Introduction

When a foreign family resides in Japan under a Long-Term Resident visa, the loss of a spouse’s job can raise serious concerns. However, visa status is judged primarily based on the household’s financial stability and the continuity of family life in Japan, not on one person’s employment status. This article explains how to present household income effectively to immigration authorities, referencing official information from the Immigration Services Agency (ISA) and the Ministry of Justice.

Understanding the Long-Term Resident Visa

The Long-Term Resident visa allows foreign nationals to reside and work in Japan based on certain personal backgrounds or circumstances. Although employment is unrestricted, financial stability remains an important condition for visa renewal or permanent residency applications. According to ISA’s official Q&A on Permanent Residency, the focus is on whether the applicant can maintain a stable life in Japan.​

If Your Spouse Becomes Unemployed

If your spouse, the main income earner, becomes unemployed, this does not automatically lead to visa cancellation. The ISA considers factors such as:

• Whether the unemployment is temporary or long-term
• The household’s total ability to maintain living expenses
• The presence of other income earners or savings
• Whether active job-seeking activities are being conducted

As long as the family can demonstrate financial independence through savings, salary from another family member, or strong job prospects, visa renewal may still be approved.​

How to Present Household Income

When renewing a Long-Term Resident visa, demonstrating household-level financial stability is crucial. Prepare documentation such as:

• Employment certificates and payslips of working family members
• Bank statements showing available savings
• Tax certificates and income records
• Residence certificates listing all household members
• Proof of job-seeking activities (Hello Work registration, for instance)

These materials help show that, despite temporary unemployment, the household can sustain daily living.

Case Example

For instance, if the husband becomes unemployed while the wife works part-time under a Long-Term Resident visa with ¥1,500,000 in savings, renewal is still possible. Submit:

• Wife’s employment and income statements
• Bank savings certificate
• Husband’s job-seeking documents
• Household tax certificates

This combination supports continuity and financial reliability.

Summary

A spouse’s job loss alone does not automatically threaten a Long-Term Resident visa. What truly matters is household stability. Clearly explaining the household’s economic and living situation with supporting documents helps ensure a smooth renewal process.