If you’re preparing to apply for a spouse visa in Japan, having the correct documentation is crucial for a smooth process. Below is an essential checklist of the documents required for both applicants residing in Japan and those applying from outside. By following this guide and ensuring every detail is covered, you can avoid delays and improve your chances of a successful application. Whether you’re already in Japan or planning to move here, this checklist will help you stay organized and prepared. Let’s make the application process as seamless as possible!
Applying from Inside Japan: Checklist
Documents to Submit:
- Application for Change of Status of Residence (在留資格変更許可申請書)
- Return Postcard (返信用ハガキ)
- Questionnaire (質問書)
Documents Related to the Foreign Spouse:
- Marriage Certificate (本国で発行された結婚証明書)
- Original Passport (パスポート原本)
- Resume (履歴書)
- Graduation Certificate or Certificate of Enrollment (卒業証明書または在学証明書)
- Proof of Japanese Language Ability (if available)
日本語能力を証明する書類（日本語能力試験の合格証明書など） - Resident Record (listing all household members) (住民票 – 世帯全員記載)
- Proof of Tax Payment (住民税の納税証明書)
- Withholding Tax Statement (源泉徴収票)
Documents Related to the Japanese Spouse:
- Family Registry (showing the marriage) (戸籍謄本 – 婚姻の記載があるもの)
- Tax Payment Certificate for the last two years (住民税の納税証明書)
Includes total income, tax amount, and payment (直近2年分) - Employment Certificate (在職証明書)
- Copies of Payslips (給与明細書のコピー)
- Company Brochure or Printed Website (勤務先の会社案内)
- Guarantee Letter (身元保証書 – 身元保証人に記入してもらう)
- Resident Record (for all household members) (世帯全員記載の住民票)
- Copy of Passport (パスポートのコピー)
Documents Proving Relationship and Marriage:
- 3 or more candid photos
結婚式、双方の親族との食事会、2人で撮った写真など
Documents Related to Living Arrangements and Financial Support:
- Photos of the New Residence
外観、玄関、台所、リビング、寝室 - Copy of the Real Estate Lease Agreement (賃貸契約書のコピー)
If owning the property, provide a property registration certificate (登記事項証明書) - Copy of Sponsor’s Bank Book (預金通帳のコピー)
- Explanation of Financial Support (生計説明書)
Applying from Outside Japan: Checklist
Documents to Submit:
- Application for Certificate of Eligibility (在留資格認定証明書交付申請書)
- Return Envelope with ¥392 stamp (返信用封筒に392円切手を貼付)
- Questionnaire (質問書)
Documents Related to the Foreign Spouse:
- Passport Photo (4cm x 3cm) (証明写真 1枚)
- Marriage Certificate (本国で発行された結婚証明書)
- Copy of Passport (パスポートのコピー)
- Resume (履歴書)
- Graduation Certificate or Certificate of Enrollment (卒業証明書または在学証明書)
- Proof of Japanese Language Ability (if available)
日本語能力を証明する書類（日本語能力試験の合格証明書など）
Documents Related to the Japanese Spouse:
- Family Registry (showing the marriage) (戸籍謄本)
- Tax Payment Certificate for the last two years (住民税の納税証明書)
- Employment Certificate (在職証明書)
- Copies of Payslips (給与明細書のコピー)
- Company Brochure or Printed Website (会社案内またはHPの印刷)
- Guarantee Letter (身元保証書)
- Resident Record (listing all household members) (住民票)
- Copy of Passport (パスポートのコピー)
Documents Proving Relationship and Marriage:
- 3 or more candid photos
結婚式、食事会、2人で撮った写真など - Call Logs and Email Correspondence (10+ messages)
国際電話の通話記録、メール履歴
Documents Related to Living Arrangements and Financial Support:
- Photos of the New Residence
外観、玄関、台所、リビング、寝室 - Copy of the Real Estate Lease Agreement (賃貸契約書)
- Copy of Sponsor’s Bank Book (預金通帳のコピー)
- Explanation of Financial Support (生計説明書)
Ready to Begin Your Application? Let Us Help You Through the Process
The process of applying for a spouse visa in Japan may seem overwhelming, but with the right preparation and professional support, you can avoid unnecessary delays and ensure success. By following the steps in this guide, you’ll be on your way to a seamless application experience.
If you’re unsure about any step or need help gathering the required documents, our expert team is here to assist. Don’t risk delays or rejection—reach out today for personalized guidance tailored to your unique situation. Contact us now to book your free consultation and start your application with confidence.
