To marry a Singaporean national. What are the necessary procedures to obtain a Spouse Visa in Japan?

You will need to complete legal marriage procedures in both Singapore and Japan, and then apply for a Spouse of Japanese National Visa through Japan’s Immigration Services Agency.

Marriage Procedures Between a Japanese National and a Singaporean

To apply for the “Spouse or Child of Japanese National” visa, the marriage must be legally recognized in both Japan and Singapore. Note that Singapore has different marriage procedures for Muslims and non-Muslims, governed by distinct laws and authorities. For instance, Muslims may marry at age 18 and practice polygamy, while non-Muslims must be 21 or older and can only be in monogamous marriages.

Where Should You Get Married First—Japan or Singapore?

You may start the marriage procedures in either Japan or Singapore depending on your residency status, convenience, and long-term plans. If the Singaporean partner is already living in Japan, it may be easier to marry in Japan first. If the partner resides in Singapore, it might be more straightforward to start there. After legalizing your marriage in both countries, you can proceed to apply for a Spouse Visa at the Immigration Bureau in Japan.

(1) If You Get Married in Japan First

Follow these two steps:

• Step 1: Obtain a Statutory Declaration from the Embassy of Singapore in Tokyo instead of a Certificate of No Impediment.
• Step 2: Submit a marriage registration at your local city office in Japan.

Singaporean law does not require couples to report marriages conducted abroad, so marrying in Japan alone is legally sufficient for Singapore. If needed, the couple may report the marriage to Singapore’s Registry of Marriages (ROM).

Documents Typically Required at the Embassy

• Certificate of No Marriage Record or divorce certificate (if applicable)
• Passports (both parties)
• Declaration form from the Singapore Embassy
• Other documents as specified by the Embassy

Documents Needed at the City Office in Japan

• Declaration from the Singapore Embassy (with Japanese translation)
• Singaporean birth certificate (with Japanese translation)
• Marriage notification form with signatures from two witnesses
• Passport and residence card (if applicable)
• Japanese spouse’s koseki (family registry) and ID

(2) If You Get Married in Singapore First (Non-Muslims)

Here is the step-by-step process:

• Submit a Marriage Application to Singapore’s Registry of Marriages (ROM)
• Obtain a Marriage License after the required waiting period (minimum 21 days)
• Hold a marriage ceremony (in person or online)
• Obtain a Certificate of Marriage
• Submit a marriage report to the Japanese Embassy or municipal office in Japan

After the marriage is reflected in the Japanese koseki (family registry), you can apply for the Spouse of Japanese National visa.

Required Documents When Reporting Marriage in Japan

• Marriage registration form
• Koseki (Japanese family register)
• Certificate of Marriage from Singapore + Japanese translation
• Passports (both parties)
• Signature or seal of Japanese spouse
• Any other documents as required by the city office or embassy

Processing times may vary by municipality. We recommend confirming the document requirements in advance with your city office.

Case Studies

• Returning to Japan after overseas assignment in Singapore
• Singapore-based couple relocating to Japan together

About the Author

Masakazu Murai
Certified Immigration Lawyer, CFP, Securities Analyst

Mr. Murai has extensive experience in international finance and immigration procedures. He specializes in Spouse Visa applications and international marriage cases.

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