Many people say that marriage is a gamble — and when it comes to international marriage, the stakes can feel even higher. Cultural differences, language barriers, and differing tastes in food are just some of the potential challenges. However, if you and your partner are happy together, an international marriage can be incredibly rewarding and open the door to new cultural experiences.
While international marriages require additional paperwork in Japan, the process is straightforward if you follow the steps outlined below.
Required Documents for International Marriage in Japan
1. Kon-in Todoke (Marriage Notification)
The Kon-in Todoke is the official marriage registration form in Japan. This document must be submitted to a Japanese municipal government office — either where one partner resides or where their Koseki (family register) is kept.
Important: Only this official notification constitutes a legal marriage in Japan. Religious ceremonies or celebrations alone are not legally binding.
- The Kon-in Todoke must be written in Japanese.
- It requires signatures from two witnesses (any adult over 20 years old can act as a witness, regardless of nationality).
2. Additional Required Documents
In addition to the Kon-in Todoke, you will need:
- Proof of identity for both parties (e.g., passport or driver’s license)
- Koseki Tohon (a copy of the Japanese partner’s family register)
- Kon-in Yoken Gubi Shomeisho (Certificate of Legal Capacity to Marry)
The Kon-in Yoken Gubi Shomeisho is issued by the embassy or consulate of the non-Japanese partner’s home country. This document confirms the non-Japanese partner’s legal eligibility to marry under their home country’s law, which may differ from Japanese law. This document confirms their legal eligibility to marry under Japanese law.
If your home country does not issue a Kon-in Yoken Gubi Shomeisho, you may submit an Affidavit of Competency to Marry instead. This sworn statement, made in front of your embassy or consulate in Japan, confirms you are legally free to marry.
Both the Kon-in Yoken Gubi Shomeisho or the affidavit must be translated into Japanese, and the translator’s name must be specified.
3. Kon-in Todoke Juri Shomeisho (Certificate of Acceptance of Marriage Notification)
Once your marriage registration is complete, request a Kon-in Todoke Juri Shomeisho from the municipal office. This certificate is crucial for:
- Validating your marriage in your home country
- Applying for a Spouse Visa in Japan
Is My Japanese Marriage Valid in Other Countries?
While your marriage becomes legally valid in Japan once the Kon-in Todoke is accepted, it may not automatically be recognized in the non-Japanese partner’s home country. To ensure international validity:
- Submit your Kon-in Todoke Juri Shomeisho to your country’s embassy or consulate in Japan.
- Confirm any additional requirements with your home country’s authorities.
Changing Your Surname After Marriage
In Japan, when two Japanese nationals marry, one partner must adopt the other’s surname. However, for international couples, surname changes are optional.
If you wish to change your surname to match your spouse’s, submit a Notification of Surname Change to your local municipal office within six months of your marriage registration.
Applying for a Spouse Visa in Japan
If you are a non-Japanese spouse, you can apply for a Spouse of Japanese National Visa. This visa imposes no restrictions on employment or self-employment, offering significant flexibility.
Spouse Visa Periods
Immigration authorities grant Spouse Visas for either:
- 6 months
- 1 year
- 3 years
- 5 years
Proving a Genuine Marriage
Due to concerns over fake marriages, Japan’s immigration office conducts detailed checks to confirm the authenticity of your relationship. Key aspects they may investigate include:
- How you met and developed your relationship
- The language you communicate in
- Your financial stability (while there’s no official minimum income requirement, an annual household income of ¥2.5 million or more is commonly expected, though this is a general estimate rather than a strict requirement. Immigration authorities consider various factors when assessing financial stability)
Be prepared to provide supporting documents to demonstrate your relationship’s legitimacy.
Permanent Residency After Marriage
After residing in Japan as a Japanese spouse for at least 3 years and maintaining 1 year of continuous residence, you may become eligible to apply for Permanent Residence. For more details, refer to our guide on Permanent Residence in Japan.
Read More: Permanent Residence in Japan
Final Tips for a Smooth Process
- Start gathering your required documents early, especially if your embassy takes time to issue certificates.
- Confirm your home country’s requirements for recognizing your Japanese marriage.
- Consider legal advice for added support, particularly when applying for a Spouse Visa or Permanent Residence.
An international marriage can present unique challenges, but with proper preparation, you can navigate the process smoothly and confidently start your new life in Japan.
