I can’t obtain a Japanese Tax Certificate (Kazei Shomeisho) for my Spouse Visa application. What should I do?
I can’t obtain a Japanese Tax Certificate (Kazei Shomeisho) for my Spouse Visa application. What should I do?
Tax certificates are mandatory for a Spouse Visa. Without proper explanation and alternative documentation, your application may be denied.
Why Tax Certificates Are Required for a Spouse Visa
When applying for a Spouse of Japanese National Visa, the Immigration Bureau requires both a Taxation Certificate (Kazei Shomeisho) and a Tax Payment Certificate (Nozei Shomeisho). These are official documents issued by your local city or ward office showing your income and tax payments for the previous year.
These documents are mandatory and used to prove that the couple can financially sustain life in Japan. Without them, immigration cannot verify your financial stability—which is one of the core requirements for visa approval.
When You Can’t Submit Japanese Tax Documents
If you were living overseas, just moved to Japan, or had no income the previous year, you may not be able to obtain these documents. Common situations include:
- You lived overseas and were not a resident of Japan on January 1st
- You just graduated and started your first job in Japan (no previous income)
- You were unemployed or a student and had no taxable income
- You were self-employed but didn’t file taxes properly
- Your income was below the taxable threshold
What to Do: Alternative Documents and Explanation Letter
If you can’t submit a tax certificate, you must provide a written explanation outlining the reason, along with alternative evidence proving your financial stability.
For example:
- Recent payslips and employment contracts
- Bank statements showing sufficient savings
- Proof of support from family members
- Foreign tax documents such as:
If you are self-employed, it’s important that you file your taxes properly and submit the necessary returns. Immigration may consider unfiled taxes as non-compliance with Japanese law, which could result in a denial.
The ultimate goal is to prove that you (or your Japanese spouse) have sufficient income or assets to live in Japan. If you’re unsure what to submit, consulting a certified immigration professional is highly recommended.
Need Help Preparing a Spouse Visa Without a Tax Certificate?
At Continental, we help applicants explain their situation clearly and submit the most appropriate documentation—even in difficult cases like overseas returnees, non-taxpayers, or self-employed applicants.
Our visa specialists can:
- Assess whether your case qualifies for exemption or alternative documentation
- Prepare your explanation letter (riyusho) in Japanese for immigration
- Advise on exactly which foreign tax documents or financial records are acceptable
→ Start with a free consultation
About the Author
Masakazu Murai
Certified Immigration Lawyer, CFP®, Securities Analyst
With a background in investment banking at Mitsubishi UFJ Morgan Stanley Securities and years of experience in immigration consulting, Masakazu Murai helps international couples navigate the Japanese visa system with clarity and confidence.
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