Quick Answer
The Spouse of Japanese National visa (日本人の配偶者等) requires proof of a genuine marriage, cohabitation evidence, and financial stability from the Japanese sponsor. Apply through a Certificate of Eligibility if abroad, or status change if already in Japan. Processing takes 1-3 months.
Legal Notice
This article provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration rules change frequently. For your specific situation, consult a licensed administrative scrivener (行政書士 / gyoseishoshi) or immigration lawyer.
Requirements for a Spouse Visa
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Legal marriage | Marriage registered in both Japan and your home country |
| Genuine relationship | ISA evaluates whether the marriage is real — photos, communication history, meeting circumstances |
| Cohabitation | You and your spouse should live together (or plan to upon arrival) |
| Financial stability | Japanese spouse's income or joint household income sufficient to support the family |
| No criminal record | Serious criminal history may result in denial |
Application Flowchart
Document Checklist
- ☐ Application form for Certificate of Eligibility
- ☐ Photo (4x3cm, white background)
- ☐ Marriage certificate (婚姻届受理証明書) from Japanese city hall
- ☐ Foreign marriage certificate (with Japanese translation)
- ☐ Japanese spouse's family register (戸籍謄本)
- ☐ Japanese spouse's residence certificate (住民票)
- ☐ Japanese spouse's tax certificate (課税証明書) and tax payment certificate (納税証明書)
- ☐ Japanese spouse's employment certificate
- ☐ Letter of guarantee (身元保証書) signed by Japanese spouse
- ☐ Reason for marriage statement (質問書) — ISA form explaining how you met
- ☐ Photos together (dating history, wedding, daily life)
- ☐ Communication evidence (chat logs, call records)
- ☐ Foreign spouse's passport copy
- ☐ Return envelope with stamps
Cost Comparison: DIY vs Immigration Agent
| Approach | Cost | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| DIY | ¥4,000 (stamp only) | Lowest cost | Complex paperwork; high refusal risk if docs are weak |
| Gyoseishoshi | ¥100,000 - ¥200,000 | Professional document prep; higher approval rate | Significant cost; still takes 1-3 months processing |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Insufficient proof of genuine relationship — ISA is vigilant about sham marriages
- Low sponsor income without explanation — provide context if income is below typical thresholds
- Inconsistent marriage timeline — dates in your statement and documents should match
- Forgetting to register marriage in both countries before applying
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I work on a Spouse visa?
A: Yes. The Spouse of Japanese National visa has no work restrictions — you can work in any industry, full-time or part-time, without needing a separate work permit.
Q: What if my spouse has low income?
A: ISA considers the household's overall financial picture. If you have savings, assets, or the foreign spouse will work in Japan, include that information with supporting documents.
Spouse visa applications can be complex
A licensed gyoseishoshi can help prepare a strong application package and guide you through the process.
Disclaimer
This article provides general information and may not reflect the latest immigration regulations. Requirements can vary based on nationality and individual circumstances. Consult a licensed gyoseishoshi (行政書士) or immigration lawyer for advice specific to your situation.
Last updated: April 2026.
