My spouse visa application was denied because of inconsistencies with previous applications. What should I do?

Understand why the inconsistency occurred and gather evidence to clarify the facts. With proper documentation, a reapplication may still be possible.

Visa Denied Due to Inconsistent Information

One common reason for a spouse visa denial in Japan is a mismatch between your current application and information submitted in previous immigration filings. When immigration officers discover discrepancies, they may suspect that either the past or present statements are false, which can lead to visa rejection.

This situation often arises when an applicant:

• Submitted inaccurate or overly optimistic information in a past visa application
• Used an agent or third party to complete paperwork without reviewing it carefully
• Attempted to make their history appear more favorable, not realizing the long-term risks

If immigration suspects false declarations—especially intentional ones—the case is treated with strict scrutiny and may even result in long-term immigration consequences.

Special Attention for Former Technical Interns and Students

Former technical interns or international students often encounter problems because previous visa applications may have been prepared by sending organizations or language schools. These agents sometimes include incorrect or exaggerated details—either by mistake or on purpose—to meet immigration requirements.

Japan’s immigration authorities are aware of these practices and are particularly cautious with applicants from regions where fraudulent or overstated records have been common.

How to Recover and Reapply

If your spouse visa was denied due to inconsistencies, don’t panic—but act carefully. You will need to:

1. Identify the exact point(s) of inconsistency
2. Clarify the truth with a clear, logical explanation
3. Provide documentary evidence to support your explanation
4. Include an apology and a statement explaining how the error occurred

Because your case will now begin from a disadvantaged position, you must present a carefully prepared application that clearly explains the previous error and your current good faith. This includes official documents, credible third-party records, and a detailed timeline of your immigration history.

Please note: if you previously submitted false information while applying for a different visa status (e.g. student or work visa), immigration authorities may deem your new spouse visa application as lacking in credibility or legal grounds. In some cases, you may be required to leave Japan and apply again from your home country.

Learn about the entire spouse visa process here

About the Author

Masakazu Murai
CFP®, Securities Analyst, Certified Immigration Lawyer (Gyoseishoshi)

Born in 1977, Murai began his career at Mitsubishi UFJ Morgan Stanley Securities, specializing in corporate finance and M&A. He later served on the executive committee of the company’s labor union, supporting foreign and female professionals in the workplace.

Today, he focuses on helping foreign nationals navigate Japan’s visa system—particularly those applying for or renewing Spouse of Japanese National visas. He also offers financial advisory services.

Favorite pastimes: attending idol concerts, long walks, watching movies with Hoppy, and playing with his cats.

For Foreign Nationals:
✓ Want to work in Japan
✓ Plan to launch a business
✓ Getting married to a Japanese citizen
✓ Applying for permanent residency
✓ Interested in acquiring Japanese nationality

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