Spouse Visa In Japan: All You Need To Know

Spouse Visa In Japan

Envisioning a life with your spouse amidst the serene beauty of Japan? The journey begins with obtaining a Japanese spouse visa. Worry Not! We’ve got you covered!

Like navigating the tranquil yet intricate gardens of Kyoto, the process can seem complex, but our guide is your pathway to clarity. Let’s embark on this journey together, making your dream of a shared life in Japan a harmonious reality.

Let’s dive in!

What Are The Eligibility Criteria For The Japanese Spouse Visa?

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The eligibility criteria for a spouse visa in Japan generally include the following:

  • The applicant must be legally married to a Japanese or foreign national with permanent residency in Japan.
  • The marriage must be recognized under Japanese law. Getting married in Japan involves registering a marriage at a Japanese municipal government office. 
  • The Japanese or foreign spouse residing in Japan should demonstrate financial stability to support the family.
  • The couple must have accommodation in Japan.
  • Both of the spouses are required to have a clean criminal record.
  • The Japanese spouse should have a stable income to meet the financial requirements for supporting the family.

Even if you are from one of the visa-exemption countries specified by Japan. For long-term or permanent stays, you must apply for a visa. In this case, that will be the spouse visa.

What Documents Required For A Japanese Spouse Visa Application?

When you apply for a Japanese Spouse Visa, you and your sponsor have to submit the required documents to the Immigration Services in Japan and then to the Embassy:

  • The Certificate of Eligibility
  • Japan Spouse Visa Application Form, completed and signed. You can download a copy of the application form from the Japan Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
  • Your valid passport, alongside photocopies of it
  • Passport-size pictures with dimensions of 4cm x 3cm. Other requirements of this picture are mentioned by the embassy on their website.
  • A Letter of Guarantee or Sponsorship from your sponsor
  • Proof of family relationship between you and your sponsor (Marriage or Birth Certificate)
  • Proof of your sponsor’s profession in Japan
  • Proof of your sponsor’s annual income and tax payments
  • If your sponsor is a foreign national, copies of your sponsor’s passport showing his/her relevant visa and Registration Certificate
  • If your sponsor is a Japanese national, copies of your sponsor’s passport and Residence Card

All documents you submit must be in Japanese or include a Japanese language translation.

Furthermore, there is a chance that the immigration authorities request other documents. These documents may include your birth certificate, etc.

What Is The Application Process?

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Japan typically doesn’t distinguish between EU/EEA and non-EU/EEA citizens regarding the eligibility criteria for a spouse visa.

If you are a temporary visitor, you must return and apply from your home country. 

The typical steps for applying for a spouse visa for Japanese nationals in Japan are as follows:

  • Preparing all documents
  • Applying for the Certificate of Eligibility
  • Receiving the Certificate of Eligibility once the same is approved
  • Submitting the spouse visa application form with COE and other required documents
  • Collect the visa.

After you enter Japan with a Spouse Visa, you will receive a Landing Permit at the port of entry. 

If you have a single-entry visa, it will become invalid once you get the Landing Permit. If you have a multiple-entry visa with longer validity, it will remain valid even after you get the Landing Permit.

On top of this, you must get a Residence Card and a Re-Entry Permit. You can get the Residence Card at one of the local municipal offices in Japan.

Within 14 days of residence in Japan, you must report your stay at one of the local municipal offices. Your address will be printed on the Residence Card.

To be allowed to leave and re-enter Japan for the duration of your visa, apply for a Japan Re-Entry Permit at your local Japanese Immigration Office. 

However, if your stay outside Japan is less than one year, you need a Special Re-Entry Permit instead.

Depending on your specific case, you can receive a Japanese Spouse Visa with a duration starting from six months to up to three years.

If you have been married for a short time (less than 1 year), you will likely get a one-year Spouse Visa.

What Is The Fee, Processing Time And Duration Of Stay For A Japan Spouse Visa?

For a single-entry visa, the fee is 3,000 Yen, the Double-entry or multiple-entry visa fee is 6,000 Yen, and the Transit Visa fee is 700 Yen.

The processing time for a Japanese Spouse Visa at the Embassy or Consulate is about 5-10 working days.

Typically, the initial period allowed for staying in Japan on a Spouse Visa is one year. 

The renewal process usually involves providing updated documents, demonstrating continued financial stability, and maintaining marital status.

Can You Legally Work When You Have The Spouse Visa?

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Spouses holding a spouse visa in Japan are typically allowed to work. 

However, there are certain restrictions:

  • The spouse needs permission to engage in activities other than those initially permitted by the residence status.
  • While spouses on a spouse visa are generally allowed to work, there may be restrictions on the type of work and the number of hours they can engage in part-time work. 
  • It may be necessary to notify the immigration authorities or city/ward office about the intent to work. 

Conclusion

As our guide draws to a close, your path to a life with your spouse in Japan is now clear and accessible. With this newfound knowledge, you’re ready to embark on a journey filled with the harmony, respect, and beauty that epitomizes Japanese culture.

Your new life in Japan, rich with tradition and modernity, awaits you.

Tokyo Together!

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