International Marriage

When entering into an international marriage in Japan, documents must be filed according to Japanese law. For the foreign national spouse, there are a few documents that are needed. The first is the “No impediment to Marriage” document. This document is given by the foreign national spouse’s embassy. This document states that the foreign national is not already married, or otherwise unable to marry according to the laws of their home country. Some countries do not prepare a “No impediment to marriage” document; in this event contact the foreign national spouse’s local embassy to get information on which documents can be used in its place.

Procedures

1. The international marriage application is submitted before the end of the period of stay (while the current visa is still valid)
2. The change of status application along with the other required documents. Depending on the working situation of the foreign national, the required documents will vary.
3. Place to submit; the Immigration Bureau in the area you are currently living.
4. Processing time: 1 to 3 months