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The residence status “Spouse or Child of Permanent Resident” is a visa required for the spouse or child of a foreign national with permanent residency in Japan to live in the country. This article provides a detailed explanation of the “Spouse or Child of Permanent Resident” visa, including an overview, eligibility requirements, and necessary documents for application.
What is the residence status “Spouse or Child of Permanent Resident”?
Eligible Individuals
Children born in Japan to permanent residents or special permanent residents and who have continued to reside in Japan thereafter.
Spouses of permanent residents or special permanent residents.
Period of Stay
The duration of stay can be 5 years, 3 years, 1 year, or 6 months.
For spouses, the period is determined based on a comprehensive assessment by the Immigration Services Agency, considering factors such as the duration and stability of the marriage.
Permitted Activities
There are no specific restrictions on activities, including employment or attending school.
Holders of this residence status can work at any workplace, just like Japanese nationals, permanent residents, or special permanent residents. They are also allowed to manage a business or engage in entrepreneurial activities.
Requirements for Obtaining a “Spouse or Child of Permanent Resident” Visa
To obtain a “Spouse or Child of Permanent Resident” visa, the following requirements must be met. This visa serves as a residence status for the spouse or child of a permanent resident or special permanent resident to live in Japan. Below is a detailed explanation of the specific eligibility criteria.
When a Permanent Resident’s Spouse Applies
1. A legally recognized marital relationship must be established.
- Submission of a marriage certificate is required.
If the applicant is a spouse, they must prove a legally recognized marital relationship with the permanent resident.
In the case of a Japanese spouse, a copy of the family register is required.
For a foreign spouse, a marriage certificate issued by their home country must be submitted. - Confirmation of the Reality of the Marriage
It is required to demonstrate not only a legal marriage but also a substantive marital relationship, including living together as a couple. To prove the reality of the marriage, documents such as photos of the couple together or records of interactions on social media or email may be submitted.
2. Demonstrating Stability of Life
- Proof of Income and Assets
The ability to maintain a stable life in Japan is evaluated. The income and assets of the spouse (permanent resident) are crucial. Examples of required documents include.- Resident tax certificate (for the past 1–3 years)
- Tax payment certificate
- Recent pay slips or withholding tax statements
- Securing Housing
A clear residence in Japan and an adequate living environment must be ensured.
When Applying as a Child of a Permanent Resident
The applicant must have been born in Japan as the child of a permanent resident and must have continued to reside in Japan thereafter.
If the applicant was born outside Japan and later immigrated, if the parents were not permanent residents at the time of the applicant’s birth in Japan, or if the applicant was born in Japan as the child of a permanent resident but has spent a prolonged period abroad, they will not qualify for the “Spouse or Child of Permanent Resident” visa. In such cases, they may instead be eligible for a “Long-Term Resident” visa, so caution is advised.
Additionally, if a child is born in Japan and either parent is a permanent resident, it is possible to obtain a “Permanent Resident” visa for the child within 30 days of birth.
Documents Required for Applying for the “Spouse or Child of Permanent Resident” Visa
The required documents may vary depending on the application details and circumstances, but generally, the following documents are required.
- Certificate of Eligibility Application Form: Fill out the required details on the designated form.
- Photo: Submit one passport-sized photo (4cm x 3cm).
- Return Envelope: Provide a self-addressed envelope for receiving the reply.
- Documents Proving Relationship with Spouse (Permanent Resident): Marriage certificate, family register, or other documents proving a legally recognized marital relationship are required.
- Documents Proving the Spouse’s (Permanent Resident) Income: Proof of the ability to cover living expenses, such as the most recent year’s resident tax certificate (taxable/non-taxable) or tax payment certificate, is required.
- Letter of Guarantee: The spouse (permanent resident) residing in Japan must act as the guarantor and complete the designated form.
- Certificate of Residence: Submit the certificate of residence that includes details of all household members of the spouse (permanent resident).
- Questionnaire: A document where detailed information about the marital relationship and living situation between the couple must be provided.
- Photos and Communication Records: Submit photos of the couple together, as well as social media exchanges, call records, or other evidence to prove the authenticity of the marital relationship.
These documents may vary depending on the application details and individual circumstances, with additional documents required or some being omitted. For further details, please refer to the official website of the Immigration Services Agency of Japan.
Residence Status: “Spouse or Child of Permanent Resident”
If you are unsure about the required documents for your application, please feel free to consult via this inquiry contact.
Summary
The residence status “Spouse or Child of Permanent Resident” applies to the spouse of a permanent or special permanent resident, or a child born in Japan who has continued to reside in the country. To obtain this visa, a legally and substantively valid marital relationship, stable income, and secure housing are required. This visa offers high flexibility with no employment restrictions, making it a highly convenient option for living in Japan.