Japan Sets New Dependent Visa Requirements for Foreigners

Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has published the official requirements for foreign nationals wishing to obtain a dependent visa to live in Japan with family members already residing in the country. This visa, classified under general visas for family stays, allows foreign relatives to join their family members for a period determined by the Minister of Justice, with a maximum duration of five years.

Applicants must submit a valid passport, a completed visa application form, and a passport-sized photograph. Nationals from Russia, CIS countries, or Georgia are required to submit two visa application forms and two photographs.

Additionally, a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) is necessary, which can be presented as an original or a copy. This certificate, issued by a regional immigration authority in Japan, certifies that the applicant meets the conditions for landing in Japan.

While holding a COE facilitates the visa application process, it does not guarantee visa issuance. Applicants may proceed without a COE but must provide more supporting documents, leading to longer processing times.