Inviting family members

When International Student or International Scholar invites family members to stay in Japan for more than 3 months, the family members are required to obtain “Dependent Visa” before coming to Japan. The certificate of eligibility for status of residence (CESR) is required for the visa application, then the international student or international scholar staying in Japan needs to apply for his/her family’s CESR to a regional immigration bureau. Although the time required for issuance of the certification will depend on their personal circumstances, CESR is usually issued in about 2 to 4 weeks after the application form is submitted. After the CESR is issued, send it to the family so that they can attach it when they apply for a Dependent Visa at the Japanese embassy or consulate, which will significantly shorten the time before the visa is issued. If they apply for the Dependent Visa without the CESR, it may take 2-3 months.

When the family stays in Japan less than 3 months, they can visit Japan with the Temporary Visitor Visa. If their passport is issued by the countries and regions for Visa Exemptions, they do not have to obtain the temporary visitor visa before coming to Japan.

*You can apply for issuing CESR online. For details, please check the website of the Immigration Bureau.

Required Documents

1. Application for Certificate of Eligibility for Status of Residence (Dependent)（The application form is available at the Immigration Bureau, or it can be downloaded from the Ministry of Justice homepage. The Support Office also provides it.）
2. Copy of the passport
3. ID photo （4cm × 3cm）
4. Documents certifying the personal relationship between the person concerned and the person who is to support him or her, such as a copy of marriage certificate or birth certificate.
5. Documents regarding the Supporter (International student / International scholar)
   (1) Supporter’s passport copy
   (2) A copy of Supporter’s residence card (front and back)
   (3) Supporter’s Certificate of employment or Student registration certificate
   (4) Document certifying that you have the means to pay for all the expenses incurred during your stay in Japan, such as Bank statement, Certificate of Scholarship etc.
   *If the Supporter has an income in Japan, Certificate of Income/Taxation issued by the municipal office is also required. Gross income and tax payment has to be included.
6. Return-mail envelope with stamp

*The Immigration Bureau may require other additional documents for the application.