Part 3: Common Issues and Hidden Pitfalls — How to Avoid Rejection When Applying for a Dependent Visa

2025年5月12日 2025年4月30日

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Applying for a Dependent (Family Stay) Visa in Japan may seem straightforward, but many applicants are unexpectedly denied due to issues with documentation, income, or the credibility of their family relationship.
In this article, we’ll break down the typical pitfalls that lead to rejection, and provide practical tips to help you submit a strong, convincing application.

1. What Immigration Officers Actually Look For

Japanese immigration authorities focus on the following key areas when reviewing a Dependent Visa application:

(1) Is the family relationship genuine and legally valid?

Is the marriage or parent-child relationship officially recognized under the law?
For international marriages: Is there evidence of a real, ongoing relationship (e.g., cohabitation, regular communication)?

(2) Is there a stable living foundation in Japan?

Is the sponsor (resident in Japan) employed and financially stable?
Is there a suitable home for the family member(s) to live together?

(3) Is the purpose of stay reasonable and realistic?

Immigration evaluates whether the planned life in Japan is feasible and stable—not just based on the applicant’s wishes, but on objective evidence.

2. Common Reasons for Rejection and How to Prevent Them

Case 1: Unstable income or unemployment

Applications may be rejected if the sponsor has no recent income records, or has only been employed for a short time.
This is especially common for freelancers or new business owners.

Solution:

Submit both tax certificates and supplementary proof, such as contracts, recent invoices, or a business income statement
Include a letter explaining any savings, financial support, or anticipated income

Case 2: Insufficient proof of marital or family relationship

Some countries issue marriage or birth certificates that look informal or lack official stamps, raising questions about authenticity.
Marriages formed shortly before applying for a visa are also often scrutinized.

Solution:

Submit a detailed explanation letter (relationship timeline), from first meeting to marriage
Provide supporting documents such as chat logs, photos, call history, and travel records

Case 3: Document errors or missing information

Many applications are delayed or denied due to simple form mistakes—misspelled names, incorrect birthdates, or missing signatures.

Solution:

Carefully match all information with the passport and other official records
Have a third party (preferably a certified immigration specialist) review your documents

Case 4: Vague or unrealistic housing plans

If you are inviting your spouse or children to live in a tiny one-room apartment, immigration may question the feasibility of cohabitation.

Solution:

Submit a floor plan or lease contract showing adequate space
If you plan to move to a larger unit, attach an explanation letter with planned arrangements

3. If Your Application Is Denied

A visa denial can be shocking, but it is not the end of the road.
You can reapply after correcting the identified issues.

The Notice of Denial will state the general reason (e.g., insufficient income, relationship doubts)
Address the issue directly, provide clarifying documents or explanation letters, and reapply with care
In more complex cases, a legal statement or additional supporting materials may be necessary

Tip: Reapplications after denial require a strategic approach. Consultation with a professional is highly recommended.

4. Practical Advice from a Legal Expert (Gyoseishoshi)

Don’t assume “just submitting the documents” is enough.
Immigration may deny the application outright if any part seems questionable, even if they don’t ask for additional info.
The clarity, consistency, and credibility of your paperwork matters as much as the documents themselves.

Final Thoughts: How to Stay on the Safe Side

Visa applications aren’t just about submitting forms—they’re about building a coherent, credible narrative backed by documentation.
By avoiding the common pitfalls outlined here, and preparing your case with clarity and logic, you dramatically increase your chances of success.

In Part 4, we’ll cover important issues after visa approval, including: