Dependent Visa and Children’s Schooling｜Key Points to Prepare Together with the Business Manager Visa
Quick Overview: When applying for a Business Manager Visa in Japan, many questions arise such as: “Can I bring my family with me?” “How can my children go to school in Japan?” This article explains the rules of the Dependent Visa, required documents, schooling options by age, housing conditions, and the preparations to make alongside the Business Manager Visa application.
What is a Dependent Visa?
The Dependent Visa is a status of residence that allows spouses and minor children of Business Manager Visa holders to stay in Japan. Parents and siblings are generally not eligible.
Work rules for spouses: In principle, employment is not allowed. However, if the spouse obtains a Permission to Engage in Activity Other Than That Permitted, part-time work up to 28 hours per week is possible. Full-time work requires changing to another work-related visa (e.g., Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services, Specified Skilled Worker).
Required Documents for Dependent Visa Application
- Residence card and passport of the Business Manager Visa holder
- Marriage certificate, birth certificate, or other proof of family relationship (with Japanese translation)
- Lease contract of housing (must be suitable for the whole family)
- Proof of financial ability to support the family (salary slips, bank balance certificates, company financial statements, etc.)
Screening focus: Financial ability is most important. If you have just obtained your Business Manager Visa, supplementing with your business plan and capital details can help prove stability.
Children’s Schooling in Japan｜Varies by Age
Preschool (Nursery/Kindergarten)
Admission availability depends on the municipality, and waiting lists may exist. Consult and apply early at the city office to secure a place.
Elementary & Junior High School
Foreign children can attend public elementary and junior high schools free of charge. Applications are made to the local Board of Education, and must be done immediately after visa issuance. Many areas provide Japanese language support, but services vary by region.
High School
Both public and private high schools generally require entrance exams. Some schools offer foreign student quotas or English-based programs, but research and preparation are necessary.
If choosing an international school, tuition fees can exceed 2 million yen per year, so financial planning is essential.
Housing Conditions for Family Accompaniment
You must secure housing suitable for the entire family. Small “one-room” apartments are usually not accepted for Dependent Visa applications.
It is recommended that the Business Manager Visa holder be the contract holder, with the number of family members correctly listed in the lease contract.
What to Prepare Together with the Business Manager Visa
- Translated family relationship documents (marriage, birth certificates)
- Housing that meets family living requirements
- Collect information on schools or childcare facilities and prepare applications
- Financial plan covering living and education expenses (6–12 months recommended)
Important tip: School applications often have strict schedules and quotas. Be ready to apply as soon as your visa is issued by preparing documents and backup options in advance.
Common Mistakes & Pitfalls
- Assuming the spouse can work freely (→ Actually requires permission and is limited to 28 hours/week)
- Delaying school arrangements until after arrival, causing enrollment delays
- Applying without housing suitable for the whole family, resulting in visa refusal
Key point: Business Manager Visa and Dependent Visa preparation must be done in parallel to ensure both smooth approval and a stable family life in Japan.
Checklist (Before Application)
- Family relationship documents translated and prepared
- Housing suitable for family living, with contract holder and number of residents correctly stated
- Children’s schooling options secured (Plan A/B)
- Financial proof for 6–12 months of living and education expenses
- Clear policy for spouse’s work: work permission or status change to work visa
Conclusion
Obtaining a Business Manager Visa is not only about starting a business in Japan, but also about establishing a stable foundation for your family’s life. By understanding the rules of Dependent Visa and Japan’s schooling system, and preparing housing, documents, and schooling in advance, you can minimize the risk of visa denial and reduce uncertainty for your family.
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