[2025 Update] Spouse Visa in Japan｜Complete Guide with Approval Tips & Osaka-Based Legal Support

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【2025年最新版】配偶者ビザの基本と申請の流れ｜必要書類・許可のポイント・行政書士のサポートまで

Introduction

The “Spouse Visa (Spouse or Child of Japanese National)” is an important residency status that allows foreign nationals married to Japanese citizens to legally live and work in Japan.

With the increase in international marriages, the number of applications for this visa has been rising year by year. However, this is not a mere administrative procedure—one of the key elements in the screening process is whether the couple is genuinely living together as husband and wife. This makes the procedure particularly delicate and strict.

This article is designed for individuals preparing to apply for a Spouse Visa or planning to bring their spouse to Japan. It provides a comprehensive and practical explanation of the visa system, application process, required documents, approval criteria, and professional support available through administrative scriveners.

Future articles will delve deeper into topics such as “Cases of Denial,” “How to Write an Explanation Letter,” and “Tips for Reapplication.”

Chapter 1: What is the Spouse Visa? Understanding the Basics

Definition of the “Spouse or Child of Japanese National” Status

The Spouse Visa is officially categorized as “Spouse or Child of Japanese National,” and it applies to the following individuals:

Foreign nationals legally married to a Japanese citizen

Biological or legally adopted (special adoption) children of a Japanese citizen

In general, applications for the Spouse Visa involve the foreign spouse of a Japanese national.

Features and Benefits of the Residency Status

This residency status differs from work visas in the following ways:

Duration of stay: 1 year, 3 years, or 5 years (determined by the Immigration Bureau)

Renewable (subject to screening)

No restrictions on employment (can work in any industry)

Eligible to apply for Permanent Residency after a certain period

It is a highly flexible residency status, especially favorable in terms of employment.

Chapter 2: Understanding the Application Flow

Overall Process from Application to Approval

The application process is divided into the following steps:

STEP: Validating the Marriage

The marriage must be legally recognized in both Japan and the spouse’s home country. International marriages can take various forms, such as registering in Japan first or reporting an overseas marriage.

STEP: Gathering Required Documents

The documents required differ depending on the individual circumstances of the applicant and their spouse. There may also be slight variations depending on the Immigration Bureau.

STEP: Submitting the Application

If the foreign spouse is already in Japan: “Change of Status of Residence Application”

If residing overseas: “Certificate of Eligibility Application”

Applications are usually submitted by the Japanese spouse. In some cases, both spouses appear at the bureau.

STEP: Screening Period

Screening typically takes 1–3 months. Additional documents or written questions may be requested.

STEP: Approval and Issuance of Residence Card

Once approved, a residence card is issued, and the foreign spouse can begin their life in Japan officially.

Chapter 3: Required Documents for the Spouse Visa

Documents Prepared by the Japanese Spouse

Family Register (Koseki Tohon): Proof of marriage. Should be issued within the last 3 months.

Certificate of Residence (Juminhyo): Include all household members. Used to confirm cohabitation.

Taxation and Tax Payment Certificates: Proof of financial stability.

Employment Certificate and Withholding Slip: Shows employment status and income. Freelancers may submit tax returns.

Letter of Guarantee: A signed declaration of financial and lifestyle support (standard format available).

Documents Prepared by the Foreign Spouse

Passport: Valid passport

ID Photo: 4cm x 3cm, plain background

Birth Certificate: Official certificate with Japanese translation

Marriage Certificate (from home country): Required if the marriage was also registered abroad

Communication Records: Chat logs, photos, and relationship history (optional but important)

Notes on Translation

All non-Japanese documents must be accompanied by accurate Japanese translations.

Include the translator’s name, contact information, date of translation, and a statement such as:

“This is a faithful and accurate translation of the original document.”

Chapter 4: Key Screening Points and Risk Factors

Three Major Evaluation Criteria

Actual marital relationship: Proof of cohabitation, travel, and communication history

Stability of life in Japan: Income, housing, future plans

Basis for a stable lifestyle: Financial means, family support, etc.

Common Reasons for Denial

Inconsistencies in submitted documents

Vague reasons for not living together

Implausible relationship timeline or first meeting history

Extremely low or no income

In such cases, an explanation letter or supplemental documents are necessary.

Chapter 5: Support by Administrative Scriveners

Why You Should Consider Professional Help

The Spouse Visa involves numerous documents and requires the ability to clearly convey the authenticity of the relationship to immigration officers. Administrative scriveners can greatly enhance success by organizing and translating documents effectively.

Specific Support Services

Creating a tailored list of required documents and assisting in collection

Translating documents

Drafting explanation letters (relationship background, living plans)

Preparing and submitting applications (for licensed scriveners with representation rights)

Review and preparation for screening (Q&A support)

Our office conducts a detailed interview using a structured worksheet and provides full support from documentation to submission.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q. How long does screening take?A. Normally 1 to 3 months. It may vary depending on the season and complexity.

Q. Can I apply immediately after marriage?A. Yes, but shorter relationships may require stronger supporting documents.

Q. Can I apply if my spouse is overseas?A. Yes. In this case, you apply for a Certificate of Eligibility.

Q. What happens if we get divorced?A. You will lose the basis for your status and must apply for a status change or prepare for departure.

📝 Conclusion

A successful application for a Spouse Visa requires more than just proof of marriage—it must also demonstrate the reality of the relationship, stability of living arrangements, and consistency of documents.

Errors or assumptions in the preparation process can lead to a denied application.

If you are unsure, consulting with an experienced administrative scrivener can improve your chances of success significantly.

▶︎ See our full guide to the Japanese Spouse Visa｜Ishinagi Immigration Legal Office (Osaka)

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▼ Related Articles on Immigration Options in Japan

• Permanent Residency in Japan: Eligibility, Application Process, and Key Differences from Naturalization
• Immigration Support in Osaka Juso Until 11PM｜Visa & Naturalization Consultations by an Expert Gyoseishoshi
• Spouse Visa vs. PR vs. Naturalization – Which Is Right for You?

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