Quick answer
The Dependent (family stay) visa in Japan allows spouses and children of eligible foreign residents to live together in Japan. The validity is up to 5 years [1]. Key documents include a valid passport, visa application form, photograph, and a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) [1] [4] . Applicants may also apply without a COE, but this requires more documentation and may take several months . Additional documents may be required depending on nationality (e.g., for Chinese nationals: family register and temporary residence permit; for Bangladeshi nationals: marriage/family certificates and spouse documents) [1] -.
Key facts
| Visa validity | Up to 5 years (term individually designated by the Minister of Justice)[1] |
| Required core documents | Valid passport, visa application form (two copies for Russia/CIS/Georgia), one photograph (two for Russia/CIS/Georgia), Certificate of Eligibility (original or copy; electronic COE can be printed)[1] |
| Certificate of Eligibility (COE) | A COE is issued by regional immigration authorities and certifies that the applicant meets landing conditions. It speeds up visa processing but does not guarantee visa issuance. A proxy in Japan can apply.[3][4] |
| Additional documents for Chinese nationals | Copy of Chinese Family Register, Temporary Residence Permit or Residence Certificate (if not in jurisdiction), and a questionnaire.[1] |
Requirements
Requirements in detail
Completed application form for dependent visa.
Valid passport with photocopy of the personal information page.
Previous passport if available.
One photo of size 2 inch x 1.4 inch (Japan visa standard).
Certificate issued by Japanese Immigration Bureau (obtained by sponsor in Japan).
Special Marriage Certificate, Hindu/Christian/Buddhist Marriage Registration, or equivalent.
Certificate issued by governmental institute from Bangladesh (if any).
Copy of passport of spouse who resides in Japan, including all visa pages.
Copy of Zairyu Card (residence card) of the guarantor or spouse in Japan.
Evidence of planned travel to Japan (flight itinerary).
Documents you'll need
General
- Valid passport (and photocopy if required by local embassy/consulate) [1]
- One visa application form (two for nationals of Russia, CIS countries or Georgia) [1]
- One photograph (2 inch x 1.4 inch; two for Russia/CIS/Georgia) [1]
- Certificate of Eligibility (original or copy; electronic version can be printed) [1]
Additional for Bangladesh
- Old passport (if any)
- Special marriage certificate (Hindu/Christian/Buddhist) or marriage registration document
- Family certificate issued by governmental institute from Bangladesh (if any)
- Passport copy of spouse who is in Japan (including all visa pages)
- Zairyu Card copy of guarantor/spouse
Additional for Chinese nationals
- For Chinese nationals: Copy of Chinese Family Register, Temporary Residence Permit or Residence Certificate (if not in jurisdiction), and a questionnaire [1]
This list adjusts automatically based on your nationality and category.
How to apply
- 1
Obtain a Certificate of Eligibility (COE): Your supporter in Japan (or a proxy such as an employee of the inviting organization or a relative) applies to the regional immigration authority for a COE. This is recommended to speed up the visa process [4] .
- 2
Gather required documents: Prepare your passport, visa application form, photograph, COE, and any additional documents specific to your nationality (see Documents section) [1] -.
- 3
Submit the visa application: Apply at the Japanese embassy or consulate in your country of residence. Check the specific embassy website for appointment procedures and any additional forms [1] [2].
- 4
Wait for processing: Standard processing with COE is relatively quick. Without a COE, processing can take several months .
- 5
Receive visa and travel to Japan: Once issued, the visa is valid for up to 5 years. You must present the visa and COE (if not already done) at landing inspection [1].
Frequently asked questions
What is a Certificate of Eligibility (COE)?
A COE is a document issued by a regional immigration authority in Japan confirming that a foreign national meets the conditions for landing. It is not a visa but facilitates smoother visa and landing procedures [3] [4].
Can I apply for the Dependent visa without a COE?
Yes, but you will need to submit a large amount of verification documents and processing may take several months. It is strongly recommended to obtain a COE first .
What additional documents do Chinese nationals need?
Chinese nationals must submit a copy of the Chinese Family Register, a Temporary Residence Permit or Residence Certificate (if not in the embassy's jurisdiction), and a questionnaire [1].
How long is the Dependent visa valid?
The period of stay is up to 5 years, as individually designated by the Minister of Justice [1].
Does a COE guarantee visa issuance?
No. A COE does not guarantee that a visa will be issued. The embassy/consulate makes the final decision .
Related visas
Sources
One numbered entry per specific claim — several entries may point to the same underlying document, each with its own locator.
- [1]
Visa validity and required documents from MOFA
Primary source · Last verified: Jul 23, 2026Verified — deep-linked - [2]
Additional documents checklist from VFS Bangladesh
VFS Global - Dependent Visa Checklist (Bangladesh) · Last verified: Jul 23, 2026Verified — deep-linkedApplies to applicants from Bangladesh; other nationalities may have different requirements
- [3]
Eligibility for Dependent status per application form
Certificate of Eligibility Application Form (MOJ) · Last verified: Jul 23, 2026Verified — deep-linkedDependent visa is for spouse or child of a person with certain residence statuses
- [4]
COE definition and application process
Primary source · Last verified: Jul 23, 2026Verified — deep-linked - [5]
Special provisions for Chinese nationals
Primary source · Last verified: Jul 23, 2026Verified — deep-linkedChinese nationals must submit additional documents
This page reflects Japan's officially published requirements as of the dates above. It is not legal advice, and final approval is solely at the discretion of Japan's immigration authorities. For a case-specific compliance check against your own documents, try VisaBook free.