I’m renewing my Spouse of Japanese National visa. What should I watch out for?

Immigration will check the authenticity of your marriage, cohabitation, income level, and legal conduct when determining whether to approve your visa renewal—and for how long.

Renewing the Spouse of Japanese National Visa

The Spouse of Japanese National visa comes with limited periods of stay: 6 months, 1 year, 3 years, or 5 years. You may apply for renewal up to three months before the current expiration date. However, this visa is not automatically renewed. It’s subject to review.

This is particularly important for those aiming to apply for permanent residency through this visa. Immigration generally requires that the applicant already hold a visa valid for three years or more.

When renewing your visa, immigration officers will carefully assess:

• Your household income during the past year
• The authenticity and continuity of your marriage
• Your legal conduct and good moral character
• Any false statements made in previous applications
• Your tax payment and filing history

If you’ve been living separately for any period (due to work travel or otherwise) or have lost your job, be prepared to submit supporting documentation and explanations.

Key Factors for Successful Spouse Visa Renewal

1. Living together as a married couple
   If you live separately, you’ll need to submit a written explanation with valid reasons.
2. All taxes paid in full
   This includes resident tax and other local taxes.
3. Stable income from either spouse
   If neither of you has regular employment, you must demonstrate alternative sources of support. If you work but haven’t filed taxes, you may be considered “unemployed.” See this page for more.
4. No unpaid national health insurance or pension
   Being subject to asset seizure or collection will negatively affect your renewal.
5. Changes in your marital circumstances
   If your situation has changed since your first visa was granted, be transparent and explain it clearly.

Failing to meet the above requirements without reasonable explanation may result in a denial of your visa renewal. Be especially careful to provide documentation and explanations if your personal or financial situation has changed since your last application.

About the Author

Masakazu Murai
Certified Financial Planner (CFP), Securities Analyst, and Certified Administrative Procedures Legal Specialist (Gyoseishoshi)

Born in 1977. Former investment banker at Mitsubishi UFJ Morgan Stanley Securities, advising clients on corporate finance and M&A. While working on the frontlines, he also served on the union board promoting diversity and inclusion, especially for foreign nationals and women in the workplace.

He now specializes in visa and immigration consulting for foreign nationals in Japan, with a particular focus on spouse visas and financial planning.

Favorite hobbies include attending idol concerts, going for walks, watching movies with a cold Hoppy in hand, and playing with his cats.

For Foreign Residents in Japan:
✓ Looking to work in Japan
✓ Want to start a business
✓ Planning to get married
✓ Interested in permanent residency
✓ Want to obtain Japanese citizenship

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