Can we use joint bank statements if we're not married?

No, unmarried couples must provide individual bank statements showing $3,000+ per person. Joint accounts don't prove individual financial stability to consulates.

Do we need to prove our relationship?

Married couples should bring marriage certificate. Unmarried couples don't need relationship proof but should mention traveling together in applications and provide each other's contact details.

What if one person gets approved and the other doesn't?

Rare for couples with complete applications. If it happens, the rejected person can reapply immediately with additional documents. The approved person's visa remains valid.

Can we apply at different consulates?

Apply based on where you live, not together necessarily. If you live in different consulate territories, apply separately at your respective local consulates.

How to Get Japan Visas as a Couple

Married couples can apply for Japan tourist visas together with shared documents like joint bank statements and hotel bookings. Unmarried couples must apply separately but can reference each other's travel plans. Processing takes 5-7 business days and costs nothing for most nationalities.

Determine if you need visas. Citizens of 68 countries including US, UK, Canada, Australia get 90-day visa-free entry. Citizens of countries like China, India, Russia need tourist visas. Check Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for your specific nationality.
Gather shared documents for married couples. Collect marriage certificate, joint bank statements showing $3,000+ per person, shared hotel bookings, and round-trip flight reservations. You can submit one application covering both travelers with these joint documents.
Prepare separate applications for unmarried couples. Each person needs their own application form, bank statements, and proof of employment. In the travel itinerary section, reference traveling together and include each other's names and passport numbers.
Complete visa application forms. Download forms from your nearest Japanese consulate website. Fill out completely in English or Japanese. For couples, write 'accompanying spouse' or 'traveling with [partner's name]' in the purpose section.
Book consulate appointment. Most Japanese consulates require appointments. Book 2-3 weeks ahead during busy seasons. Married couples can often attend the same appointment slot.
Submit applications together. Bring all documents, passport photos (45mm x 45mm), and passports. Consulate staff will review and may ask about your relationship and travel plans. Processing takes 5-7 business days.
Collect visas and verify details. Pick up passports with visas attached. Check dates, names, and entry type are correct. Tourist visas are typically valid for 3 months with 15-90 day stays allowed.

Can we use joint bank statements if we're not married?: No, unmarried couples must provide individual bank statements showing $3,000+ per person. Joint accounts don't prove individual financial stability to consulates.
Do we need to prove our relationship?: Married couples should bring marriage certificate. Unmarried couples don't need relationship proof but should mention traveling together in applications and provide each other's contact details.
What if one person gets approved and the other doesn't?: Rare for couples with complete applications. If it happens, the rejected person can reapply immediately with additional documents. The approved person's visa remains valid.
Can we apply at different consulates?: Apply based on where you live, not together necessarily. If you live in different consulate territories, apply separately at your respective local consulates.