One of the residence statuses available for living in Japan is called “Spouse or Child of Japanese National.”
This status applies to foreign nationals who are legally married to a Japanese citizen—for example, in cases of international marriage where the couple lives together in Japan.
However, relationships such as de facto marriages (common-law partnerships) and same-sex marriages are not currently recognized under Japanese law, and therefore do not qualify for this residence status.
Since same-sex marriage is not legally acknowledged in Japan at this time, it is unfortunately excluded from this category.
That said, the term “Spouse or Child” indicates that the status is not limited to married partners. It also includes children of Japanese nationals. Even if the child holds a foreign nationality, they may be eligible if their Japanese parent has legally acknowledged them.
In the case of adoption, only those who have been adopted through a “special adoption” process are eligible. This refers to adoptions approved by a family court under exceptional circumstances, such as child abuse.
Ordinary adoptions do not qualify. This residence status is designed to support individuals who have a close legal and familial connection to a Japanese national, allowing them to live in Japan with stability.
For that reason, it is essential that the legal relationship is clearly recognized and documented.
◆Employment Under the “Spouse or Child of Japanese National” Residence Status
The “Spouse or Child of Japanese National” residence status applies to foreign nationals who are legally married to a Japanese citizen, as well as to children who have a Japanese parent.
Holders of this status are permitted to work freely in Japan without restrictions on the type of employment. This flexibility allows for a broader range of lifestyle choices and is a major advantage for building a stable life in Japan.
However, because of this freedom, immigration authorities may carefully examine the authenticity of the marriage.
In other words, they may investigate whether the couple is genuinely married and living together, in order to prevent fraudulent applications.
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When applying for the “Spouse or Child of Japanese National” residence status, you will need to submit documents that prove your marriage is genuine.
This is because the Immigration Services Agency carefully checks to ensure the relationship is not a case of a “sham marriage.”
The types of documents required vary from person to person. Every marriage is different, and so is every lifestyle—there’s no single template that fits all.
If you’re unsure what to submit, or worried about whether your situation will be properly understood, it’s a good idea to consult with an administrative scrivener.
Administrative scriveners can listen carefully to your story and help you prepare documents that reflect your unique circumstances. With their support, you’ll be able to move forward with confidence, knowing your efforts and your life together are being clearly communicated.
◆Who Qualifies for the “Spouse or Child of Japanese National” Status
To apply for this residence status, you must submit documents to the Immigration Services Agency that demonstrate you meet certain requirements.
For example, you will need to provide evidence that your marriage is genuine and that you are living together as a married couple. These documents help establish the reality of your relationship.
However, these are only the basic requirements. Depending on your individual circumstances, you may be asked to provide more detailed explanations or additional supporting documents.
・Married Couple Living Together in Harmony and Mutual Support
These days, there are many different forms of marriage. Some couples live apart due to long-distance relationships, work commitments, or family circumstances.
However, when applying for the “Spouse or Child of Japanese National” residence status, it is generally required that the couple live together.
This is a key point for immigration authorities, as they need to confirm whether the couple is truly living as husband and wife.
・Ability to Sustain a Family Livelihood
Having enough income to support daily life is an important requirement.
When applying for a residence status, one key point is whether the couple has sufficient income or savings to maintain a stable life together.
This helps immigration authorities determine whether the applicant can live in Japan with financial security. Importantly, the assessment is based on the household’s overall financial situation.
◆Procedure for Obtaining a Certificate of Eligibility for the “Spouse or Child of Japanese National” Residence Status
For foreign nationals who wish to live in Japan for an extended period, the first step is to obtain a document called a Certificate of Eligibility.
For example, those who are married to a Japanese citizen would apply for the “Spouse or Child of Japanese National” residence status.
This application process requires not only the applicant’s efforts, but also the cooperation of their Japanese spouse and family members. To build a future together in Japan, it’s important that everyone prepares carefully and thoughtfully.
1) Proceeding with the Application for the “Spouse or Child of Japanese National” Residence Status
This residence status is required for foreign nationals who wish to live together with their Japanese partner in Japan for the medium to long term.
To apply, the marriage procedures must be fully completed. Applications cannot be submitted while the couple is still engaged.
In addition, under current Japanese law, same-sex marriage is not legally recognized. As a result, same-sex couples are not eligible for this residence status.
2) Who Can Apply and What Is Being Submitted?
To bring a foreign spouse to live in Japan, the Japanese partner must apply for a Certificate of Eligibility.
This application is submitted by the Japanese national. If the foreign partner is already residing in Japan under a different residence status, the appropriate procedure is to apply for a “change of status of residence.” In some cases, couples marry while the foreign partner is in Japan on a short-term visa (such as for tourism), and hope to switch directly to a long-term stay.
However, it’s important to note that short-term stay does not allow for an extension based on the assumption that a Certificate of Eligibility will be granted.
Depending on the situation, the foreign partner may be required to leave Japan temporarily during the application process. For this reason, applying while on a short-term visa requires careful attention and planning.
3) Preparing Required Documents for the “Spouse or Child of Japanese National” Residence Status Application
Both the Japanese partner and the foreign spouse are required to prepare and submit their own set of documents. Any documents obtained from the foreign partner’s home country must be accompanied by a Japanese translation.
In addition, the translation must include the translator’s name and signature to be considered valid.
★Important Notes on Required Documents
The Immigration Services Agency provides a list of required documents on its website, but submitting only those documents does not guarantee approval.
What truly matters is how you demonstrate—through your paperwork—that your marriage is genuine and not a sham. If the immigration officer determines that the evidence is insufficient, unfortunately, your application may be denied.
Please note that immigration screening is conducted entirely through written documents; verbal explanations are not accepted during the review process.
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When preparing the required documents for your application, it is essential to first check the list provided on the Immigration Services Agency’s official website.
However, in the actual screening process, it is not just about whether all the listed documents are submitted. What truly matters is how effectively your documents convey the reality of your marriage and personal circumstances.
For this reason, we recommend consulting with a certified immigration specialist, such as a Gyoseishoshi (Administrative Scrivener), if possible. These professionals will take the time to understand your individual situation and help you consider what kinds of supplementary documents might best communicate the authenticity of your relationship.
This kind of careful preparation and documentation is crucial to increase your chances of approval on the first application.
Since the process may involve sharing private details about your life and family, it’s important to find a trustworthy expert you feel comfortable working with.
4) Submission of Documents for Residence Status Application to Immigration Services
Once all the required documents for your application are ready, the next step is to submit them to the Immigration Services Bureau.
This submission can be made directly by the applicant or their Japanese spouse.
However, if you have contracted a certified administrative scrivener (gyōsei shoshi), they may submit the documents on your behalf. Administrative scriveners who hold a special qualification known as “Application Agent Status” (申請取次資格) are authorized to file immigration applications for clients.
By using this system, neither the applicant nor their spouse needs to visit the immigration office in person.
★Important Notice for Those Applying on Their Own
Don’t Forget to Double-Check Before You Submit!
Always Keep Copies of Your Documents. When submitting documents to the Immigration Services Agency, it’s essential to make copies of everything you hand in. Immigration officers make their decision—approval or denial—based solely on the submitted materials.
If your application is unfortunately denied and you don’t have copies of what you submitted, it can be very difficult to understand what went wrong, making reapplication much more challenging.
This is especially true if you worked with a certified administrative scrivener (gyoseishoshi) for your initial application but are unable to continue with them for a second attempt. In such cases, having your own set of documents can be an invaluable reference when planning your next steps.
Think of keeping copies not just as a precaution, but as a vital step toward peace of mind. Make it a rule: always keep a complete set of your submitted documents.
5) Submitting Additional Supporting Documents
As you proceed with your residence status application, immigration authorities may ask you to submit additional documents.
For example, they might point out that “your explanation regarding your employment history is insufficient.”
Unfortunately, you won’t always receive specific instructions like “submit this document and you’ll be fine.” Instead, it’s often up to the applicant to determine how best to clarify the issue.
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Communicating with immigration authorities is, in many ways, like taking a test where you must explain your situation clearly—using documents alone. That’s why the content and clarity of each document you submit are so important.
If you’re feeling uncertain or have questions, consulting with a certified immigration specialist—such as a Gyoseishoshi (Administrative Scrivener)—can help you prepare with greater confidence.
They can work with you to identify the best ways to document your unique circumstances and ensure your application tells your story effectively. A trusted professional can guide you through the process and help you build a strong application, tailored to your life.
6) Completion of Procedures for Acquiring “Spouse or Child of Japanese National” Residence Status
Once your change of status is approved, your new residence card—reflecting the “Spouse or Child of Japanese National” status—will be issued in exchange for your previous residence card.
◆When a Change of Status Is Not Approved: Steps Toward Reapplying
Even if you submit an application to change your residence status, there are cases where the result may be “not granted” or denied.
This is not uncommon, and often the reason lies in the submitted documents not fully conveying the reality of your situation. If this happens, it’s up to you to decide whether to reapply.
However, simply resubmitting the same documents and explanations rarely leads to a different outcome.
That’s why it’s important to take a step back and calmly reflect on why the application was denied, and carefully identify what may have caused the issue. Understanding the reason behind the denial is the first step toward preparing a stronger application.
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If your application to change residence status is not approved, it’s important to approach reapplication with even greater care.
Immigration authorities are not legally required to explain the reason for denial, so you may not receive a clear explanation. That’s why it’s essential to review the documents you submitted and consider what may have been missing or unclear.
This is precisely when seeking advice from a certified administrative scrivener (gyoseishoshi) can be especially helpful. A professional can carefully examine your previous application and your current life circumstances, helping you identify which documents to add and how to improve your explanations.
To receive approval in a single application, you may be asked to share personal details about your relationship and daily life. These conversations are a vital part of building a strong and accurate application—and are handled with care and confidentiality.
After a denial, preparing thoroughly for your next application is more important than ever. With expert support and thoughtful planning, you can take confident steps toward a successful outcome.
7) Sending the Certificate of Eligibility to the Foreign Partner and Applying for a Visa at a Japanese Embassy or Consulate
Once the Certificate of Eligibility is issued by the Immigration Services Agency, it must be sent to your partner residing abroad.
After receiving it, your partner will apply for a visa at the nearest Japanese embassy or consulate.
Please note that the certificate has a validity period of three months, so it’s important to proceed with the process promptly. Since obtaining a visa can also take time, we recommend starting preparations early and allowing plenty of time in your schedule.
8) Arrival in Japan and Obtaining a Residence Card
Foreign nationals entering Japan with a medium- to long-term residence status will be issued a Residence Card.
This card serves as official proof of the individual’s legal stay in Japan.
At certain airports, the Residence Card may be handed directly to the individual upon arrival. At other airports, however, the card is sent by mail after the person has registered their address at the local municipal office.
By law, the Residence Card must be carried at all times.
For example, if a police officer or other public official asks to see it, you are required to present it promptly. Even for short outings, it’s best not to assume “I probably won’t need it today.”
Always keep your Residence Card with you, as it is an important document that protects your legal status in Japan. Be sure to store it safely and carry it with you at all times.
◆Required Documents for Obtaining the “Spouse or Child of Japanese National” Residence Status
These are the required documents listed on the Ministry of Justice’s official website. Depending on the applicant’s individual circumstances, additional supporting documents may be required.
1) Application for Certificate of Eligibility — 1 copy
The form is available for download on the Immigration Services Agency’s website.
→Click here to access official documents from the Immigration Bureau.
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 (Koseki Tohon) of the Japanese Spouse (Full Certificate of All Entries) — 1 copy
The family register must include an entry confirming the applicant’s marriage to the Japanese spouse.
If the marriage has not yet been recorded in the family register, a Certificate of Acceptance of Marriage must also be submitted along with the family register.
4) Marriage Certificate issued by a government authority in the applicant’s country of nationality — 1 copy
A Japanese translation signed by the translator is enclosed.
5) Proof of financial resources for staying in Japan
Certificate of Residence Tax (Taxable or Non-Taxable) and Tax Payment Certificate for the Past Year, Copy of Bankbook, Certificate of Scheduled Employment or Offer Letter, or Other documents of similar nature.
6) Letter of Personal Guarantee (Mimoto Hoshosho) by the Japanese Spouse — 1 copy
The form is available for download on the Immigration Services Agency’s website.
→Click here to access official documents from the Immigration Bureau.
7) Resident Certificate (Juminhyo) of the Japanese Spouse, including all household members — 1 copy
Copy of the Resident Certificate excluding the Individual Number (My Number)
8) Written Statement of Questions
The form is available for download on the Immigration Services Agency’s website.
A written statement is a document that includes information such as the applicant’s personal details, the circumstances leading to the marriage, the language used when communicating with the spouse, the names of the witnesses on the marriage registration, and other related matters.
→Click here to access official documents from the Immigration Bureau.
9) Materials showing the couple’s interaction and shared life
Photos of the couple (clearly showing both faces, unedited), social media interactions, and phone call history.
10) Return envelope with address and required postage (simplified registered mail) — 1 copy
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When applying for a residence status, it’s not just about submitting the required documents — it’s about making sure your situation is clearly understood.
The Immigration Services Agency’s website provides a list of necessary documents, but submitting only those does not guarantee approval.
Depending on your individual circumstances, immigration officers may have questions or concerns such as, “This part seems unclear…”
By anticipating such doubts and including supplemental materials or written explanations, you can help ensure a smoother review process.
Your first application is especially important. If it’s denied due to missing documents or insufficient explanation, you may face another rejection later — without knowing exactly what went wrong.
That’s why preparing thoroughly from the beginning is essential.
If you’re unsure what documents are needed for your case, or whether your explanation is clear enough, we strongly recommend consulting a certified immigration lawyer (Gyoseishoshi) from the start.
◆Period of Stay for the “Spouse or Child of Japanese National” Residence Status
In Japan, the period of stay is typically set to one of the following: 6 months, 1 year, 3 years, or 5 years. For first-time applicants, a one-year period is most commonly granted.
If you continue to live a stable life without any issues, your period of stay may gradually be extended with each renewal. This can be seen as a sign that your life is becoming well-rooted in Japanese society.
However, if you commit any acts that violate the law, your residence status may be revoked — and you may no longer be allowed to stay in Japan.
It’s also very important to pay close attention to your residence expiration date.Even if you overstay by just one day, it may be considered illegal residency.
To avoid this, we strongly recommend starting your renewal procedures well in advance.
→Click Here to Learn About the Procedure for Extending Your Period of Stay
◆Important Points to Note After Obtaining the “Spouse or Child of Japanese National” Residence Status
For those who have obtained a residence status as the spouse of a Japanese national, maintaining a stable and ongoing marital relationship is a crucial factor in future renewals of that status.
For example, if the couple has been living apart for an extended period, or if the marriage is deemed to have effectively broken down, the period of stay may be shortened, or renewal may be denied.
This is because the basis for the residence status — a genuine and continuing marital relationship — is considered to no longer exist. In addition, involvement in criminal acts or violations of laws and regulations may result in the revocation of your residence status. If your status is revoked, it may become difficult to re-enter Japan in the future.
◆Divorce or Bereavement Involving a Japanese Spouse
If you are residing in Japan as the spouse of a Japanese national and your marriage ends due to divorce or bereavement, you are required to notify the Immigration Services Agency (Ministry of Justice).
This notification must, in principle, be submitted within 14 days of the change.
We understand that such sudden changes in your personal circumstances can be emotionally overwhelming.
However, submitting this notification does not mean that your residence status will be immediately revoked.
What matters first is to accurately report your current situation.
If you wish to continue living in Japan, you may consider applying to change your status to one such as “Long-Term Resident.” In such cases, your past record of living in Japan and your connection to the local community will be taken into account.
→Click Here for Information on the “Long-Term Resident” Status
◆Applying for Permanent Resident Status
As your life in Japan grows — through work, family, and connections with your local community — you may begin to feel that you’d like to settle down here for the long term.
If you have built a stable foundation in Japan and wish to continue living here in the future, we strongly encourage you to consider applying for permanent residency once the necessary conditions are met.
●Advantages of Becoming a Permanent Resident
- Since renewal of the residence period is no longer necessary, it becomes easier to design a stable, long-term life plan.
- You will no longer need to renew your period of stay, making it easier to plan your life in Japan over the long term.
- You may still be able to stay in Japan after a divorce or bereavement involving your Japanese spouse.
Put simply, permanent residency provides the stability you need to continue living in Japan with confidence and security
→Click here for details on permanent residency applications.
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Take your time — both emotionally and practically — when preparing for permanent residency.
If you are residing in Japan as the spouse of a Japanese national and are considering applying for permanent residency, it’s best to start preparing early.
The application process requires careful organization of your living history, income records, and residence status over time.
Even if you feel that it’s “still a bit early,” beginning with plenty of time allows you to proceed with peace of mind.
A certified immigration lawyer (Gyoseishoshi) can support you every step of the way. From preparing the necessary documents to drafting personalized explanations that reflect your individual circumstances, professional guidance can make a big difference.Gyoseishoshi professionals take the time to understand your background and intentions, helping ensure that your application moves forward smoothly and with care.