The website of the Immigration Services Agency of Japan (hereafter “Immigration Bureau”) provides a list of required documents for renewing the period of stay for those with the status of residence “Spouse or Child of Japanese National.”
In this section, we will explain the procedures and requirements for renewing this status.
Please note that the required documents may vary depending on the specific type of residence status and that additional documents may be requested based on the applicant’s individual circumstances.
1) Application Form for Extension of Period of Stay – 1 copy
The form is available for download on the Immigration Services Agency’s website.
2) Photograph — 1 copy
If the photograph does not meet the specified requirements, it will need to be retaken. The photo must meet the following criteria:
- Size: 4 cm (height) × 3 cm (width)
- Taken of the applicant themselves
- No hat or head covering
- Plain background (no patterns or scenery)
- Clear and in focus
- Taken within the past six months
- Applicant’s name written on the back
3) Family Register (Full Certificate) of Japanese Spouse – 1 copy
The document must include a record of the applicant’s marriage.If the marriage is not yet recorded in the family register, both the Family Register (Koseki Tohon) and a Certificate of Acceptance of Marriage Notification must be submitted.
All documents must have been issued within the past three months.。
4) Documents to Prove Financial Means for Staying in Japan
- Certificate of Municipal Resident Tax (Taxable or Non-Taxable) and Tax Payment Certificate for the Past Year
- Copy of Bankbook or Passbook Showing Savings and Deposits
- Certificate of Scheduled Employment or Notification of Job Offer
- Other documents equivalent to the above
5) Letter of Guarantee from the Spouse (Japanese Spouse) – 1 copy
The form is available for download on the Immigration Services Agency’s website.
6) Copy of the Resident Record Listing All Household Members of the Spouse (Japanese Spouse) – 1 copy
Make sure your resident record does not include your Individual Number (My Number).
7) Passport to be Presented at Immigration Counter
8) Residence Card to be Presented at Immigration Counter
★Ask a Legal Expert Now!
Even when renewing your residence card, certain changes in your family situation—such as those listed below—may affect the smooth processing of your application. In such cases, we recommend consulting with a certified immigration specialist (Gyoseishoshi lawyer) before submitting your application.
These professionals can help identify potential areas of concern that the Immigration Bureau may examine, and assist in preparing supplementary documents tailored to your circumstances—helping ensure a smoother and more reliable application process.
- In cases where you divorced and subsequently remarried another partner prior to renewal
- In cases where you are separated from your partner for family-related reasons before renewal
- Other Changes in Family Circumstances