Many internationally married couples living abroad dream of eventually living together in Japan. However, for the foreign spouse to live in Japan long-term, they need to obtain a residence status called "Spouse or Child of Japanese National" (commonly known as the spouse visa).
If you're wondering "Where do I even start?" or "Is the screening strict?", Wakabayashi Immigration Office has created a video that explains everything from scratch!
This article reviews the key points covered in the video. If you'd like to review the content in text form, please read on.
1. The "3 Requirements" Emphasized in Spouse Visa Screening
Immigration (the Immigration Services Agency) strictly examines the following three key points in their review.
Marriage Credibility
Immigration examines whether the marriage is a "sham marriage for visa purposes." You need to prove with objective documentation that your marriage is genuine, including the history of how you met and came to marry, photos, and message exchanges that evidence your relationship.
Financial Stability
After moving to Japan, whether the couple can be financially independent and maintain a stable life is assessed. You must thoroughly explain your household's income, savings, or employment prospects.
Good Conduct
Immigration checks whether there are any past issues such as overstaying (illegal residence) or criminal records in Japan, confirming there are no legal problems with the applicant's conduct.
2. The "3 Gates" to Clear Before Entering Japan
There are broadly three steps (gates) to pass through in order to obtain a spouse visa and enter Japan.
Certificate of Eligibility (COE) Issuance
First, apply to Immigration in Japan to receive permission (COE) confirming that "it is acceptable to bring this person to Japan." This is the most difficult hurdle with the strictest screening and the longest processing time.
Visa Issuance at the Local Embassy
Once the COE is issued, present it at the Japanese Embassy or Consulate in your country of residence to have a "visa" affixed to your passport.
Immigration Inspection at a Japanese Airport
Arrive in Japan with your passport (with visa) and COE, and pass through immigration inspection at the airport. If everything is in order, your "Residence Card" will be issued, and your new life in Japan begins!
3. Don't Relax After Entry! Maintaining and Renewing Your Residence Status
Even after receiving your Residence Card, there are important rules to follow.
Cohabitation Obligation and the "6-Month Rule"
The spouse visa is based on the premise that "the couple lives together in Japan and cooperates in daily life." If you are not living together without a legitimate reason for 6 months or more, there is a risk that your visa may be revoked.
Residence Period Renewal Screening
The spouse visa has set periods such as "1 year," "3 years," or "5 years." You must apply for "renewal" before your period expires, and your financial situation and marriage status will be reviewed again at that time.
4. Application Procedure Patterns When Living Abroad
When filing an application with Japanese Immigration while both spouses are living abroad, there are broadly three patterns depending on who handles the procedure.
| Pattern | Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| A | Have a relative in Japan (parent, sibling) act as the proxy applicant | When you have relatives you can rely on in Japan |
| B | The Japanese spouse returns to Japan alone first and applies from within Japan | The most common pattern |
| C | Both spouses come to Japan on temporary visitor visas and apply | Exceptional handling; advance preparation and caution required |
The optimal pattern depends on your specific situation (work commitments, whether you have relatives in Japan, etc.).
5. Benefits of Hiring an Immigration Specialist
If you feel "this seems too difficult to do on my own," consider hiring an Immigration Specialist who is an expert in visa applications.
Immigration Specialists authorized by Immigration as "filing agents" can provide the following benefits:
No Need to Visit Immigration
From document preparation to submission, we handle everything on your behalf so you don't need to visit Immigration yourself.
Higher Approval Rate
By preparing proper documentation that addresses key review points, the probability of approval significantly increases.
Smooth Entry to Japan
We minimize the risk of rejections due to errors or requests for additional documentation, ensuring a smooth entry process.
Summary
Obtaining a spouse visa is an important first step toward starting a new life together in Japan. However, the required documents and explanations vary entirely depending on each couple's individual circumstances.
If you live in a different time zone or are anxious about Japanese immigration procedures, please take advantage of our free consultation. We will propose the optimal support plan tailored to your specific situation.