The Japanese Spouse Visa allows foreign nationals married to Japanese citizens or permanent residents to reside and work in Japan. This visa type is issued to legal spouses of Japanese citizens, and holders are granted the right to work and reside in Japan indefinitely, with the possibility of renewing the visa or eventually applying for permanent residency.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for a Japanese Spouse Visa, applicants and their Japanese spouse must meet specific eligibility requirements:
- The applicant must be legally married to a Japanese citizen or permanent resident.
- The marriage must be legally recognized in both Japan and the applicant’s home country.
- The couple must demonstrate a genuine, ongoing relationship.
- The Japanese spouse must have sufficient income or assets to support the applicant financially.
- Both the applicant and the Japanese spouse must meet character and health requirements.
Required Documents
The following documents are generally required when applying for a Japanese Spouse Visa. It is important to ensure all documents are accurate and complete to avoid delays in processing:
- Marriage Certificate: Proof of a legal marriage between the applicant and Japanese spouse.
- Family Registration (Koseki Tohon): A family register copy, which includes the marriage details of the Japanese spouse.
- Passport: Valid passport of the applicant.
- Residence Card (if applicable): If the applicant is already residing in Japan, a valid residence card is required.
- Photographs: Passport-sized photos of both the applicant and Japanese spouse.
- Income Proof: Documents showing the Japanese spouse’s ability to financially support the applicant (e.g., tax returns, salary slips).
- Statement of Relationship: A written statement detailing the history and nature of the couple’s relationship.
- Application Forms: Completed visa application forms as provided by the Japanese Immigration Bureau.
Application Process
The process to apply for a Japanese Spouse Visa involves several steps, including submission of documents, processing by the Immigration Bureau, and eventual issuance of the visa. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Prepare All Required Documents: Gather and prepare all required documents as outlined by the Japanese Immigration Bureau.
- Submit the Application: Submit the application and all supporting documents to the Japanese Immigration Bureau or Japanese Embassy/Consulate (if applying from abroad).
- Attend Interview (if required): In some cases, the applicant or Japanese spouse may be called in for an interview to assess the authenticity of the relationship.
- Receive Certificate of Eligibility (COE): If applying from outside Japan, the applicant may need to apply for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) before the visa can be issued.
- Obtain the Spouse Visa: Once approved, the applicant will receive the spouse visa, allowing them to enter and reside in Japan.
- Apply for Residence Card: Upon entry, the applicant must register and obtain a residence card at their local city office within 14 days.
Fees and Payment
The fees for a Japanese Spouse Visa vary depending on the applicant’s country of origin and the location where the application is submitted. Typical fees include:
- Application Fee: Around 4,000 to 6,000 JPY, though this may vary by embassy or consulate.
- Certificate of Eligibility (COE) Application Fee: This varies based on location and specific case circumstances.
- Additional Fees: If translations or certifications are required, additional costs may be incurred.
Processing Time
The processing time for a Japanese Spouse Visa depends on factors such as the applicant’s country of residence and the specific details of the case. Generally:
- Inside Japan (With COE): 1-3 months for processing and issuance.
- Outside Japan (Without COE): 3-5 months, including COE issuance.
Applicants are advised to apply as early as possible to accommodate for any potential delays.
Key Points to Remember
- Ensure that all documents are translated into Japanese, if required.
- Gather and organize all documentation to demonstrate a genuine relationship.
- The Japanese spouse’s income must meet the financial support requirements.
- Apply for a residence card within 14 days of arriving in Japan.
- Keep copies of all submitted documents for reference and verification.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I work in Japan with a Spouse Visa?
- Yes, the Japanese Spouse Visa allows the holder to work full-time in Japan without any restrictions on occupation or hours.
- How long is the Spouse Visa valid for?
- The initial validity period is typically 1-3 years, after which it can be renewed.
- Is an interview required for the Japanese Spouse Visa?
- In some cases, either the applicant or Japanese spouse may be called for an interview if additional verification is needed.
- Can I apply for permanent residency with a Spouse Visa?
- Yes, holders of a Spouse Visa may apply for permanent residency after meeting certain requirements, typically after three years of continuous residence in Japan.
- What if my spouse and I get divorced?
- If you divorce, your Spouse Visa status may be affected. You should notify the immigration authorities and may need to apply for a different visa to remain in Japan.
Official Website
For the latest information and updates, please refer to the official Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan website.