Introduction

When foreign nationals working in Japan wish to bring their family members, obtaining a “Dependent” visa (Status of Residence: Dependent) is essential. However, many worry about how non-regular employment or a recent job change might affect the screening process. This article explains, based on official information from the Ministry of Justice and other public sources, how employment type and timing of job changes impact the screening for a Dependent visa, and what countermeasures are effective.

Basic Requirements for a “Dependent” Visa

A “Dependent” visa allows the spouse or child of a foreign national residing in Japan with a work or student status to live together in Japan. The main requirements are as follows:

• The sponsor (the person inviting family) must have a valid status of residence.
• The applicant must be a spouse or child (parents are not eligible).
• The sponsor must have sufficient financial means to support the family.
• The family must have a stable living base in Japan.

Impact of Employment Type on Screening

Difference Between Regular and Non-Regular Employment

The most important factor in screening is the sponsor’s “ability to support” the family financially. Regular employment (full-time) is considered advantageous due to stable income. However, even with non-regular employment (contract, dispatch, part-time, etc.), if income is stable, application is possible.

Points to Note for Non-Regular Employment

• Submission of documents proving income stability, such as employment contracts, pay slips, and tax certificates, is required.
• Enrollment in social insurance is also a key point in screening.
• It is important to objectively demonstrate that living expenses are sufficiently covered.

Is Application Possible Right After Changing Jobs?

It is possible to apply for a Dependent visa immediately after changing jobs. The screening will check the employment conditions and expected income at the new workplace. If you can submit documents such as an employment contract or notice of working conditions, approval is often granted even right after a job change.

Points to Note Right After Changing Jobs

• Documents showing stable employment at the new workplace are required.
• If income is unstable or the employment period is extremely short, additional documents or explanations may be requested.
• If the sponsor’s status of residence has just been renewed, employment stability will also be reviewed.

Example Case

Example: Mr. A (male in his 30s, working at an IT company) changed jobs to a new company as a contract employee and wanted to bring his wife and child to Japan immediately. He submitted his new employment contract, pay slips, and proof of social insurance enrollment, explaining that he could sufficiently support his family. As a result, the Dependent visa was granted.

As shown, even with non-regular employment or right after changing jobs, obtaining a Dependent visa is fully possible if you prepare the necessary documents and prove income stability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Can I obtain a Dependent visa with a part-time or temporary job?

A. It is possible, but you must prove that your income is sufficient to support your family. Screening tends to be stricter.

Q2. Is it okay to apply immediately after changing jobs?

A. Basically, yes, but you need documents showing employment conditions and income stability at the new workplace.

Q3. What documents are required?

A. Employment contract, pay slips, tax certificates, proof of social insurance enrollment, residence certificate, and documents proving family relationship (such as family register or marriage certificate) are required.

Countermeasures for Successful Screening

• Prepare documents that clearly show income stability.
• Prove enrollment in social insurance, regardless of employment type.
• Submit bank balance certificates if necessary.
• Fill out application forms accurately and carefully.

Conclusion

Even with non-regular employment or right after changing jobs, it is possible to obtain a Dependent visa. The most important factors in screening are the sponsor’s income stability and secure living base. Regardless of employment type, if you prepare the necessary documents and provide clear explanations, your chances of approval are high. If you are unsure, it is recommended to consult a specialist.