Japan Spouse Visa

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

Japan spouse visa:
Canada

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 submission.

Main mission

Embassy of Japan in Ottawa; Consulates-General in Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Calgary.

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 recent passport photo (approx. 45x35mm), glued to form.
  • Certificate of Eligibility (original or printout).

Canada-specific documents

  • If not a Canadian citizen: proof of legal status in Canada (PR card or valid work/study permit).
  • Most offices require in-person submission; mail is limited—confirm locally.
  • Visa fee generally waived for Canadian 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

  • Submit in person during visa hours (check each mission's site).
  • Processing ~5 business days; collect passport on assigned date.
  • Proxy pick-up typically allowed with written authorization.

Expert tips

  • Arrive early—most missions are first-come, first-served.
  • Check your consulate's specific checklist before you go.
  • Bring photocopies of key pages (passport bio, COE) to save time.
  • No ticket purchase required—an intended arrival date on the form is sufficient.

Common mistakes

  • Applying to the wrong mission for your province.
  • Missing proof of Canadian status for non-citizens.
  • Submitting an incorrect/low-quality photo.
  • Leaving form fields blank or forgetting to sign.

Translations: English/French documents are fine; translations are seldom needed for COE cases.

Sources