Family Reunion Visa 2025: Sponsoring Spouse/Children A-Z

Bringing your family to Japan is a major milestone. The Dependent Visa (Kazoku Taizai) is a right for those holding Engineer or Skilled Worker visas.

However, Immigration is scrutinizing income more strictly to prevent people from relying on welfare. Many applications are rejected due to small errors like "apartment too small" or "not enough taxes paid."

PART 1: ELIGIBILITY CHECKLIST

1. Income (Most Important):
   • Safe: 180k+ JPY/month (1 person). 220k+ JPY/month (2 people).
   • If lower, you need significant bank savings (1M - 2M JPY).
2. Taxes & Insurance: You must have ZERO delinquent payments for Residence Tax and Health Insurance/Pension.
3. Housing: Your home must be large enough. Minimum 20m² for 2 people. Share houses are usually rejected for couples.

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PART 2: REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

A. From Sponsor (You in Japan):

1. COE Application Form.
2. Residence Card + Passport Copy.
3. Certificate of Employment (Zaishoku Shomeisho).
4. Tax Certificates (Kazei/Nozei): From City Hall.
5. Pay Slips: Last 3 months.

B. From Dependents (Family at home):

1. Passport Copy.
2. Marriage Certificate (Original + Translation).
3. Birth Certificate for Children (Original + Translation).
4. ID Photos (3x4cm).

C. Proof of Relationship:

1. Reasoning Letter (Riyuushou): Write about your love story, when you married, and why you want to live together in Japan.
2. Photos: Wedding photos, travel photos, and chat screenshots as evidence of a genuine relationship.

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PART 3: TIMELINE & COSTS

• COE Application: 1-3 months waiting time.
• Initial Costs: Moving into a family-sized apartment usually costs 200k - 300k JPY (Deposit, Key Money, Agent fees).
• Furniture/Appliances: Budget around 100k - 150k JPY for basic daily needs.

CONCLUSION

Sponsoring family is a lot of work but worth it. Prepare your documents carefully, especially the financial and housing parts. Welcome home!