What is the Japanese spouse visa? What it lets you do, and what to watch for

This article is a translation of the Japanese original. Where the two differ, the Japanese version prevails. Read the Japanese original（日本語版を読む）

What is the Japanese spouse visa?

It is a status of residence that lets a foreign national who is the spouse of a Japanese national live in Japan.

With this status of residence, you can not only live in Japan, but also work, and spend time together with your family.

What can I do once I have it?

There is no restriction on working, and you can use social security.

• You can live freely in Japan: within your period of stay, you can stay and live in Japan
• You can work: from part-time work to a full-time position, there is no restriction on the kind of work
• You can use social security: you can use systems such as health insurance and pensions
• You become eligible to apply for permanent residence: if you meet certain conditions, you can apply for permanent residence
• Bringing your family: your children can live with you in Japan as well. However, a child needs a separate status of residence (where the parent holds 在留資格「永住者」 (Permanent Resident) in Japan and the child was born overseas, the child falls under 在留資格「定住者」 (Long-Term Resident))

What is the process for getting it?

If you are bringing someone from overseas, you first have a Certificate of Eligibility issued in Japan, and then apply for a visa in their country.

1. 在留資格認定証明書交付申請 (Application for Certificate of Eligibility)
   This is made in Japan, to the Regional Immigration Services Bureau. You need the application form, a copy of the passport, a photograph, a certified copy of the family register (for the Japanese partner), a marriage certificate, documents proving income, a certificate of residence (住民票), and so on.
2. Screening
   This usually takes about 3 months.
3. Receiving the Certificate of Eligibility
   Send the certificate, once issued, to the person overseas.
4. Applying for a visa at the Japanese embassy or consulate there
   The application is made with the certificate in hand.
5. Entering Japan

A detailed list of the documents you need, and what the screening looks at, are explained in What documents do I need for a Japanese spouse visa, and what should I watch for?

Is there anything to watch out for?

3 things: the conditions for applying, the screening period, and how sham marriages are treated.

• Conditions for applying: the marriage must be a real one, and you must have sufficient income, among other things
• Screening period: it takes time, so you need to apply with time to spare
• Sham marriage: this is prohibited by law. If it comes to light, severe penalties are imposed

Many of the documents you submit for screening need explaining, and depending on your circumstances you may also have to prove how things came about. Please consult us from the preparation stage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Articles

• What documents do I need for a Japanese spouse visa, and what should I watch out for?
• My spouse visa was denied. What should I show when I apply again?
• Can we get a spouse visa while the Japanese spouse is posted overseas?
• What do I have to prove for a spouse visa after an international remarriage?

This article provides general information. Immigration rules change, and outcomes depend on individual circumstances. Please check the Immigration Services Agency website or consult a qualified specialist.
This page is a translation of the Japanese original. Where the two differ, the Japanese version prevails.