For families with different nationalities or countries of residence, we organize the notifications, certificates and immigration procedures needed in Japan and the other country.
International marriage procedures
An international marriage may require registration or reporting in the other country as well as notification to a Japanese municipality. Documents such as certificates of legal capacity to marry, birth and nationality certificates, passports and translations vary by nationality and receiving authority.
Services we provide
- Organize documents and filing steps for marriage in Japan
- Report an overseas marriage to Japanese authorities
- Explain how to obtain certificates of legal capacity to marry
- Translate and authenticate foreign documents
- Apply for spouse-of-Japanese, spouse-of-permanent-resident and Dependent residence statuses
- Organize documents concerning birth, recognition of parentage, adoption, names and nationality
- Help prepare agreements and notarized deeds for divorce by agreement
- Check post-divorce residence status and notifications
Marriage and residence status are separate procedures
A legally valid marriage does not automatically confer residence status. A Certificate of Eligibility or change-of-status application must establish the genuine relationship, its history, living arrangements and financial support. Planning marriage registration and immigration filings together is important.
Checks for an international divorce
We identify the applicable law, competent authorities and steps needed for recognition in the other country. Disputes over asset division, compensation, parental authority, custody, child support or contact require an attorney.
Residence procedures after divorce
For people with spouse-based residence status, we consider divorce or bereavement notifications and a possible status change based on future activities. Options depend on employment, child care and residence history, so please check early rather than wait until your stay expires.
Case experience
A Chinese client needed to prove a divorce finalized in Japan around 20 years earlier for procedures in China. We carefully investigated the original receiving authority and records and obtained a certificate of acceptance of the divorce notification. Even where years have passed or the address or authority is unclear, we organize the available clues and identify how to request the evidence.
Case examples are anonymized to protect privacy. Outcomes depend on individual circumstances.
Consultation process
- Confirm the nationalities and residences of you, your spouse and children
- Identify the intended procedures, countries and receiving authorities
- Collect, translate and authenticate documents
- Prepare notifications, agreements and residence application documents
- Explain follow-up reporting overseas and residence administration
Eligibility, required documents and review periods vary by nationality, receiving authority and circumstances. We assess your situation at the initial consultation and explain the appropriate approach.
Tell us about your situation
You are welcome to contact us even if you are unsure where to begin. We help organize the procedures, priorities and next steps.