A Comprehensive Guide to Spouse Visas in Japan

Japan is renowned for its rich culture, efficient systems, and opportunities for long-term residence. For foreign spouses of Japanese citizens, the "Spouse or Child of Japanese National" visa (日本人の配偶者等) offers a pathway to live, work, and build a life in Japan. This guide provides an in-depth look at the spouse visa, covering eligibility, application procedures, rights, and long-term prospects.

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What Is a Spouse Visa in Japan?

The spouse visa is designed for foreign spouses of Japanese citizens, as well as their children or special adoptees. It grants the holder legal residency in Japan, along with significant freedoms, including unrestricted employment rights. Unlike other visa types, it focuses on family unity and does not tie the holder to a specific employer or sponsor.

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Eligibility Criteria

To apply for a spouse visa in Japan, applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Legal Marriage

   • The marriage must be legally recognized under both Japanese law and the laws of the foreign spouse’s home country. A marriage certificate and supporting documentation are required.

2. Genuine Marital Relationship

   • Immigration authorities carefully assess the relationship to prevent fraudulent applications. Proof of communication, photographs, and evidence of cohabitation may be requested.

3. Financial Stability

   • The couple must demonstrate the ability to support their life in Japan. This may involve submitting proof of income, savings, or a stable financial plan.

4. Good Conduct

   • Applicants must show good character and a clean legal record.

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Application Process

Step 1: Obtain a Certificate of Eligibility (COE)

The Japanese spouse typically applies for the COE on behalf of the foreign spouse at their local immigration office. The COE confirms the applicant's eligibility for a spouse visa.

Required Documents for COE

• Marriage certificate.
• Japanese spouse's koseki tohon (family registry).
• Proof of financial stability (e.g., tax statements, pay slips, or bank statements).
• Evidence of a genuine relationship (photos, correspondence, or affidavits from family/friends).

Step 2: Visa Application

Once the COE is issued, the foreign spouse applies for a visa at the nearest Japanese embassy or consulate in their home country. This stage involves presenting the COE, passport, and additional documentation as requested.

Step 3: Entry and Residence in Japan

Upon arriving in Japan, the foreign spouse receives a residence card (在留カード, zairyū kādo) at their port of entry, officially granting them legal residency.

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Duration and Renewal

Spouse visas are granted for durations of 6 months, 1 year, 3 years, or 5 years. The initial visa is typically valid for one year, with longer durations possible upon renewal. Key factors influencing renewal success include:

• The stability of the marriage.
• Compliance with Japanese laws and regulations.
• Continued financial stability.

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Rights and Privileges

Spouse visa holders enjoy significant freedoms in Japan, making it one of the most flexible visa categories:

1. Unrestricted Employment
   Holders can work in any field, whether full-time, part-time, or freelance, without the need for a separate work permit.

2. Access to Social Services
   Spouse visa holders are eligible for Japan’s national health insurance, pension schemes, and other social benefits.

3. Pathway to Permanent Residency
   After residing continuously in Japan for a specified period (typically three years on a spouse visa), holders may apply for permanent residency.

4. Freedom to Change Jobs
   Unlike other work visas, the spouse visa is not tied to a specific employer or industry, allowing for career flexibility.

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Considerations for Spouse Visa Holders

While the spouse visa offers substantial benefits, there are important considerations to bear in mind:

1. Marriage Validity
   Divorce or the death of the Japanese spouse can lead to the termination of the visa. In such cases, the foreign spouse may need to apply for a change in residence status or leave Japan.

2. Application Scrutiny
   Immigration authorities thoroughly review all applications to prevent fraud. A lack of sufficient documentation or inconsistencies in the application may result in delays or denial.

3. Exclusion of Non-Legal Partnerships
   Same-sex marriages, common-law relationships, and other partnerships not legally recognized under Japanese law are not eligible for this visa. However, some municipalities in Japan now offer partnership certificates, which may provide limited local recognition.

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Case Study: Navigating the Application Process

Emma and Hiroshi's Journey
Emma, a UK citizen, married Hiroshi, a Japanese national, in 2023. After their wedding in the UK, Hiroshi returned to Japan and applied for a COE on Emma’s behalf. They prepared the following:

• Marriage Certificate: Officially translated into Japanese.
• Proof of Relationship: Photos of their wedding, text messages, and affidavits from friends.
• Financial Documentation: Hiroshi’s tax return and pay slips to demonstrate financial stability.

The COE was issued within two months, and Emma successfully applied for her spouse visa at the Japanese embassy in London. Upon arrival in Japan, Emma received her residence card, allowing her to start working as an English teacher.

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Key Trends and Future Developments

1. Digital Transformation
   Japan is gradually digitizing immigration processes, including online applications for COEs in certain regions. This is expected to streamline procedures in the future.

2. Support for International Families
   With a rising number of international marriages, local governments are providing multilingual support services, counseling, and resources for foreign spouses to help them integrate into Japanese society.

3. Increased Focus on Fraud Prevention
   Immigration authorities are intensifying scrutiny of applications, emphasizing the importance of transparent and thorough documentation.

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Conclusion

The spouse visa offers foreign spouses of Japanese nationals a unique opportunity to live and work in Japan with significant freedoms. While the application process requires meticulous preparation, the benefits—ranging from unrestricted employment rights to access to social services—make it a valuable pathway for those building a life in Japan.

For foreign spouses planning to settle in Japan, understanding the requirements and preparing a comprehensive application can make the process smoother. While E-Housing does not provide visa support services, once you have your visa in hand, we’re here to help you find the perfect home. From choosing the ideal neighborhood to securing a house that fits your needs, we’ll support your journey to establishing a comfortable life in Japan. Contact us today to get started!