Introduction

After marriage, some couples experience conflict or brief separation within a few months. In such cases, there are significant concerns about how this may impact the renewal of the status of residence known as the “Spouse or Child of Japanese National” visa. This article explains in detail what explanations are necessary for the Immigration Bureau when renewing a visa amid separation or marital discord shortly after marriage, based on the latest government and legal information.

Spouse Visa Renewal and Marital Discord: Basic Immigration Perspective

The essential requirements for the “Spouse or Child of Japanese National” visa include not only the legal continuation of marriage but also living together and mutually supporting each other in a genuine marital relationship. Therefore, if separation or estrangement continues for several months, the renewal examination becomes rigorous. Even if conflict or a cooling-off period is temporary, applicants must objectively prove the intention to continue the marital relationship.

Impact of Separation on the Screening Process

Separation tends to be viewed as a sign of marital breakdown, especially in cases such as:

• Separation continuing for over three months
• Changing the registered domicile to different addresses
• Lack of communication or financial support between spouses

However, separation does not necessarily mean denial. If there are reasonable reasons and a clear intention to continue the marriage, the visa renewal may still be approved.

Explanation and Required Documents for Renewal Application

When applying for renewal amid separation or marital discord, the following explanations and documentary evidence are important:

Reason Statement

• Start date and reason for separation (work, study, caregiving, temporary conflict, domestic violence, cooling-off period for reconciliation, etc.)
• Expected duration of separation and plans to resume living together
• Financial support and communication during separation (remittance records, communication logs)
• Efforts to maintain the marriage (counseling, reconciliation talks)

Supporting Documents

• Resident registry, lease agreements, certificates from workplace or school if separation is job- or study-related
• Medical or police reports if domestic violence is involved
• Records of LINE, SNS, or email communications
• Bank transfer and remittance receipts
• Written statements from multiple witnesses (family or acquaintances)

Immigration Officer’s Focus: Avoiding Denial Risks

It is crucial to reinforce the intention and facts of marital continuation with reasonable explanations and evidence. False declarations or forged documents are strictly punished. Depending on the situation, changing the status of residence to “Designated Activities” might be an option, so consulting experts or administrative scriveners is advisable.

Case Example

For example, Mr./Ms. A, who separated temporarily after six months due to frequent quarrels, submitted evidence of communication history, financial support, and family statements along with a detailed explanation letter, resulting in visa renewal approval with a shortened period. (This example is illustrative and based on public information.)

Official Information and Consultation

The Immigration Services Agency of Japan and the Ministry of Justice’s “Comprehensive Foreign Resident Information Center” provide official guidance and the latest application forms and requirements.

Summary

Even if quarrels or separation occur within months after marriage, visa renewal is possible if applicants clearly explain and prove the intention to continue the marriage. Honest declaration and objective evidence are paramount. Consultation with administrative scriveners or experts is recommended when in doubt.