Basic Requirements for Dependent visa in Japan.
- • The sponsor must have a stable lifestyle in Japan, including suitable housing.
- • The sponsor must have sufficient financial means to support their dependents.
- • The period of stay for dependents will match the sponsor’s visa (maximum 5 years).
Required Documents
Basic Documents
1.Application form for Certificate of Eligibility (Immigration Bureau form)
2.One photograph (4cm × 3cm, taken within the last 3 months)
3.Return envelope (not required for online applications)
4.Copy of the sponsor’s Residence Card
5.Copy of the sponsor’s passport (ID page and pages with residence stamps)
6.Resident Record (Juminhyo) including all household members
7.Marriage certificate, birth certificate, or adoption certificate proving family relationship
8.Documents proving sponsor’s occupation and income (Certificate of Employment, Tax Certificates, etc.)
Additional Documents (Depending on the Case)
〇If the sponsor is a student: Certificate of Enrollment, Scholarship Certificate, Bank Balance Certificate
〇f the sponsor is married to a Japanese national or permanent resident: Apply under “Spouse of Japanese National” or “Spouse of Permanent Resident” visa category, not Family Stay
Common Reasons for Refusal (Why Applications Get Rejected)
Even if you submit all documents, your Family Stay Visa (Dependent Visa Japan) may be refused in certain situations.
1.Unstable or insufficient income of the sponsor — Immigration must be convinced that you can financially support your family in Japan.
2.Lack of proper housing — If the accommodation is considered unsuitable for family members.
3.Unclear or missing family relationship documents — Incomplete or outdated marriage/birth certificates, or failure to provide legally recognized adoption papers.
4.Doubts about the authenticity of marriage — If the marriage is suspected to be a “marriage of convenience.”
5.Incorrect visa category — For example, applying for Family Stay when you should apply as “Spouse of Japanese National” or “Spouse of Permanent Resident.”
6.Past immigration violations — Previous overstays or visa breaches can negatively affect the application.