Getting Spouse Visa in Japan.

The process of getting married to a Japanese national and obtaining a spouse visa can involve several steps. Keep in mind that the procedures may vary, and it’s important to check with the local authorities and embassy for the most up-to-date information. Here’s a general checklist to guide you through the process:

Before Marriage:

1. Check Legal Requirements:
   • Research the legal requirements for marriage in Japan.
   • Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria.
2. Obtain a Certificate of Eligibility (COE):
   • Your Japanese spouse needs to apply for a Certificate of Eligibility on your behalf from the regional immigration office in Japan.
3. Prepare Necessary Documents:
   • Gather required documents such as your passport, birth certificate, and any other documents requested by the Japanese authorities.
4. Visit Your Embassy:
   • Visit your embassy or consulate in Japan to submit necessary documents and verify any additional requirements.

During Marriage Registration:

1. Submit Marriage Papers:
   • Complete the necessary marriage registration paperwork at the local ward office (kuyakusho) where your Japanese spouse is registered.
2. Obtain a Family Registry (Koseki Tohon):
   • After registering your marriage, your information will be added to your spouse’s family registry.

After Marriage:

1. Apply for Spouse Visa:
   • Once you are officially married, you can apply for a spouse visa.
   • Prepare the required documents, including your COE, marriage certificate, and other supporting materials.
2. Submit Visa Application:
   • Submit your spouse visa application to the Japanese embassy or consulate in your home country.
3. Wait for Approval:
   • Allow time for the visa application to be processed. This can take several weeks.

Upon Arrival in Japan:

1. Complete Residence Card Procedures:
   • Upon arrival in Japan, complete the residence card procedures at the local immigration office.
2. Health Insurance:
   • Enroll in the National Health Insurance system.
3. Open a Bank Account:
   • Open a bank account, as it may be required for various transactions.
4. Learn Japanese:
   • While not a requirement, learning Japanese can greatly enhance your experience and integration into Japanese society such as finding a job, moving up in your career ladder. Making Japanese friends can also be made easier by learning Japanese. You can pick up Japanese language easily at Valiant Language School.

Ongoing Responsibilities:

1. Visa Renewal:
   • Keep track of your visa expiration date and renew it when necessary.
2. Notify Authorities of Changes:
   • Inform the immigrati