Marrying a Japanese citizen doesn’t automatically guarantee you a spouse visa. While legal marriage is essential, Japan’s immigration system requires that you meet specific criteria under the Immigration Control Act. This guide will walk you through the process of applying for a spouse visa, explain the required documents, and highlight key considerations. Whether you are already residing in Japan or applying from abroad, this guide will cover everything you need to know.
What is a Spouse Visa?
A spouse visa in Japan, formally known as the “Spouse or Child of a Japanese National” visa (日本人の配偶者等), allows the foreign spouse of a Japanese citizen to live and work in Japan. It’s commonly referred to as a Spouse Visa or Marriage Visa.
It offers more flexibility and benefits compared to other residency statuses like the work visa or student visa.
The following table compares the key features of the spouse visa, work visa, and student visa.
| Criteria | Spouse Visa | Work Visa | Student Visa |
|---|---|---|---|
| Work Hour Limitations | No restrictions | 8 hours/day, 40 hours/week | Cannot work (except with special permission, up to 28 hours/week) |
| Job Type Restrictions | No restrictions | Must be related to educational background or work experience | Limited to part-time jobs (e.g., cashier, factory work) |
| Eligibility for Permanent Residency or Naturalization | 3+ years of marriage + 1 year of residence in Japan | 10+ years of residence | 10+ years of residence (5+ years on a work visa) |
As shown, the spouse visa offers significantly more freedom to live and work in Japan compared to other visa types.
Therefore, if you are already in Japan on a different visa and are married to a Japanese national, switching to a spouse visa is highly recommended for greater flexibility.
Whether you are already in Japan or currently residing overseas, you can apply for a spouse visa. However, the application process differs depending on where you are applying from.
Applying from Inside Japan
If you are already living in Japan under a different visa, such as a work or student visa, you’ll need to apply for a Change of Status of Residence (在留資格変更許可申請) to convert your current visa to a spouse visa.
How to Apply from Inside Japan
- Submit the Change of Status Application
The foreign spouse must submit the Change of Status of Residence application to the Immigration Bureau that has jurisdiction over their place of residence in Japan. - Review Process
The review process typically takes 2-4 weeks, though additional documents may be requested during this time. - Receive the Results
The Immigration Bureau will send a Notification Postcard (通知ハガキ) with the results. If the visa is approved, the foreign spouse can collect their new Residence Card (在留カード). - Collect the New Residence Card
After receiving the notification, visit the Immigration Bureau to pick up your new residence card. The following documents are required:- Passport
- Current Residence Card
- Application receipt
- Notification postcard
- ¥4,000 revenue stamp for the processing fee
Documents Required for Spouses Applying from Inside Japan
Having all the required documents ready can streamline your application process.
Documents to Submit
- Application for Change of Status of Residence (在留資格変更許可申請書)
- Questionnaire (質問書)
- Photos: 2-3 recent pictures of you and your spouse
- Communication Records: Proof of communication, such as chat logs, emails, or call logs
Documents from the Foreign Spouse
- Passport Photo: 4cm x 3cm, recent
- Marriage Certificate (結婚証明書): From the foreign spouse’s country
- Passport: Original required
- Residence Card (在留カード): Original required
Documents from the Japanese Spouse
- Family Registry (戸籍謄本): Proof of marriage
- Residence Certificate (住民票): Exclude My Number
- Tax Documents: Proof of income and taxes paid
- Bank Statements/Employment Certificate: To demonstrate financial stability
Applying from Outside Japan
If you are living outside Japan and plan to join your Japanese spouse, you must apply for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) (在留資格認定証明書). This is the necessary first step before applying for a visa.
How to Apply from Outside Japan
- Submit the Spouse Visa Application
The Japanese spouse or a designated representative (such as an immigration lawyer) submits the Certificate of Eligibility application to the regional Immigration Bureau. - Review Process
The Immigration Bureau reviews the application, which can take 1-3 months. Plan ahead to ensure any time-sensitive matters, such as work or school, are not disrupted. - Receive the Results
Upon approval, the Certificate of Eligibility (在留資格認定証明書) is issued. If denied, a Notice of Denial (不交付決定通知書) will be sent. - Mail the Certificate to the Foreign Spouse
The Japanese spouse must mail the Certificate of Eligibility to the foreign spouse, who will use it to apply for a visa. - Visa Application at the Embassy
The foreign spouse applies for the visa at their local Japanese embassy or consulate using the Certificate of Eligibility. - Enter Japan
Once the visa is issued, the foreign spouse has three months to enter Japan. The Residence Card (在留カード) will be issued at specific airports upon arrival.
Documents Required for Spouses Applying from Outside Japan
For a smooth process, ensure you gather all the necessary documents.
Documents to Submit
- Certificate of Eligibility Application Form (在留資格認定証明書交付申請書)
- Questionnaire (質問書)
- Photos: 2-3 recent pictures together, such as wedding or travel photos
- Communication Records: Printouts of chats, emails, or call logs
- Return Envelope (返信用封筒): Include ¥404 for postage
Documents from the Foreign Spouse
- Passport Photo: 4cm x 3cm, recent
- Marriage Certificate (結婚証明書): From the foreign spouse’s country
Documents from the Japanese Spouse
- Family Registry (戸籍謄本): Proof of marriage
- Residence Certificate (住民票): Exclude My Number
- Tax Documents: Proof of income and taxes paid
- Bank Statements/Employment Certificate: To show financial capability
- Guarantee Letter (身元保証書): Available on the Immigration Bureau’s website
Key Considerations for Spouse Visa Applications
The Japanese immigration authorities carefully evaluate spouse visa applications to prevent fraudulent marriages. Here are some crucial factors to consider:
1. Authentic Marriage is Essential
You must provide evidence that the marriage is genuine and not for visa purposes. Photos, emails, and witness statements can help substantiate your relationship.
2. Financial Stability
The foreign spouse must prove financial stability, whether through employment, savings, or assets. The income should be sufficient to support both spouses in Japan.
3. Significant Age Differences
If there’s an age gap of more than 15 years, the Immigration Bureau may scrutinize the relationship further to ensure its authenticity.
4. Past Marriages
If you or your spouse have previously been married to foreign nationals, expect extra scrutiny. The Immigration Bureau will want to ensure the marriage is legitimate.
5. Relationship Background
If you met your spouse through dating websites or agencies, be prepared to provide additional information. Immigration officials may ask for details to verify the relationship’s legitimacy.
Conclusion
Applying for a spouse visa in Japan involves many steps, from gathering documents to ensuring your relationship is genuine. Mistakes or missing documents can delay your application or even lead to rejection. For expert help with the process, consider consulting with an immigration specialist. Tanabe Immigration Office offers professional guidance to make the application process as smooth as possible.
Need assistance? Contact us today for a free consultation!
