Dependent Visa Japan: Rules for Working, Studying, and Renewal

The Dependent Visa（家族滞在ビザ – kazoku taizai biza） is one of the most common residence statuses for foreign families in Japan. It allows spouses and children of foreign workers or students to live together in Japan—but it comes with strict rules, especially regarding work and income.

Many dependents unintentionally violate visa conditions simply because the rules are unclear.

This guide explains exactly what you can and cannot do on a dependent visa in Japan, including:

• Working rules and limits

• Studying options

• Renewal requirements

• Common pitfalls to avoid

What Is a Dependent Visa in Japan?

A Dependent Visa allows:

• A spouse

• Children

to live in Japan as dependents of a primary visa holder, such as someone on a:

• Work visa（就労ビザ – shūrō biza）

• Student visa（留学ビザ – ryūgaku biza）

The visa is tied directly to the sponsor’s status and income.

Who Is Eligible for a Dependent Visa?

You may qualify if:

• Your sponsor has a valid long-term residence status

• You are legally married (de facto marriages usually not accepted)

• The sponsor earns enough to financially support you

Children must generally be:

• Under 18 (or dependent students)

Can You Work on a Dependent Visa?

Short Answer: Yes, but only with permission

To work legally, you must obtain:

Permission to Engage in Activity Other Than That Permitted
（資格外活動許可 – shikakugai katsudō kyoka）

Part-Time Work Limit

Once approved:

• ⏰ Maximum 28 hours per week

• Applies to all jobs combined

• Exceeding this is a visa violation

During long school vacations, dependents of students may work more, but only if explicitly permitted.

Jobs You Cannot Do

Even with permission, you cannot work in adult or entertainment businesses, including:

• Host/hostess clubs

• Adult video-related work

• Certain nightlife establishments

Studying on a Dependent Visa

Yes—you can study freely.

Allowed examples:

• Japanese language schools

• Universities

• Vocational schools

• Online programs

However:

• Full-time students sometimes switch to a Student Visa（留学ビザ – ryūgaku biza） for better benefits

• Student visas allow easier part-time work approval

Income Restrictions for Dependents

Important rule:

• You cannot earn more than your sponsor

If immigration believes you are financially independent:

• Renewal may be rejected

• Visa status may be questioned

This is a common reason for dependent visa problems.

How Long Is a Dependent Visa Valid?

Typical validity:

• 6 months

• 1 year

• 3 years

• 5 years (rare)

Your visa period cannot exceed your sponsor’s Period of Stay（在留期間 – zairyū kikan）.

Dependent Visa Renewal in Japan

When to Apply

You can apply:

• Up to 3 months before expiration

Apply early—processing can take several weeks.

Required Documents (General)

Common documents include:

• Application for Extension of Period of Stay
  （在留期間更新許可申請 – zairyū kikan kōshin kyoka shinsei）

• Passport

• Residence Card（在留カード – zairyū kādo）

• Sponsor’s Residence Card & Passport copy

• Marriage certificate / Birth certificate

• Certificate of Employment（在職証明書 – zaishoku shōmeisho）

• Income certificate（源泉徴収票 – gensen chōshūhyō）

• Tax certificate（課税証明書 – kazei shōmeisho）

Additional documents may be requested.

Common Reasons for Renewal Rejection

• Sponsor’s income decreased

• Dependent exceeded work hours

• Undeclared employment

• Sponsor lost job or changed visa

• Marriage issues (for spouses)

Renewals are evaluated strictly but fairly.

Can You Change from Dependent Visa to Work Visa?

Yes, if:

• You find a qualifying job

• The job matches a valid work visa category

• Your education and experience meet requirements

You must apply for:
Change of Status of Residence
（在留資格変更許可 – zairyū shikaku henkō kyoka）

This is common for spouses who later begin full-time careers.

Important Tips for Dependents

✔ Always track your weekly work hours
✔ Keep income below sponsor’s income
✔ Report sponsor job changes
✔ Renew early
✔ Keep copies of all permissions

Final Thoughts

The dependent visa in Japan offers flexibility—but only if you understand and respect its limits.

Most problems arise not from bad intentions, but from lack of information. By following the rules for work, study, and renewal, you can live comfortably in Japan without risking your status.

Related GaijinBlog Articles

• Can You Work Freelance on a Dependent Visa in Japan?

• How to Change from Dependent Visa to Permanent Residency