By Sandeep Chaudhary
How to Apply for Japan Dependent Visa from Nepal (Spouse/Child)

A Japan Dependent Visa allows the spouse or child of a foreign national legally residing in Japan (under work, student, or long-term residence status) to live with them during their stay. This visa falls under the “long-term stay” category and is different from a short-term family visit visa. It is ideal for Nepali citizens whose husband, wife, or parent already holds a valid Japanese visa and wishes to bring their family for dependent residence. The process requires two stages — one in Japan (by the sponsor) and the other in Nepal (by the applicant).
Step 1: Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from Japan
The most important step in the dependent visa process is obtaining a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from Japan. The dependent’s sponsor — your husband, wife, or parent — must apply for this document at the Japanese Immigration Bureau in their local prefecture. The sponsor must hold a valid visa (e.g., Engineer, Skilled Labor, Student, Researcher) and demonstrate enough financial stability to support dependents. For this, they must submit income/tax certificates, bank statements, proof of residence, and relationship documents (marriage or birth certificate). Once the immigration office approves the COE, it is sent to Nepal (either as an original or a clear copy) for submission at the embassy or VFS. This certificate serves as pre-approval for the visa and confirms that the applicant meets Japan’s entry criteria.
Step 2: Preparing Documents in Nepal
After receiving the COE, the applicant in Nepal must collect and prepare all required documents for submission. These include a valid passport with at least two blank pages, a visa application form (completed and signed in English or Japanese), a recent photo (45×35 mm, white background), and the original COE with a photocopy. The applicant must also submit relationship documents — such as a marriage certificate (for a spouse) or a birth certificate (for a child). Additional financial and sponsor-related documents are needed, including a copy of the sponsor’s residence card or visa, income/tax certificates, employment letter, and proof of accommodation in Japan. If the sponsor is a Japanese citizen or permanent resident, they should also provide a Family Register (Koseki Tohon). All Nepali documents must be officially translated into English or Japanese, and names, dates, and details must be consistent across all records.
Step 3: Submitting the Visa Application
Applicants must submit the completed file at the VFS Japan Visa Application Centre located at Chhaya Center, Thamel, Kathmandu. It is mandatory to book an appointment in advance and carry original documents along with photocopies. At submission, you will pay the visa fee and VFS service charge in cash. The VFS staff will verify the documents and forward your file to the Embassy of Japan for review. If additional information is required, you may be asked to provide clarification or attend a short interview.
Step 4: Processing and Visa Decision
The processing time for a Japan Dependent Visa typically ranges from 5 to 7 working days, although it may take longer depending on document verification and embassy workload. Once approved, your passport will be stamped with the Dependent Visa sticker, allowing you to enter Japan and reside with your family.
Step 5: After Arrival in Japan
Upon arrival, Japanese Immigration will issue a Residence Card at major airports like Narita, Haneda, or Kansai. If you enter via smaller airports, you must register your address at your local municipal office within 14 days. Dependents usually cannot work full-time under this visa, but you can apply for permission to engage in activities other than permitted under status for part-time work (up to 28 hours/week). It is important to maintain valid residency, renew your visa before expiration, and comply with all Japanese immigration laws.
Professional Guidance from Yatra for Fun Pvt. Ltd.
For smooth, error-free processing, Yatra for Fun Pvt. Ltd., located in Koteshwor-32, Kathmandu, offers complete visa assistance for Japan Dependent, Work, Student, and Family Visit visas. The agency provides document preparation, translation, verification, invitation coordination, and COE guidance through experienced consultants. With expertise in visa processing for over 70 countries, Yatra for Fun ensures that your Japan dependent visa application meets embassy standards for approval.
Contact Yatra for Fun Pvt. Ltd. for Japan Visa Assistance:
Office Address: Koteshwor-32, Kathmandu, Nepal
Call / WhatsApp / Viber: +977 9802348957 or +977 9708072951
Website: www.yatraforfun.com
Email: [email protected]
Business Hours: Sunday to Friday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM