Chapter 5｜Dependent Visa: Bringing Your Spouse & Children to Japan

For many foreign entrepreneurs who have obtained a Business Manager Visa in Japan, the next major question is:
“Can I bring my spouse and children to live with me in Japan?”
“What documents are required for a Dependent Visa?”
“Is my spouse allowed to work? Can my children attend school in Japan?”
This chapter provides a comprehensive guide to the Dependent Visa (Family Stay), including eligibility, required documents, common pitfalls, and practical examples.

◆ What is a Dependent Visa?

The Dependent Visa is a residence status that allows foreign residents with a mid-to-long term visa in Japan to bring their immediate family members to live with them. Eligible dependents include:

• Holders of a Business Manager Visa, Student Visa, or work-related visas (e.g., Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services)
• Legally married spouses
• Unmarried minor children (generally under 20 years old)

The main purpose of this visa is to secure family cohabitation. It is not designed for employment, and therefore full-time work is not permitted under this status.

◆ Eligibility & Required Documents

Applicants must prepare and submit the following documents to the Immigration Services Agency:

• Identity documents: Residence Card, Certificate of Residence, Company Registry of the Business Manager Visa holder
• Proof of relationship: Marriage certificate, birth certificates of children (with Japanese translation)
• Proof of financial capacity: Bank statements, tax certificates, salary slips demonstrating sufficient income to support family members
• Application for Certificate of Eligibility (CoE): Required for dependents applying from overseas

Important: Inconsistencies between documents (e.g., income vs. savings proof) or missing translations often lead to rejection.

◆ Can a Spouse Work? Can Children Study?

• Spouse’s employment: Full-time work is not allowed. However, by obtaining a Permission to Engage in Activity Other Than That Permitted, spouses may work part-time up to 28 hours per week. Full-time work requires a separate work visa.
• Children’s education: Dependent Visa holders’ children are allowed to attend public schools, private schools, or international schools in Japan. Many municipalities provide Japanese language support programs for foreign students.
• Unmarried partners: Dependent Visas apply only to legally married spouses. Unmarried partners are not eligible, but other visa options may be explored.

◆ Case Studies: Success and Failure

Successful case:
Mr. F from Taiwan established a design company in Osaka under a Business Manager Visa. He applied for Dependent Visas for his wife and two children. With complete documentation (marriage certificate, children’s birth certificates, sufficient financial proof) and the support of an Administrative Scrivener, the entire family was approved smoothly. His children enrolled in a local elementary school, while his wife obtained part-time work authorization.

Unsuccessful case:
Mr. G submitted inconsistent financial statements and incomplete translations. His application was rejected, delaying his family’s move to Japan by six months until resubmission. This highlights the importance of professional preparation.

◆ The Value of Administrative Scrivener Support

Applying for a Dependent Visa requires cross-border documents, certified translations, and financial documentation. Even minor errors may result in refusal.
A professional Administrative Scrivener (Gyoseishoshi) can assist by:

• Confirming eligibility for spouses and children
• Providing detailed document checklists and certified translations
• Advising on financial documentation strategies
• Planning application timelines to minimize risk

With expert support, families can secure a smoother path to residency in Japan.

◆ Conclusion

The Dependent Visa is essential for foreign entrepreneurs in Japan who wish to live with their families. With proper documentation and guidance, both spouses and children can obtain residency, access education, and build a stable life in Japan.
To avoid unnecessary risks and delays, it is strongly recommended to seek advice from an Administrative Scrivener experienced in immigration matters.

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