Dependent (Spouse / Child)
Spouses and children of foreign nationals holding most work or student statuses in Japan.
The Dependent (Spouse / Child) is a Japanese family & partner visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~¥4,000 on grant; Certificate of Eligibility is free) and processing time (~1-3 months for the Certificate of Eligibility), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Dependent (Spouse / Child) is for
Spouses and children of foreign nationals holding most work or student statuses in Japan.
Follows the principal; counts toward the family's residence record for PR.
Dependent (Spouse / Child) - eligibility criteria
- Legally married to, or a child of, the principal status holder
- Principal holds a qualifying work or study status
- Principal can financially support the family
- Relationship documented
Dependent (Spouse / Child) cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Dependent (Spouse / Child) (Japan) is ~¥4,000 on grant; Certificate of Eligibility is free, with an indicative processing time of ~1-3 months for the Certificate of Eligibility. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at Immigration Services Agency of Japan.
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Certificate of Eligibility filed in Japan; visa issued at a consulate abroad |
| Length of stay | Matched to the principal's status (up to 5 years, renewable) |
| Work rights | Part-time up to 28 hours/week with permission |
| Study rights | Study allowed |
| Government fee | ~¥4,000 on grant; Certificate of Eligibility is free |
| Processing time | ~1-3 months for the Certificate of Eligibility |
| Route to PR | Follows the principal; counts toward the family's residence record for PR. |
Pathway & next steps
Follows the principal; counts toward the family's residence record for PR.
Many applicants also compare Engineer / Humanities · Engineer / Specialist in Humanities / International Services, Spouse of Japanese · Spouse or Child of Japanese National, Student · Student. Run a free VisaChief check to see which Japanese route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Dependent (Spouse / Child) pitfalls we fix
Dependent (Spouse / Child) - frequently asked questions
How much does the Dependent (Spouse / Child) cost?
The Dependent (Spouse / Child) government fee is ~¥4,000 on grant; Certificate of Eligibility is free. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at Immigration Services Agency of Japan before applying.
How long does the Dependent (Spouse / Child) take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~1-3 months for the Certificate of Eligibility. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Dependent (Spouse / Child) lead to permanent residence?
Follows the principal; counts toward the family's residence record for PR.
Can I work on the Dependent (Spouse / Child)?
Work rights: Part-time up to 28 hours/week with permission.
Who can apply for the Dependent (Spouse / Child)?
Spouses and children of foreign nationals holding most work or student statuses in Japan.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Japan government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- Immigration Services Agency of Japan - official Japan immigration authority