be prepared to prove the couple’s shared life and bond. Since such evidence can significantly affect the outcome of the visa application, meticulous care should be taken in preparing the Statement of Reasons.

8-2. All Submitted Documents Must Be Issued Within the Last Three Months

Only documents issued within the last three months may be submitted. However, the photograph attached to the application form may be accepted if it was taken within the last six months.

8-3. Attach Japanese Translations to Foreign-Language Documents

When submitting documents in a foreign language, a Japanese translation must be attached. However, documents such as the questionnaire, which can be downloaded from the Ministry of Justice website, may be submitted in their original foreign language.

8-4. Complete the Marriage Procedure Before Applying for the Visa

When applying for a Spouse of Japanese National Visa, the most fundamental requirement is to already hold that status. Therefore, in order to apply for the visa, the foreign applicant and the Japanese national must be legally married beforehand.

8-5. Marriage Procedures Are Possible Without the Foreign Spouse Coming to Japan

When a Japanese national marries a foreigner, it is not always necessary for the foreign spouse to come to Japan. Under Japanese law, marriage procedures can be carried out even if the foreign spouse does not reside in Japan. In other words, the Japanese national can proceed with the marriage procedures domestically without the foreign spouse entering Japan.

However, these procedures are based solely on Japanese law, and whether the marriage is legally recognized abroad depends on the laws of that country. Therefore, if you intend to have the marriage legally recognized overseas, you must comply with the relevant laws of that country.

8-6. A Spouse Visa Cannot Be Renewed After Divorce

A Spouse Visa cannot be renewed once a divorce has taken place. If the visa is set to expire while divorce proceedings are still ongoing, you should first apply for renewal before continuing with the proceedings.

8-7. Ask for the Reason if the Application Is Denied

If the application is denied, it is important to ask the Immigration Services Agency officer for the reason and prepare for the next application. Based on that reason, you can proceed with reapplication.

9.Summary

In this article, we have explained the key points you should know about the Spouse Visa (Status of Residence: “Spouse or Child of Japanese National”). To summarize, the main points are as follows:

The key points of this article are as follows:

✓There are two types of “Spouse or Child Visa”: the “Spouse or Child of Japanese National Visa” and the “Spouse or Child of Permanent Resident Visa.” These can be obtained by the spouse, child, or special adopted child of a Japanese national or permanent resident. ✓To qualify for a Spouse or Child Visa, applicants must meet certain requirements such as having a valid marital or parent-child relationship and being able to maintain a household as a family.✓ There are two main ways to obtain a Spouse or Child Visa: inviting the foreign spouse or child from overseas to Japan (Application for Certificate of Eligibility) or changing the status of residence of a foreign national already staying in Japan to a Spouse or Child Visa (Application for Change of Status of Residence).✓When a foreign spouse applies for a Spouse or Child Visa, documents proving the relationship (such as a marriage certificate) and the ability to cover living expenses (such as financial proof) are required.✓In addition to the required documents, preparing and submitting a Statement of Reasons is a key point for successfully obtaining approval for a Spouse or Child Visa.

Spouses and children of Japanese nationals or permanent residents, as well as special adopted children, can obtain a Spouse Visa by meeting the prescribed requirements and completing the application process. Since many documents must be submitted and all of them must be issued within the last three months, it is important to prepare carefully and proceed with the application process in a well-planned manner.

If it is difficult to gather the necessary documents or if you feel that handling the procedures on your own is challenging, consulting a professional specializing in visa acquisition and renewal is also an option.

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