Family / spouse for British citizens travelling to Japan
Family visits may use the 90-day exemption. Spouses and dependants living in Japan need appropriate visas.
For a full British citizen passport. Other British passport types can follow a different rule.
Key facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Who it's for | Visiting relatives or joining a Japanese family member. · Japan MFA: long-term visas (opens in a new tab) |
| Maximum stay | 90 days for visits; spouse visas for long-term stay. · Japan MFA: long-term visas (opens in a new tab) |
| Cost | Dependent and spouse visa fees are on the Embassy of Japan in the UK visa fees page (opens in a new tab). · Japan MFA: long-term visas (opens in a new tab) |
| Processing time | Long-term family visas: allow time for Certificate of Eligibility and embassy processing (about 5 working days once complete). · Japan MFA: long-term visas (opens in a new tab) |
| How to apply | Japanese embassy for dependent or spouse visas. · Japan MFA: long-term visas (opens in a new tab) |
Each fact above is linked to the authority that sets the rule. Entry Visa Guide does not take applications.
Apply only on the government website linked above. This site does not issue visas or travel authorisations and does not take applications. Other websites charge their own service fee on top of any government charge.
How to apply
- For holidays, travel under the exemption.
- For marriage or relocation, apply for spouse or dependent visa.
- Prepare relationship evidence for spouse cases.
FAQ
Can I marry on landing permission?
Short visits may be possible; living in Japan needs the correct visa.
Does a Japanese spouse waive visas?
Long-term stay still needs immigration approval.
Sources
- GOV.UK: Japan entry requirements (opens in a new tab)
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan: exemption of visa (short-term stay) (opens in a new tab)
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan: visa overview (opens in a new tab)
Independent guide, not legal advice. Entry Visa Guide is an independent information site. It is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or run by any government or public authority. Always check official sources before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Report an error.