Introduction

With the rise in international marriages, more people holding the “Spouse or Child of Japanese National” visa find themselves spending extended periods abroad for work or family reasons. Many are concerned whether such long-term overseas stays might disadvantage them when renewing their visa. This article explains the current situation based on official information from the Ministry of Justice and other authorities.

Basic Points for Visa Renewal Screening

Key factors for “Spouse or Child of Japanese National” visa renewal:

• Reality and continuity of marriage (living together, mutual support)
• Whether Japan remains the household base
• Financial stability (income, tax payment, etc.)
• Law-abiding status (pension/insurance enrollment, no unpaid taxes)​

No Legal Obligation for Constant Cohabitation

There is no explicit legal requirement for married couples to physically reside together at all times. Immigration practice allows for justified temporary separations or long-term stays abroad, provided a clear reason is presented and the couple intends to resume cohabitation.​

Valid reasons include:

• Overseas assignment or business travel
• Overseas study or research
• Caregiving or childbirth in home country

As long as the marital relationship is genuine and ongoing, and the intention to continue living together is shown, visa renewal may be accepted.​

When Can Long-Term Overseas Stay Be a Disadvantage?

Issues arise if:

• The reason or duration of the stay is unclear
• There is little evidence of ongoing contact or financial ties
• The marriage appears to be over in substance (near divorce/separation)​

Officers scrutinize whether a real marital relationship and a Japanese household base exist. Submit clear explanations and evidence, such as return plans, remittance records, and contact logs.​

Documents Commonly Required

• Written explanation of stay/return plans
• Enrollment/employment certification abroad
• Remittance or support records
• Proof of ongoing communication and photos
• Resident registration and tax certificates​

With reasonable explanations and evidence of ongoing marriage, extended overseas stays are not automatically a disadvantage.​

Example

For instance, if “the wife is overseas for a two-year transfer, the husband remains in Japan, sending remittances and communicating regularly, with home visits during holidays,” this is considered a permissible case—if reasons are clear and the intent to reunite in Japan is shown. The period and frequency do affect assessment, so explanations must be tailored to the circumstances.​

Re-Entry Permit Considerations

Those overseas must use the “special re-entry permit” (valid up to one year) and return by the original visa or re-entry deadline. Exceeding the period results in loss of status.​

Summary

Even with a “Spouse or Child of Japanese National” visa, an extended overseas stay does not necessarily disadvantage renewal—so long as justified reasons and ongoing marital ties can be demonstrated. Lack of explanation, unclear living situation, or substance-less separation may, however, hinder renewal. Advance preparation and careful documentation are crucial; consult an expert if uncertain.​