Being one of the most scenic countries with lots of culture and history, Japan always ranks as one of the favorite places to say "I do." For any foreign national, getting married in Japan requires very specific requirements and formalities. As a resident or tourist, you must know the requirements so that your wedding is recognized legally. This blog is to take you through everything you need to know about the process of getting married in Japan as a foreigner.
The first thing you need to know about getting married in Japan is the legal framework concerning marriage. Under the Japanese legal system, the country accommodates two types of marriages: (1) Civil and (2) Religious marriages. The legal framework only recognizes civil marriages. For foreigners, civil marriage also involves registering a union with the local authorities.
Both parties must meet under specific eligibility criteria:
You may need a few documents for registration purposes, but this depends on your nationality. Some of the common documents include:
All documents should be in the Japanese language. Hence, they will need to be translated if someone needs to be fluent in Japanese. Local authorities may have translation services. It is wise to make prior enquiries.
Although Japan does not require witnesses for the marriage registration process, having a couple of witnesses sign your marriage registration can add a nice touch to the occasion. If you choose to do this, they must be over the age of 20.
Once you have all the documents prepared, both of you are expected to head to the city hall or ward office to register. Pre-appointment is usually advisable, particularly in the big cities.
Present all the said documents to the staff at the city hall. They would check it to see if it's complete and correct. Once everything is correct, you'll be advised to proceed further with the registration.
Fill out the form for marriage registration. The forms usually consist of details including your name, nationality and address, amongst other information. Be sure that all this information is correct to avoid confusion afterwards.
The city or town office will then issue an official marriage certificate called kon'in-todoke no juri-shomeisho to you after the registration has been processed. With an official marriage certificate, your marriage can be legally recognized in Japan and may be requested by you for other purposes sometime later in the future.
If either of you considers changing your name after marriage, the name change should be done through the legal process for name changes in Japan and your home country. Update passport and other identification documents if applicable.
You may also register your marriage after it has been consummated in Japan, in your home country, so that the government there recognizes it. Requirements vary between countries, so ask your embassy or consulate for instructions on what you should do.
While the legal matters are of prime importance, they should remember that a Japanese wedding is full of cultural intensity. A traditional Shinto ceremony, a Western-style wedding, or even a small gathering with friends can be great ways to celebrate your union.
Marriage in Japan, as a foreigner, can indeed prove to be a very enriching experience steeped in all meaning and significance attached to it culturally. Familiarization with the legal requirements, preparation of all documents required, and registration will result in the marriage being recognized within Japan and your country. With its stunning landscapes and rich traditions, Japan serves as a magical backdrop to your wedding and an unforgettable beginning to your life together. Whether you choose to have a more formal ceremony or one that is bare-bone civil registration, your love story can quite beautifully go along in this magnificent country.
Related Blog: Why Do So Many Foreigners Marry Japanese Women?