Japan Spouse Visa

Last verified June 12, 2026 against official ISA/MOFA sources

Japan spouse visa:
Australia

Country-specific steps

Country guides cover the parts that depend on your nationality: the documents, legalisations, and consular steps. For some countries this work begins before the COE. For the overall process and the COE itself, start with the main guide.

Processing time at the consulate

About 5 business days after lodgement (allow longer if posting via agent).

Main mission

Embassy of Japan in Canberra; Consulates-General in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth; Consular Office in Cairns.

Where to apply

Apply at the mission with jurisdiction over your residential address — official embassy site .

General documents

  • Valid passport (original; 2 blank pages).
  • Completed and hand-signed Visa Application Form.
  • One passport photo 45x35mm (within 6 months), glued to form.
  • Certificate of Eligibility (original or printout).

Australia-specific documents

  • If not an Australian citizen: current VEVO printout showing status/conditions.
  • Bridging visa holders must secure travel rights (e.g., BVB) before departing Australia.
  • Some missions accept postal applications for remote residents (often via accredited travel agents); confirm locally.
  • Visa fee generally waived for Australian citizens; other nationalities may pay at issuance.
  • Certain nationalities (e.g., Russia/CIS/Ukraine/Georgia): two forms + two photos.

Document authentication

  • No apostille/notarization for standard COE cases.

Submitting your application

  • In person at the mission with jurisdiction (appointments used in some locations).
  • Eligible remote applicants may lodge by post per mission rules.
  • Processing ~5 business days; passport returned in person or by arranged post/agent depending on mission.

Expert tips

  • Print a fresh VEVO check tied to your current passport number.
  • Check whether your mission allows postal lodgement and follow their exact instructions.
  • Glue, don't staple, the photo.
  • Apply 4–6 weeks before travel to avoid school holiday/peak delays.

Common mistakes

  • Applying while on ETA/visitor status (applications usually not accepted from tourists).
  • Using an old VEVO printout or mismatched passport details.
  • Sending postal applications directly to missions that require accredited agents.
  • Stapled photos or incomplete forms.

Translations: English documents are fine; translations rarely needed for COE cases.

Sources