Spouse Visa: Is Long-Distance Marriage, Business Transfer, or Extended Work Trip Still OK? How to Prove a “Non-Breakdown Separation”

Introduction

In spouse visa examinations, the Immigration Bureau places the greatest emphasis on whether the couple is genuinely living as husband and wife.
Therefore, if the couple lives separately, immigration officers may suspect that the marriage has broken down.

However, in reality, many couples are forced to choose business transfers, long-term assignments, or long-distance marriages due to work or family circumstances.
This article explains in detail how to prove that such a situation constitutes a “non-breakdown separation.”

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Separation ≠ Automatic Denial

The first thing to understand is that living separately does not automatically result in denial.
The Immigration Bureau makes a comprehensive judgment by reviewing factors such as:

Key Factors Immigration Examines

Factor	What is Checked
Living Arrangements	Are the couple living together? If not, is there a reasonable reason?
Financial Ties	Is the Japanese spouse providing living expenses or financial support?
Communication	Ongoing exchanges such as calls, messages, or video chats
Future Plan	Is the separation temporary? Is there a concrete plan to live together again?

👉 It is essential to prove that the separation is reasonable and temporary, with supporting documents and explanations.

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Business Transfers or Long-Term Assignments

Business transfers or long-term assignments are considered typical “reasonable reasons” in spouse visa examinations.

Examples of Supporting Documents

• Transfer orders or official assignment letters from the employer
• Company-issued notifications of relocation or long-term business trips
• Rental contracts or housing certificates at the assignment location
• Travel receipts or boarding passes showing regular visits home

👉 Prove that the separation is work-related and backed by official documentation.

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Long-Distance Marriage (Overseas Work or Study)

When the spouse is overseas for work or study, long-term physical separation can occur.

Points for Proof

1. Regular Communication
   • Records of messages, video calls, or emails
   • Social media interactions
2. Financial Ties
   • Overseas remittance statements
   • Records of shared bank accounts
3. Future Cohabitation Plan
   • Documents showing a return schedule
   • Children’s school enrollment or future plans

👉 It is crucial to emphasize that the separation is temporary and that the couple has a clear plan to live together again.

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Practical Examples of a “Non-Breakdown Separation”

Immigration looks closely at the continuity of family life and the authenticity of the marriage.

Effective Supporting Evidence

• Receipts showing the Japanese spouse pays rent or utility bills
• Family photos taken during visits or trips together
• School or event records involving children
• Shared property, bank accounts, or insurance policies

👉 The key is to prove that the couple continues to share a common life base, even while apart.

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Risks of Insufficient Proof

If the reasons or evidence for separation are weak, the following risks may arise:

• Considered “no marital life” → Application denied
• Suspected “marriage of convenience” → Visa cancellation risk
• Large volume of additional documents required at renewal

👉 On the other hand, if evidence is solid, many cases have been approved as stable marriages despite separation.

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Trends at the Osaka Immigration Bureau

At the Osaka Regional Immigration Bureau, cases of business transfers and long-distance marriages are relatively common.
However, the bureau tends to request additional supporting documents such as:

• Company-issued documents proving transfer or assignment
• Financial records of remittances or living expenses between spouses
• A written statement of future cohabitation plans

👉 Compared with other regions, Osaka Immigration places greater weight on objective evidence, so preparing sufficient documents in advance is highly advisable.

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FAQ: Common Questions

Q1. Does separation always mean denial?

No. If there are reasonable circumstances and the continuity of the marriage is proven, many cases are approved.

Q2. What if we cannot live together for several years due to a business transfer?

It is acceptable if you can prove it is due to “work-related unavoidable circumstances.” However, you should clearly state your plan for future cohabitation.

Q3. Can LINE or call records be used as evidence?

Yes. Records of ongoing communication are valid evidence. Submitting them in a way that shows continuity is recommended.

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Conclusion

For many couples, the existence of separation raises anxiety about spouse visa approval.
However, separation does not automatically mean denial. What matters is proving that the separation is reasonable, temporary, and that the marriage has not broken down.

Key Takeaways

• Separation ≠ automatic denial
• Business transfers and long-term assignments: prove “work-related reasons”
• Long-distance marriage: prepare the “three pillars” → communication, remittances, and future plans
• Osaka Immigration tends to place more weight on objective documents
• FAQs clarify common concerns, and supporting evidence helps reduce risks

👉 Even if you are living separately, if you can demonstrate that your marriage remains genuine and ongoing, spouse visa approval and renewal are still very possible. If you are unsure, consult a professional to prepare the proper supporting evidence.

Ishinagi Administrative Scrivener Office

“If you would like to obtain a spouse visa quickly and reliably, or if you feel uncertain about renewal or changing your residence status, please feel free to consult with our office in Yodogawa-ku, Osaka. We provide support for clients from all over Japan, making use of our experience in dealing with the Immigration Bureau.

If you wish to proceed with your spouse visa application smoothly and with confidence, please do not hesitate to contact us.

▶ Click here to see our fee schedule”

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