Help!

[musicbono]

Hi Everyone,

I'm new here and have a couple of questions.

First, if I want to visit Japan, can I do it under the non-visa waiver program? I am American. I have been there many times to work, but never on vacation.

Second, if my girlfriend is a non Japanese Permanent Resident and we decide to marry, will I be able to apply for a Spouse Visa and remain in Japan?

Thanks in advance for your time and consideration. I think this is a very cool site.

Musicbono

[Glenski]

Americans don't need a visa to come as tourists. You are granted 90 days as long as you have a valid passport and no blacklist against you.

If your GF is non-Japanese, I don't think you can get a spouse visa. You would get a dependent visa.

[musicbono]

Hey Glenski,

Thank you so much! I will look into that dependent thing, but I will feel very strange being a 50+ year old dependent! lol Wow! Does that mean I won't be able to work? I know with the Spouse Visa I could...

She is a Long Term Resident now (been living in Japan for 12 years and has a minor Japanese son) and is applying to become a Permanant Resident.

Again, much appreciated, my friend.

Musicbono

[Glenski]

The dependent visa alone does not permit work, but if you file the simple application to get permission to work, you can.
http://www.immi-moj.go.jp/english/tetuduki/index.html
It's only for PT work, but better than nothing. Who's to say that you can't add "under the table" work on the side, too. PT hours are official hours anyway.

Also, be careful that you don't earn officially more than 1.1 million yen/year. Do that, and your spouse can't use you as an exemption on his/her Japanese taxes.

[musicbono]

Glenski,

You are the best! I can't thank you enough.

I am a professional singer and if I can get even just a few gigs, I know everything will work out fine.

I will do some research on the link you sent to me.

Again, my greatest thanks.

Musicbono