Spouse Visa
Spouse Visa
If you're married to a Japanese citizen and wish to live with them in Japan, you'll need a Japan Spouse Visa. Officially, this visa is for spouses and dependents of Japanese citizens or residents (including foreign nationals working or studying in Japan).
The Japan Spouse Visa is a type of temporary or long-term residence visa. To obtain it, you must first secure a Certificate of Eligibility from the Immigration Services in Japan.
Who Needs a Japan Spouse Visa?
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You are a foreigner married to a Japanese citizen (or a dependent child of one) and wish to live in Japan.
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You are the spouse or dependent child of a foreigner residing in Japan (on a Work Visa, Student Visa, or other status) and plan to join them long-term.
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You intend to stay long-term, not just visit, as a Japan Tourist Visa would suffice for short visits.
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While citizens of some countries are exempt from needing a visa for short-term visits, long-term stays, such as those on a Spouse Visa, require applying for the appropriate visa before travel.
Required Documents for a Japan Spouse Visa Application
When applying for a Japanese Spouse Visa, you and your sponsor (your family member) must submit several documents first to the Immigration Services in Japan and then to the Embassy/Consulate. These include:
The Certificate of Eligibility
What is a Certificate of Eligibility?
Your valid passport and photocopies
Your valid passport and photocopies
Passport-size photos meeting specific requirements
A Letter of Guarantee or Sponsorship from your sponsor
Proof of family relationship (e.g., Marriage or Birth Certificate)
Proof of your sponsor’s profession and income in Japan
Copies of your sponsor’s passport and relevant visa or Residence Card, depending on their nationality
How to Apply for a Japan Spouse Visa
The application process involves 2 steps:
1. Obtaining the Certificate of Eligibility: Your spouse in Japan will handle this process on your behalf, submitting the necessary documents to the Immigration Services. The Certificate of Eligibility supports the visa application but does not replace the visa itself.
2. Submitting the Japan Spouse Visa Application: After receiving the Certificate of Eligibility, your spouse will send it to you. You can then apply for the Spouse Visa at a Japanese Consulate or Embassy in your country. This may involve an interview or additional document submission.
Processing Time
The Japan Spouse Visa application process takes about 5-10 working days at the Embassy or Consulate. However, obtaining the Certificate of Eligibility can take 1-3 months.
After Entering Japan
Upon entry with a Spouse Visa, you'll receive a Landing Permission, which replaces your visa and allows you to stay legally in Japan. Additionally, you must obtain a Residence Card and, if necessary, a Re-Entry Permit.
Visa Guide
Fees
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Single-entry: 3,000 Yen
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Double/multiple-entry: 6,000 Yen
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Transit Visa: 700 Yen The fees vary depending on the country and purpose of visit.
Extending the Visa
To extend your stay, submit an Extension of Period of Stay application to the local Immigration Office, along with your passport, Residence Card, financial proof, and other required documents.
Visa Duration
The Japan Spouse Visa can last from six months to three years. If you've been married for less than a year, you’ll likely receive a one-year visa. You can apply for an extension before your visa expires.
Working with a Japan Spouse Visa
You can work in Japan with a Spouse Visa if you're married to a Japanese citizen or Permanent Resident. If you're the spouse or dependent of a foreigner living in Japan, you'll need to obtain a Work Visa or permission to work from the Immigration Services.