CICan I Japan?
Can I Japan?/Family/Can I divorce in Japan as a foreigner?
Family

Can I divorce in Japan as a foreigner?

DEPENDS

Possibly. Jurisdiction, applicable law, mutual consent, court procedure and recognition in the parties' home countries all matter.

VerifiedExact primary sourceLast checked: 18 Aug 2026

What you need to know

Requirements & exceptions
  • Immigration consequences should be reviewed separately.
Documents
  • Identity documents
  • Civil-status / relationship documents
  • Certified translations where required
Likely cost
Municipal filings may have no filing fee, but certificates, translations, notarization, mediation/court stamps and legal assistance can create costs depending on the procedure.
Where to act
Municipal office for agreed administrative filings where available; Family Court for mediation/adjudication; Immigration separately if residence status is affected.
Official sources
Ministry of Justice — Divorce / Parenting PortalImmigration Services Agency / Ministry of Justice · Official sourceMinistry of Justice — Revised Rules on Parenting after Divorce (effective 2026-04-01)Immigration Services Agency / Ministry of Justice · Official sourceExisting verified sourceImmigration Services Agency / Ministry of Justice · Official source

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