Japan Spouse Visa Statement of Reasons (Riyusho) Guide
Japan Spouse Visa Statement of Reasons (Riyusho): Why It Matters
Is a Statement of Reasons Necessary for a Japanese Spouse Visa?
A Statement of Reasons (Riyusho), also known as a Letter of Explanation, is one of the most important supporting documents in a Japanese spouse visa application.
Although it is not uniformly listed as a mandatory document by Japan’s Immigration Services Agency, we consider it practically essential in many spouse visa cases.
Every international couple has different circumstances. For example:
- Certain official documents cannot be obtained.
- The couple relies on foreign pension income or overseas assets.
- One spouse has recently started a new job and has limited income documentation.
- The couple is temporarily living separately.
- The relationship before marriage was relatively short.
- Previous marriages or divorces require explanation.
- The couple’s intended residence in Japan has not yet been finalized.
Furthermore, the official spouse visa questionnaire（質問書） provides limited space for detailed explanations. A separate Statement of Reasons can therefore help immigration authorities understand the relevant circumstances.
Photographs of the couple and records of communication through messaging applications or smartphones may also serve as important supporting evidence.
What Should Be Included in a Spouse Visa Statement of Reasons?
A Statement of Reasons should generally be prepared in Japanese. If submitted in another language, a Japanese translation must be attached.
The statement should concisely explain any circumstances requiring clarification, such as missing documents, financial arrangements, short courtships, previous divorces, or separate living arrangements.
Where appropriate, the explanations should be supported by objective evidence.
A persuasive Statement of Reasons should focus on relevant facts, legal requirements, and supporting documentation rather than emotional appeals.
Immigration examiners are primarily concerned with whether:
- The marriage is genuine and continuing.
- The application satisfies the relevant immigration requirements.
- The couple has sufficient financial resources to maintain their life in Japan.
- Any unusual circumstances have been reasonably explained.
Unnecessarily lengthy or emotional statements may obscure the information that immigration authorities need to assess.
Should You Hire a Professional to Prepare the Statement?
Preparing a Statement of Reasons requires an understanding of the issues relevant to Japanese immigration examinations.
An immigration professional can identify the matters that require explanation, exclude unnecessary information, and organize supporting evidence.
At Continental Immigration Administrative Scrivener Corporation, we prepare individualized Statements of Reasons based on each couple’s marital history, financial circumstances, and immigration requirements.
Drawing on our experience in immigration procedures and financial analysis, we seek to present clear, concise, and evidence-based explanations to Japan’s Immigration Services Agency.
As your Trusted Advisor, we assist international couples with spouse visa applications, including the preparation of Statements of Reasons and supporting documentation.
https://en.continental-immigration.com/
Professional
Masakazu Murai
18 years’ experience in Investment Banking at Mitsubishi UFJ Morgan Stanley (JV, MUFG Bank and Morgan Stanley). He had provided financial advisory more than 500 entrepreneurs and senior management.
During his tenure, he worked as an employee union executive committee member in promoting diversity, including the active participation of foreigners and women in the office, and engaged in activities to improve the working environment. He specializes in financial consulting and VISA/PR consulting.
Gyoseishoshi Immigration Lawyer, 東京都行政書士会 港支部 副支部長
CMA(Japanese financial analyst license)
CFP (Certified Financial Planner)
Master of Business Administration in Entrepreneurship
