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In Parts 1 through 4 of this series, we explored the essentials of obtaining, renewing, and changing a Dependent Visa, along with common pitfalls to avoid.
In this optional final part, we present answers to frequently asked questions (Q&A) and real-world case studies from actual applications.
These practical insights, drawn from daily administrative practice, can help you better prepare for your own application process.

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❓ Common Questions & Answers (Q&A)

Q1. My sponsoring spouse has lost their job. Can we still renew the visa?

A. If the main sponsor has no income at the time of renewal, the visa may be rejected.
However, if the unemployment is temporary, submitting a written explanation, proof of job-hunting, savings certificates, or support from family may help support your case.

✅ Early consultation with an expert can increase your chances by helping prepare the right documents.

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Q2. Our child is not attending school. Will this affect the visa renewal?

A. Yes, it may. For children of compulsory school age, non-attendance can raise a red flag.
Immigration may question whether the child is truly being supported in Japan.

If there are valid reasons (such as illness or school refusal), provide documentation such as a doctor’s note or a letter of explanation.

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Q3. Can I stay in Japan on a Dependent Visa after divorce?

A. In principle, the Dependent Visa becomes invalid if the legal relationship ends.
However, in certain cases—such as having children born in Japan or strong ties to the country—you may be eligible to change to another status, like:

• Long-Term Resident
• Spouse of a Japanese National (if remarried)
• Designated Activities (for special cases)

Consult with a specialist to assess your options.

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📚 Case Studies from Practice

Case 1: Freelancer Status Led to Near Rejection at Renewal

A foreign spouse switched from full-time employment to freelancing.
At renewal, immigration questioned the stability of the sponsor’s income and initially denied the application.

Our office assisted with the submission of income contracts, tax documents, and a letter explaining freelance stability.
→ The application was approved upon re-submission.

Key Takeaway: Freelancers can renew if they clearly prove income stability and continuity.

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Case 2: Child Graduated High School but Didn't Change Visa Type

A teenager with a Dependent Visa graduated high school and entered university.
The family didn’t realize they needed to change to a Student Visa, and immigration flagged this as improper status of residence.

We helped prepare a change of status application to “Student” with supporting documents.
→ Approved successfully with no penalties.

Key Takeaway: At age 18 and after graduation, a Dependent Visa is no longer appropriate for continued studies.

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🧭 Final Thoughts: Customize Your Strategy Based on Your Situation

Dependent Visa cases vary greatly depending on:

• Family composition
• Employment or income of the sponsor
• Educational status of children
• Changes like divorce, job loss, or graduation

Even minor changes in family or employment can trigger complications if not properly documented.
Tailored preparation and expert advice can prevent unnecessary rejections.

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✅ Ready for the Next Step?

Through this series, we’ve aimed to help you understand the life cycle of the Dependent Visa.
If you’re preparing for an application—or even just feeling uncertain about how changes in your life may affect your visa status—don’t hesitate to reach out.

Even small questions like:

• “Will this affect our renewal?”
• “Can I work part-time?”
• “Do I need to change visa status now?”

…are worth discussing before it becomes a problem.