Bringing a Dependent
Are you married and/or have a family? Wondering what it's like to have a dependent while on the JET Program? Look no further! This section is for you.
Marriage Certificate
Filing Residency
When you file for residency, you'll need a copy of your marriage certificate. BE AWARE that not all Contracting Organization's speak and understand English. You should bring a translated copy of your marriage certificate to make the process easier.
You can either get this professionally done, or translate it yourself with the following link.
婚姻書翻訳書 Certificate of Marriage Translation.docx.pdfCertificate of Marriage Translation
You can also use this form, made by a Reihoku blocker, to make a bilingual translation of your certificate of marriage.
FAQs
Q. Can my partner work?
A: The answer is yes! Non-JET spouses are NOT legally able to work on a Dependent Visa. However, the non-JET can apply for "Permission to Engage in Activity Other Than That Permitted Under the Status of Resident Previously Granted." If they are granted this, they can work under the following conditions:
Work hours are a maximum of 28 hours per week.
The job should already be confirmed. (Note: If the dependent's work changes, permission must be applied for again at that time. The employee should provide substantiating documentation, such as an employment contract, and copies of this should be submitted with the application.)
Spouses on a Dependent Visa can look for a company to sponsor them for a Working Visa, in which case they would be permitted to maintain full working hours. The visa must be officially changed from Dependent to Working in order to legally work.
The spouse is free to volunteer anywhere as long as no money or goods are being exchanged for services.
Q. Can I enroll my Child in a Japanese school?
A: You can, but this is a question for the JET's Contracting Organization and Prefectural Adviser. The JET should note that they will be arriving in the middle of the school year, making it difficult for your child to enter a Japanese school. English language schools do exist, but they may be found primarily in larger cities and may be expensive.
Homeschooling is an option for Americans, and should be an option even when living abroad. For non-Americans, please check with your country's government and education guidelines for nationals living abroad.
Q. Are my dependents Covered under my insurance?
A: Yes, they are! Your dependents will be covered under the mandatory Health Insurance, but they are not covered under the JET Accident Insurance. You should fill out the Health Insurance forms with your Contracting Organization.
Q. Does my Spouse have a Pension?
A: Yes, they do. If you look at your pay stub and it seems that you're paying more towards your pension than other JET's, it's because you are. So, before you leave and file your pension forms, you should file the same forms for your spouse. Click here for the pension form.