IF DIVORCE, WHAT VISAs Can I Get?
Can Foreign Nationals with a Spouse Visa Stay in Japan after Divorce?
Foreign nationals who divorce their Japanese spouse while holding a spouse visa must either leave Japan or change their status of residence to a long-term resident or another appropriate visa type.
Important Steps After Divorce
Within 14 days: Report the divorce to the Immigration Bureau.
Within 6 months: Change your residence status if remaining in Japan.
Failure to report the divorce within 14 days constitutes a violation of the Immigration Control Act, which may negatively impact future visa applications. Furthermore, if a foreign national does not engage in spousal activities for over 6 months without legitimate reasons, their spouse visa may be revoked.
Possible New Residence Status after Divorce
- (Re-marriage) Spouse of Japanese National, Spouse of Permanent Resident, or Dependent
- (Employment) Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services, Highly Skilled Professional,Skilled worker, Instructor
- (Entrepreneurship) Business Manager
- (Others) Long-Term Resident (Divorce Residency/Child Custody)
Securing the appropriate visa is crucial, especially when divorce and custody issues are involved. Our experienced legal team will guide you through the application process and ensure compliance with all immigration requirements.
Author: Masakazu Murai
Masakazu Murai, CFP, Administrative Scrivener, and Financial Consultant with extensive experience in both immigration and financial consulting.
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