Can a Japanese Spouse Be Unemployed?
"I want to apply for a spouse visa, but I'm worried because my Japanese spouse is currently unemployed..." Many people fear that being unemployed automatically leads to a denial, as the Immigration Bureau's screening heavily emphasizes a couple's financial stability. However, the short answer is that it's absolutely possible to get a spouse visa even if the Japanese spouse is unemployed. This article will explain how financial stability is considered in the screening process and highlight key points that can help your case if one spouse is unemployed.
1. What is the "Financial Stability" Required for Screening?
The Immigration Bureau wants to confirm that the couple can cooperate and live a stable life in Japan. This isn't just about looking at the Japanese spouse's current income. The immigration officer focuses on these three key factors.
| Continuity |
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| Is a stable income expected to continue in the future? |
| Support Capability |
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| Is there enough financial power to support all family members, including the foreign spouse? |
| Objective Explanation of Financial Status |
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| Is there a clear reason for the low income or unemployment, along with a concrete plan to compensate for it? |
In short, even if you are temporarily unemployed, you can clear the screening if you can provide sufficient objective evidence to compensate for it.
2. Four Key Points to Emphasize When Unemployed
If the Japanese spouse is unemployed, it's crucial to thoroughly explain and prove the following points with documentation.
Point ①: Savings at the Time of Application
Even without an income, having sufficient savings can prove you can cover immediate living expenses. Submit copies of your bank passbooks or a certificate of balance to show that the couple is not in financial distress.
Point ②: Future Employment Plan
Clearly state the reason for the current unemployment (e.g., caring for a child, actively seeking a new job) and explain exactly how you plan to find work and earn an income in the future. Submitting a resume or documents that show you've already started the job search process can also be effective.
Point ③: Other Sources of Income
| Income of the Foreign Spouse |
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| If the foreign spouse plans to work in Japan or is already working and has an income, provide proof of that. |
| Support from Relatives |
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| If you plan to receive financial assistance from relatives, such as parents or siblings, create and submit a "Letter of Support." Attaching the financial documents of the person providing support will make it even more convincing. |
Point ④: Past History of Stable Income
Even if you are currently unemployed, proving a past history of stable employment and continuous income suggests that you are likely to find a new job and build a stable life again. Submit documents like your past tax withholding statements or tax returns.
The Goal is to Show "Overall Stability"
Spouse visa screening is not based on just one or two documents. The immigration office makes a comprehensive judgment on the "genuineness of the marriage" and the "ability to live a stable life" based on all the submitted documents. While a Japanese spouse being unemployed can be a negative factor, you can significantly increase your chances of approval by providing solid evidence of savings, a future plan, and other sources of income to compensate for it.
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