Japan Sets New Visa Requirements for Foreign Spouses

Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has officially announced the requirements for foreign nationals who are spouses or children of Japanese citizens seeking a long-stay visa under the Specified Visa for a Spouse or Child of a Japanese National category. This visa allows stays of six months, one year, three years, or five years.

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

A critical document is the Certificate of Eligibility (COE), which confirms that the applicant's intended activities in Japan meet the necessary conditions under the Immigration Control Act. While presenting a COE can expedite the visa application process, it does not guarantee visa issuance.

If a Japanese spouse is abroad and unable to apply for the COE from Japan, the ministry advises contacting the relevant embassy or consulate for guidance. Applicants may also apply without a COE, but this requires more supporting documents and longer processing times.