FAQ for Foreigners Married to Japanese Nationals

2024,07,28

Introduction

As an immigration lawyer, I frequently receive questions from foreigners married to Japanese nationals about spouse visas. To help you better understand the visa application process and related matters, I have compiled some commonly asked questions in a Q&A format. I hope this FAQ will be helpful to you.

この記事を日本語で　　日系三世ビザ　申請手続きとよくある質問

Frequently Asked Questions for Spouse visa

Question: Which visa should I apply for if I am married to a Japanese citizen?

Answer: Congratulations on your marriage! You should apply for the “Spouse or Child of Japanese National” visa. This visa allows you to live and work in Japan.

Question: What documents are needed to apply for a spouse visa?

Answer: The main documents required are:

Application form
Passport
ID photograph
Japanese spouse’s family registry (koseki tohon)
Marriage certificate
Documents proving the relationship (photos, communication records, etc.)
Letter of Guarantee from the Japanese spouse
Proof of financial stability (bank statements, employment certificates, tax certificate etc.)
Questionnaire

Question: How do I prove to the immigration authorities that my marriage is genuine?

Answer: You can provide various pieces of evidence, such as:

Photos of time spent together
Communication records (emails, chat logs)

Question: Is proof of financial stability required for the visa application?

Answer: Yes, financial stability is a crucial aspect of the application. You or your spouse must prove that you can sustain your living in Japan. This includes bank statements, employment certificates, or tax certificate.

Question: How long does it take to get a spouse visa approved?

Answer: Processing times vary, but it typically takes 2 to 3 months. It is advisable to apply well in advance of your planned move to Japan.

Question: What should I do if my spouse visa application is denied?

Answer: If your application is denied, you will receive a letter explaining the reasons. Your representative or immigration lawyer can visit the immigration office for more details. If the issues can be addressed, you can reapply with additional evidence or clarification.

Question: Can I work in Japan with a spouse visa?

Answer: Yes, with a spouse visa, you can work in Japan without any additional permits. You can work in any field.

Question: What happens to my visa if I divorce my Japanese spouse?

Answer: If you divorce, you must notify the immigration office within 14 days. You will need to apply for a change of residence status within six months of your divorce to avoid overstaying your visa.

Divorce and Visa procedures in Japan

What you have to do if you get divorced Japanese Spouse

Question: What should I do if my spouse passes away?

Answer: If your Japanese spouse passes away, you must notify the immigration office within 14 days and apply for a change of residence status within 6 months. You may be able to apply for a long-term resident visa if you have children or other significant ties to Japan.

Question: I have children from a previous marriage. Can I bring them to Japan?

Answer: Your children can apply for a “Long-term resident” visa if they are under 18 years old and unmarried. You will need to provide proof of the relationship and financial stability.

Question: My Japanese is not very good. Will this affect my application?

Answer: Language proficiency is not a requirement for the spouse visa, but learning Japanese will greatly help with social integration. There are many language schools and resources to help you improve your Japanese.

Question: How soon before my visa expires should I apply for a renewal?

Answer: You should apply for a renewal of your spouse visa about three months before it expires to ensure there is enough time for processing.

Question: How often do I need to renew my spouse visa?

Answer: Initially, spouse visas are usually valid for 1 or 3 years. You will need to apply for a renewal before your current visa expires. Ensure you have all necessary documents and continue to meet the visa requirements.

Related post: How to get a 3-year spouse visa

Question: What steps do I need to take after my spouse visa is approved and I move to Japan?

Answer: Upon arrival, you must register your residency at the local city or ward office within 14 days and receive your residence card. You will also need to enroll in health insurance and pension schemes. Additionally, setting up a bank account and a mobile phone contract will be necessary.

Question: What are the consequences of overstaying?

Answer: Overstaying can result in fines, detention, and deportation. It will also negatively impact your ability to obtain future visas to Japan. It is crucial to ensure that your visa status is always current and compliant with immigration laws.

Question: Can I leave and re-enter Japan with a spouse visa?

Answer: Yes, you can leave and re-enter Japan with a spouse visa. However, you need to obtain a re-entry permit before leaving Japan if you plan to be away for more than one year. If you are leaving for less than a year, you can use the special re-entry permit system.

Question: How does health insurance work in Japan?

Answer: When you live in Japan, you must enroll in the national health insurance scheme. You will complete this process at the local city or ward office when you register your residency.

Question: How do I obtain a Japanese driver’s license?

Answer: If you have an international driver’s license, it is valid for up to one year. After that, you must convert it to a Japanese driver’s license, which requires taking a driving test and submitting the necessary documents. Check with the local police or driving license center for details.

Question: What do I need to open a bank account in Japan?

Answer: To open a bank account, you will need your residence card, passport, and proof of residence (such as a resident certificate). Some banks may require additional documents or a guarantor.

Question: How do I get a mobile phone contract in Japan?

Answer: To get a mobile phone contract, you will need your residence card, passport, and bank account. There are many mobile phone companies, so compare plans and services to find the one that best suits your needs.

Conclusion:

The visa application process can be complex, but with proper guidance, it becomes more manageable. If you have further questions or need assistance with your application, please do not hesitate to contact us. We are here to help you with your application for spouse visas.