If you are a foreign national who is married to a Japanese citizen, you may be wondering what happens to your permanent resident visa if you get divorced. The answer is that your permanent resident visa will not be revoked.
Permanent Residence Is Not Revoked After Divorce
According to the Japanese Ministry of Justice, a permanent resident visa is a status of residence that allows the holder to live and work in Japan indefinitely. It is granted to foreign nationals who meet certain requirements, such as having lived in Japan for at least ten yearswhich should include 5 years of residence under a work visa or those granted according to the family status (Spouse of Japanese national, Long Term Resident…) , being able to support themselves financially, and having a good moral character,currently having the longest period of stay(5 years in most cases)
Once a foreign national is granted a permanent resident visa, it is not revoked if they get divorced. This is because the permanent resident visa is based on the individual’s qualifications, not on their marital status.
Even Permanent Residents Must File a Change of Address Notification
Even permanent residents who get divorced need to take certain procedures. This is because divorce usually involves a change of address.
In Japan, you must change your address within 14 days of moving. This applies to both Japanese citizens and foreign nationals, including permanent residents and special permanent residents.
To change your address, you will need to go to your local city hall or ward office. You will need to bring the following documents:
- Your current residence card
- Your new residence card (if you have one)
- Your passport
- Proof of your new address (such as a lease agreement or utility bill)
Impact of Divorce on Spouse Visa Eligibility
However, it is important to note that if a foreign national who is married to a Japanese citizen gets divorced, they will no longer be eligible for a spouse visa. A spouse visa is a status of residence that allows the holder to live in Japan with their Japanese spouse. The spouse visa is granted to foreign nationals who are married to a Japanese citizen and are in a genuine and continuing marital relationship.
If a foreign national who is divorced from a Japanese citizen wants to stay in Japan, they will need to apply for a different status of residence, such as a work visa or a student visa.
Conclusion:
If you are a foreign national who is married to a Japanese citizen, you should be aware that your permanent resident visa will not be revoked if you get divorced. However, you will no longer be eligible for a spouse visa.
