Spouse Visa (Spouse or Child of Japanese National)

What Is the "Spouse or Child of Japanese National" Status of Residence?

The "Spouse or Child of Japanese National" is a status of residence granted to the spouse of a Japanese national, a specially adopted child, or a child born to a Japanese national. With this status, you can live in Japan without any restrictions on employment.

If you are married to a Japanese national and wish to live together in Japan, you need to obtain this status of residence. If you are already in Japan with a different status, you apply for a "Change of Status of Residence." If your spouse is overseas, you apply for a "Certificate of Eligibility."

The period of stay granted is 6 months, 1 year, 3 years, or 5 years. For first-time applications, a 1-year period is typically granted.

Required Documents

The main documents required for a Change of Status of Residence application are listed below. Additional documents may be required depending on individual circumstances.

• Application for Change of Status of Residence
• Photograph (4cm x 3cm)
• Family register (koseki tohon) of the Japanese spouse (showing the marriage)
• Marriage certificate issued by the applicant's home country
• Tax certificate and tax payment certificate of the Japanese spouse
• Guarantee letter from the Japanese spouse
• Residence certificate (juminhyo) of the entire household of the Japanese spouse
• Questionnaire (prescribed form from the Immigration Services Agency)
• Evidence of communication between the couple (photos, call records, etc.)
• Passport and residence card (for presentation)

The above is a general list of required documents. Additional documents may be needed depending on the applicant's situation. Please check the Immigration Services Agency website for the latest information.

Application Process

The general flow of a Change of Status of Residence application is as follows.

1. Step 0: Complete the Marriage Procedure

   A spouse visa application requires that the marriage has been legally established in Japan or your partner's country. For details on marriage registration and required documents, see our International Marriage Guide.

2. Step 1: Prepare Required Documents

   Collect and prepare the documents listed above. Some documents, such as the family register and tax certificates, may take time to obtain, so early preparation is recommended.

3. Step 2: Complete Application Forms

   Accurately fill out the application form and questionnaire. Errors or omissions may delay the review process.

4. Step 3: Submit to the Immigration Services Agency

   Submit the documents to the regional Immigration Services Agency with jurisdiction. The application can be filed by the applicant or by an authorized representative such as an administrative scrivener.

5. Step 4: Review Period

   The review typically takes 1 to 3 months. You may be asked to submit additional materials during this period.

6. Step 5: Result Notification and Residence Card

   Once approved, you will receive a notification. Pick up your new residence card at the Immigration Services Agency to complete the process.

Benefits of Hiring an Administrative Scrivener

The spouse visa application process is complex, and errors or missing documents can lead to rejection. Hiring an administrative scrivener offers the following benefits:

• Accurate preparation of application documents and thorough review
• Advice on additional documents tailored to your specific situation
• Filing on your behalf at the Immigration Services Agency
• Prompt response to requests for additional materials during review
• Reduced risk of application rejection

Our administrative scrivener has personal experience of international marriage with a Myanmar national and understands the challenges firsthand. We provide not only procedural support but also practical advice based on real experience.