Introduction
Many foreign nationals with a spouse residence status worry if a brief period of separation from their Japanese or permanent resident spouse may lead to denial at renewal. While Japanese Immigration generally emphasizes cohabitation, renewal may be allowed if you can properly explain the reasonable circumstances and ongoing marital relationship, with supporting evidence.
The Importance of Cohabitation in Spouse Visa Screening
The spouse visa requires a stable marital life in Japan. Authorities mainly check official records such as residence certificates. Separate living can raise suspicion of fake marriage or impending divorce, but exceptions are possible if circumstances are reasonable.
Why Separation Causes Problems
- Preventing fake marriages: Due to relaxed work restrictions, Immigration is wary of improper use of the visa.
- Suspicions of imminent divorce: If communication and financial support are lacking, renewal is unlikely.
- Doubts on marital stability: Absence of financial support or regular contact may be seen as evidence against a real marriage.
Cases Where Separation Is Allowed
The following situations may justify renewal:
- Work transfer or single posting (submit employment documents)
- Childbirth, child-rearing, or family care (submit medical or other certificates)
- Education or qualification studies (submit school certificates)
- Temporary housing issues or moving preparations (emphasize short period)
Cases with High Risk of Refusal
- Unclear or insufficient explanation
- Prolonged separation (over six months) with no proof of contact or financial support
- Effectively broken marriage
- Submission of false documents (such as false address on official records)
Required Documents and Explanation Points
When separated, submit additional documentation:
- Reason statement (timing, reasons, period, contact, financial support, intended cohabitation)
- Supporting documents (work certificate, medical certificate, school certificate)
- Proof of ongoing marital relationship (communication records, family photos, travel records, financial records)
Case-Specific Responses
| Case | Documents | Key Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Work transfer/single posting | Employment order, company certificate, salary | Unavoidable reason; show financial support and contact |
| Family care/childbirth | Medical/documents | Temporary reason, with duration and planned reunion |
| Studies/qualification | School documents | Limited duration, plan to reunite, proof of contact |
Tips
- Always explain the reason and provide supporting evidence if separation is clear.
- Even for short separations, show there is a reasonable explanation and continuity of your marriage.
- Do not falsify information—doing so may jeopardize all future applications.
Conclusion
With reasonable circumstances and proof of continuing marriage, renewal is possible even after temporary separation. Consulting an administrative scrivener for assistance in preparing effective explanations and evidence is highly recommended. Accurate application is the best way to ensure successful renewal.
