Marrying as a foreigner in Japan is a legal and cultural process. If you are an American who wants to marry in Japan or perhaps just curious about it, understanding the nuances can make your journey smoother.
Marriage in Japan for foreigners involves legal procedures and cultural considerations, offering a unique combination of traditions and modernity. Foreigners are allowed to marry in Japan but must follow specific legal regulations. Marriages between Japanese and foreigners are permitted, and marriages between two foreigners can also be done in Japan. However, the government has not passed a law on same-sex marriages.
Suppose a person from overseas wants to wed in Japan. In that case, they do not usually need Japanese nationality, regardless of whether both sides of the marriage must meet certain conditions provided by their respective countries legislation systems. For a foreign marriage in Japan, this procedure may usually entail requesting a Marriage Eligibility Certificate (konin yoken gubi shomeisho) from your home country's embassy or consulate in Japan, which states that you are single and eligible to marry.
You can conduct a marriage in Japan for foreigners throughout the year. However, there are also administrative and legal aspects, such as obtaining the necessary documents and scheduling appointments with local offices or venues. Due to pleasant weather and cultural significance, spring or autumn is a popular marriage time.
Getting married in Japan as an American involves several steps, primarily focused on obtaining the necessary paperwork and following the legal requirements for foreign marriage in Japan:
In Japan, you can only marry if you get a certificate of eligibility from the embassy or consulate where you reside. This document confirms that you are within the legal bounds of your home country regarding marriage. Depending on the country, you need to show a photo ID, single status, a certificate of no impediment, etc., and maybe other things, depending on your needs.
Once you have the certificate, visit a municipal office (shiyakusho) in Japan with your partner. Fill an application form (konin todoke) for a marriage in Japan for foreigners and hand it in with the letter and other necessary documents. It is essential to check the municipal office where you will register for a foreign marriage in Japan regarding specific requirements and procedures. This is because these may differ slightly from one municipality to another.
Once your marriage has been registered legally, it will be up to you whether or not you decide to hold a wedding ceremony and celebrations, depending on your likes and preferences. For instance, in Japan, there are diverse sites and ways of holding weddings, from the traditional Shinto way up to the Western style, which takes place in hotels and other areas.
Many couples also love to incorporate components of both Japanese and Western customs into their wedding celebrations, thus creating extraordinary and unforgettable experiences for themselves and their visitors.
Suppose you are attracted to Japan's deep cultural past and beautiful scenery or simply want to hold your wedding in a particular locale. In that case, Japan is a lovely place that is significant for your wedding day. With a careful plan and keenness, you will keep strong memories even as you begin your marriage in this fascinating country.
Some reliable agencies specialize in introducing Japanese women to foreigners for dating, romance, love, and marriage. One popular and trusted agency is the Transpacific Marriage Agency (TMA). We have helped thousands of couples improve their lives, escape loneliness, and find true love. To join TMA, you must be at least 18 years old and unmarried.