If you’re a foreigner working or studying in Japan and wish to bring your family members to live with you, the Dependent / Family Stay Visa is a common route to pursue. This visa allows your spouse and children to reside in Japan, but certain restrictions apply, such as limitations on employment.
In this article, we’ll explore the key aspects of the Dependent / Family Stay Visa, including eligibility requirements, application processes, and key documents. We’ll also briefly touch on the permission required for part-time work under this visa, known as the “Permission to Engage in Activity Other than that Permitted by the Status of Residence Previously Granted” (資格外活動許可).
Who is Eligible for a Dependent / Family Stay Visa?
A Dependent / Family Stay Visa is available to the legal spouse and children of individuals residing in Japan on an eligible visa. However, there are some important criteria to keep in mind:
- Legal Spouse
The spouse must be legally married to the visa sponsor according to the laws of their home country. Unfortunately, same-sex marriage is not legally recognized in Japan, and therefore same-sex partners are not eligible for a Dependent Visa at this time. - Children
Biological or legally adopted children can be sponsored under the Dependent Visa. The dependent must be financially supported by the visa holder, and the relationship must be verifiable through official documentation like a birth certificate or adoption papers. - Fiancé or Unmarried Partner
Fiancés or unmarried partners are not eligible to apply for a Dependent Visa. The visa holder must be legally married to the person they wish to sponsor.
Who Can Sponsor?
Only individuals who hold the following statuses of residence can sponsor their family members for a Dependent / Family Stay Visa:
- Work Visa Holders (e.g., Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International Services)
If you are residing in Japan on a valid work visa, you can sponsor your spouse and dependent children. - Student Visa Holders
International students studying in Japan on a Student Visa are also eligible to sponsor their dependents. - Highly Skilled Professional Visa Holders
Those on a Highly Skilled Professional Visa (高度専門職) can sponsor family members, including spouses and children.
Note:
Visa holders with temporary or short-term residency statuses, such as those on a Tourist Visa or Short-Term Stay Visa, are not eligible to sponsor dependents. Additionally, visa types like the Technical Intern Trainee Visa (技能実習) and Designated Activities Visa (特定活動) generally do not qualify for family sponsorship under the Dependent Visa category.
Key Considerations
Work Permit
Family members on a Dependent / Family Stay Visa cannot work without obtaining a Work Permit. For more information on how to apply for this permit, see also : Can Dependent Visa Holders Work in Japan?
Working Within the Limits of Dependency
Dependents can only work part-time within certain limits that ensure they remain under the sponsor’s financial care. Detailed rules about working while holding a Dependent Visa can be found here.
Changes in Sponsor’s Visa Status
If the sponsor’s visa status changes, such as job changes, or obtaining permanent residency, the dependent may also need to update their visa. Always check with immigration when the sponsor’s visa changes to ensure the dependent visa holder is in compliance.
How to Apply for a Dependent / Family Stay Visa
The process for applying for a Dependent / Family Stay Visa can vary depending on your situation. We’ve divided the scenarios into three common cases, each with its own steps and requirements:
Bringing Family Members from Abroad:
This involves applying for a COE and Dependent Visa before your family enters Japan. This is the most common route for families living overseas.
See also : Dependent Visa: Calling Family Members from Abroad
If a Child is Born in Japan:
If you have a child in Japan, you will need to apply for their Dependent Visa soon after the birth, typically within 30 days. The process will involve submitting documentation such as the birth certificate and proof of residence.
See also : Adding a Newborn Family Member to a Dependent Visa in Japan
Applying for a Dependent Visa Alongside Your Work Visa in Japan
When you are applying for a work visa and want to bring your family with you at the same time, the process can be streamlined if all the documentation is in order.
See also : Applying for a Dependent Visa alongside your work visa.
Need Assistance with Your Dependent Visa?
If you’re preparing to sponsor a family member or need further assistance with visa-related matters, don’t hesitate to reach out to our expert team at Tanabe Immigration Office. We specialize in simplifying the visa process, ensuring that you and your family can settle in Japan with confidence.
Contact us today for a consultation, and let us guide you through the necessary steps for a smooth and successful application.
