SPOUSE OF JAPANESE NATIONAL VISA（日本人の配偶者等）
To marry a Japanese national and live together in Japan. How can we apply for a Spouse Visa (Marriage Visa)? I am a U.S.citizen.
To legally live in Japan with your Japanese spouse, you must obtain a “Spouse or Child of Japanese National” visa (日本人の配偶者等). The immigration screening process is thorough and requires careful attention to detail.
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Overview of the International Marriage & Spouse Visa Process
If you(a foreigner) marries a Japanese citizen and wishes to reside in Japan, you must complete two key steps:
- Register the marriage legally in both countries (Japan and the foreign national’s home country).
- Apply for and be granted the residency status of Spouse or Child of Japanese National(日本人の配偶者等) by the Japan Immigration Bureau.
Commonly referred to as the “Spouse Visa,” “Marriage Visa,” or “Partner Visa,” this status legally permits a foreign spouse to live and work in Japan. Note that this is distinct from a tourist visa.
If a Japanese national is trying to bring her/his foreign spouse to Japan, the spouse must either apply for this spouse visa or another appropriate VISA such as a work visa.
Unlike the U.S. or other countries, Japan does not have a fiancé(e) visa system. Therefore, individuals who wish to enter Japan before marriage will need to consider a short-term visitor visa, or explore other residence statuses if they plan to marry later.
Once the Spouse of Japanese National visa is granted, there are virtually no restrictions on employment. The visa holder can work in any field or even start a business in Japan.
As long as the marital relationship remains valid and financial stability can be demonstrated, the visa may be renewed periodically.
Additionally, after residing in Japan with this visa for at least three years, it may be possible to apply for permanent residency, provided that other eligibility criteria are met.
It’s important to understand that this process involves two distinct tracks: (1) legal marriage procedures, and (2) the visa (residency) application. The order and requirements vary depending on the country of the foreign spouse, so be sure to consult both the consulate of the spouse’s home country and your local municipal office in Japan.
Legal Requirements to Qualify as a Spouse
To be granted a “Spouse of Japanese National” visa, applicants must satisfy all of the following:
- Marriage Legally Recognized in Both Countries: The marriage must be lawfully registered in both Japan and the applicant’s home country.
- Genuine Marital Relationship: The relationship must not be a sham. Immigration officers assess the length of the relationship, communication records, shared life plans, cohabitation, language ability, and more.
- Financial Viability: The couple must demonstrate a stable income or sufficient savings to maintain their livelihood in Japan. The official income and tax certificated(住民税の課税証明書・納税証明書) will be confirmed.
Even legally married couples may face denials if the relationship lacks depth or appears fabricated. Particular scrutiny is applied in cases involving:
- Large age differences (typically over 15 years)
- Brief dating periods
- Couples who met on dating apps
- Long-term separation or living apart
Common Application Risks and Red Flags
Immigration authorities closely examine past visa applications and residency history. Applicants with the following backgrounds may be at higher risk of denial:
- Former technical interns or students(not from OECD countries) in Japan
- Relationships initiated during prior overstays or violations
- Meetings in nightlife venues or adult entertainment establishments
- History of criminal convictions, even for minor infractions like traffic fines
Additionally, inconsistencies between current and past applications—such as differing personal histories or relationship timelines—can result in a denial based on suspicion of misrepresentation.
If the marriage later breaks down, the Spouse of Japanese National visa may be refused renewal or even revoked by immigration authorities.
Required Documents for the Spouse Visa Application
The required documents vary based on whether the applicant is inside Japan (changing status) or applying from abroad (via COE), but the following are typical:
Common Documents
- Completed visa application form (Change of Status or COE)
- Statement of reason for application
- Marriage questionnaire
- Letter of guarantee from the Japanese spouse
- Reply envelope with appropriate postage
Documents for the Foreign Spouse
- Recent ID photo (4cm x 3cm, taken within 3 months)
- Passport and Residence Card (if already in Japan)
- Marriage certificate from the home country, with Japanese translation
- Academic records (transcript, diploma, or enrollment certificate)
- Proof of Japanese language proficiency (if available)
- Tax payment and withholding statements (if working in Japan)
Documents for the Japanese Spouse
- Family registry (Koseki Tohon)
- Tax certificates (for the past 2 years)
- Employment certificate and salary slips (last 3 months)
- Company brochure or printout of website (if applicable)
- Full household resident registry
Supporting Documents to Prove the Relationship
- Photos of the couple (e.g. wedding, outings, with family)
- Chat logs, email records, phone call logs
- Bank transfers or remittance records
Documents Related to Housing and Finances
- Photos of the residence (interior and exterior)
- Lease agreement or property deed
- Bank account statements to prove financial stability
Optional/Case-by-Case Documents
- Plea letters from parents, friends, or employer
- Statements from Japanese relatives
Additional documents may be requested by immigration officers. For more, refer to our supplemental documentation guide.
Individual Case Review and Free Consultations
Every international marriage case is different. The nationality of the spouse, the circumstances surrounding the relationship, income levels, and prior immigration history can all influence how immigration authorities assess your application.
At Continental Immigration, our licensed specialists offer personalized consultations to help you prepare a strong application tailored to your situation. Whether it’s a significant age difference, prior visa denial, unstable income, or a spouse currently living overseas—we have extensive experience addressing complex and sensitive cases.
Our initial consultation—either in person or online—is typically free. During the session, we will help you identify legal risks, recommend key supporting documents, and explain the likelihood of success under current immigration policies.
Book your consultation here or use the inquiry form below.
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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