How to Get Married in Japan as a Foreigner: A Step-by-Step Guide

Getting married in Japan as a foreigner can be a unique and fulfilling experience, but it requires understanding the legal requirements and processes involved. Whether you’re planning to marry a Japanese citizen or another foreigner, this comprehensive guide will walk you through each step to ensure a smooth and successful marriage registration in Japan.

1. Confirm Your Eligibility to Marry

Before beginning the marriage process in Japan, it’s essential to confirm that both you and your partner meet the legal requirements for marriage in your respective home countries. This generally includes being of legal age (typically 18 or older) and not currently married to someone else.

2. Obtain a Certificate of No Impediment (CNI)

A Certificate of No Impediment (CNI), also known as an Affidavit of Competency to Marry, is often required for foreigners getting married in Japan. This document certifies that you are legally free to marry. Here’s what you need to know:

• For Foreign Nationals: You’ll need to obtain a CNI from your home country’s embassy or consulate in Japan. The process varies depending on your nationality, so it’s crucial to check the specific requirements with your embassy.

• For Japanese Nationals: Your Japanese partner will need to obtain a family register (戸籍謄本, koseki tōhon) from their local municipal office, which acts as proof of their eligibility to marry.

3. Translate and Notarize Required Documents

Any documents that are not in Japanese, including your CNI, must be translated into Japanese. Some embassies offer translation services, or you can hire a certified translator. Depending on the municipality, you might also need to have the translations notarized.

4. Submit a Marriage Registration (婚姻届, Kon’in Todoke)

The key step in legally getting married in Japan is submitting a marriage registration form (婚姻届, kon’in todoke) at the local municipal office (市役所, shiyakusho). Here’s how to do it:

• Required Documents: Bring your CNI, passport, translated documents, and the completed marriage registration form.

• Witness Requirement: If you’re both foreigners, you might need one or two witnesses to sign the marriage registration form.

• Submission: Once submitted, the office will process your application, and your marriage will be officially registered.

5. Receive Your Japanese Marriage Certificate

After the municipal office processes your marriage registration, you will receive a Japanese marriage certificate (婚姻証明書, kon’in shōmeisho). If you need an official English translation, you can request one from your embassy or a certified translation service.

6. Register Your Marriage with Your Home Country

In some cases, you may need to register your Japanese marriage with your home country. This process varies depending on your nationality, so it’s essential to check with your embassy. Registering your marriage ensures it is recognized by your home country’s legal system.

7. Update Your Legal Documents

Once your marriage is registered, you may need to update your legal documents. This could include changing your visa status, updating your passport, and modifying bank accounts or other legal records.

Important Considerations

• Visa Status: If you’re marrying a Japanese national, you may be eligible to apply for a spouse visa, which allows you to live and work in Japan. If both partners are foreigners, check how marriage might affect your current visa status.

• Legal Recognition Abroad: To ensure your marriage in Japan is recognized in your home country, consult your embassy or legal advisor for specific guidelines.

Useful Links and Resources

For more detailed information and specific requirements, refer to the following resources:

• Japan Guide on Marriage: Comprehensive information on marriage procedures in Japan.

• Your Embassy in Japan: Find contact information for your embassy or consulate in Japan to obtain a CNI and other necessary documents.

• Tokyo Metropolitan Government – Marriage Procedures: Guidelines on marriage registration in Tokyo and other municipalities.

• Japan Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Living Information: Official guidelines on living and marrying in Japan as a foreign national.

By following these steps and consulting the provided resources, you can ensure that your marriage in Japan is legally recognized and successfully registered.