Introduction
The “Dependent” status of residence is necessary for foreign nationals working in Japan to bring their spouse or children into Japan. However, when a sponsor holds several part-time jobs rather than a full-time position, special attention must be paid to how income is proven. This article explains the key points, based on official information, so you can avoid common pitfalls and submit a solid application.
Screening Criteria and Proof of Income for Dependent Visa
What is “Dependent” Status of Residence?
The Dependent status allows a foreign resident in Japan to bring their spouse or child for the purpose of support. The main screening focus is whether the family has sufficient and stable income to live together in Japan.
Proving Income When Holding Multiple Part-Time Jobs
Sponsors with several part-time jobs must submit the following documents for all sources of income:
- Employment certificates from all workplaces
- Payslips from all jobs (ideally for one year)
- “Certificate of Taxation” and “Certificate of Tax Payment” issued by the city office, showing the total annual income for the past year
All income is considered as a whole in the review. If income from only one job is listed, your application may be seen as lacking sufficient economic capacity. Be certain to disclose all jobs.
Can Multiple Part-Time Jobs Meet the “Stability” Requirement?
Stability of income is a key concern. Because part-time work is often seen as less stable than full-time employment, pay fluctuations or frequent job changes require explanation and supporting documentation.
Minimum Income Guidelines and Cost of Living in Japan
No strict minimum income level is published officially for Dependent status, but, in practice, the following annual incomes are often used as benchmarks depending on household size and region:
| Number of Dependents | Income Guideline (Annual) |
|---|---|
| Spouse or Child Only | 2.4 to 3 million yen |
| Spouse + 1 Child | 3 to 3.6 million yen |
| Spouse + 2 Children | 3.6 million yen or more |
These numbers are only guides. The actual required amount may vary based on rent, living costs, savings, and other factors.
Practical Points for Proving Multiple Part-Time Incomes
1. Gather Certificates and Payslips From All Employers
Be sure to collect documents for every job showing your name, title, period of employment, work hours, and pay.
2. Annual Certificates of Taxation Must Show Total Income
Certificates must reflect all your income from all jobs over the past year. Be sure to collect certificates even from previous employers if you changed jobs during the year.
3. Address Irregular or Unstable Income
If your monthly income fluctuates or if you had short-term part-time jobs, attach a written explanation and any contracts showing why and how you will secure sufficient future income.
4. Disclose Every Income Source
Concealing small side jobs is risky; always fully disclose all sources of income on your application, as failing to do so could be cause for refusal.
Case Study
For instance, if an international student A works part-time at both a restaurant and a convenience store, keeping within the permitted 28 hours a week, and their combined annual income is 2.7 million yen, they must submit “employment certificates” and “payslips” from both workplaces as well as a Certificate of Taxation showing the total. If income or job continuity at any workplace is in question, supplementing the application with a written explanation can improve the likelihood of approval.
Conclusion
When applying for Dependent status and the sponsor has multiple part-time jobs, it is crucial to provide detailed and accurate documentation for all sources of income and demonstrate the stability of that income. Gather annual Certificates of Taxation and payslips with care, and always provide truthful, complete information. Always check for the latest guidelines on official government websites.
