“I want to show my parents my life in Japan.” “I want to travel around Japan with my relatives.”
For many foreign workers in Japan, reuniting with family is a top priority. Especially with the expanding opportunities for the Specified Skilled Worker (SSW) No. 2, bringing family members to Japan is becoming a more realistic goal.
However, when it comes to paperwork, you might wonder, “What documents do I need?” or “Can I do this by myself?”
As an Administrative Scrivener (Gyoseishoshi) specializing in immigration, I will explain the key points to ensure a successful “Short-term Stay Visa (Visiting Relatives)” application.
⚠️ Important Note: What Kind of Visa is This?
First and foremost, this article is about the “Short-term Stay Visa” for visiting relatives or friends for a short period (up to 90 days).
It is NOT the “Dependent Visa” for living together long-term. If you want to invite your parents for a few weeks to see your workplace and life in Japan, this guide is for you.
1. Step 1: Check the Rules at Your Local Japanese Embassy
While general requirements are listed on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website, detailed rules vary depending on the country.
For example, in the Philippines, you cannot submit documents directly to the Embassy. You must make an appointment and submit them through a designated “Visa Application Center” (VFS Global). The first step is always to check the latest procedures on the website of the Japanese Embassy in your relative’s home country.
Embassy of Japan Website (Link)
2. Professional Advice: Why I Recommend a “Single-entry Visa” First
There are two types of visitor visas: “Single-entry” (one-time visit) and “Multiple-entry” (multiple visits within the validity period). For citizens of the Philippines, Indonesia, and Vietnam, specific criteria regarding travel history and financial stability must be met for a Multiple-entry visa.
Based on my professional experience, I have one piece of advice: “Take the steady first step with a Single-entry visa.”
You Might Get a Single-entry Visa Anyway
Even if you apply for a Multiple-entry visa, it doesn’t guarantee you will get one. The Embassy may decide that while you don’t meet the Multiple-entry criteria, they can grant a Single-entry visa for a one-time visit.
Building Trust is the Real Shortcut
If you aim too high and your application is “Rejected,” you will be banned from re-applying for 6 months. This will delay your family reunion significantly.
By starting with a Single-entry visa, you build a “record of trust” by showing that your family followed the rules and returned home on time. This also proves your “stable financial capability” to the authorities. Taking this steady first step is, in fact, the true shortcut to a future where you can see your family whenever you wish.
3. The “Reason for Invitation” Needs More Than Just a Sentence
The most critical document you prepare in Japan is the “Reason for Invitation.” Simply writing “To visit relatives” is often not enough. (Embassies in countries like the Philippines are particularly strict about proving relationships).
It is essential to explain “Why now?” and “What exactly will you do in Japan?” by attaching a detailed explanation on a separate sheet to increase the approval rate.
The actual submission will be in Japanese.↓
Administrative Scrivener Office Kirin: Supporting Your Family Reunion
For those working hard in Japan, preparing complex documents and creating an “Itinerary” without contradictions can be exhausting and time-consuming.
As a professional Administrative Scrivener, I will prepare these documents for you from an expert’s perspective.
【Service Fees】
- Document Preparation Fee: ¥35,000 (plus tax)
- Additional Fee: ¥3,500 (plus tax) per person from the second person onwards.
- Actual Costs: Extra (EMS shipping, etc.)
- We will inform you in advance if additional special documents are required.
【Refund Policy for Your Peace of Mind】
Fees are invoiced when the documents are approximately 80% complete. In the unlikely event that the visa is rejected, we will refund ¥20,000. This is our commitment to minimizing your risk and working together for the best outcome.
Contact Us for a Consultation
Make your family reunion a reality. Based in Kumamoto, we support clients nationwide via online consultations. Please feel free to reach out.
Our Website Inquiry Form:[Contact Form – Certified Administrative Scrivener Kirin]
(https://office-kirin.com/）
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