IMMIGRANT VISA PROCEDURES

This is the first of two steps in obtaining an immigrant visa. (The second step is the actual application for the visa which is described in a separate section.) American citizens resident in Japan or present in Japan may file an immigrant visa petition (I-130) for a spouse, child, step-child, or parent at the Immigrant Visa Unit in Naha or Tokyo. U.S. legal permanent residents residing in Japan may also file petitions in Japan. If the relative is resident in Japan and the claimed identities and relationships are clear, the petition can be approved by the IV officer and the IV application processed. Other petitions, however, will be referred to USCIS Seoul for adjudication.

Americans residing in Japan other than in Okinawa are strongly encouraged to submit their petitions and supporting documents by mail. Original documents must be submitted and will be returned at the time of the visa interview or mailed back if the petitioner includes a stamped, self-addressed envelope. U.S. military personnel can submit copies of the required documents if the copies have been certified as true and correct at the base legal office. read more...

As of December 1, 2003 those who wish to file an IV petition in person in Tokyo must schedule an appointment to do so. Please do not schedule an appointment until you have read the instructions carefully and assembled ALL of the necessary documents. Appointments will be available every Wednesday.

Due to security concerns and space constraints, only those with appointments will be admitted. The beneficiary of the petition does not need to appear. Given the space limitations no family members other than beneficiaries will be admitted. In view of the amount of time it takes to complete the process, parents are kindly requested not to bring small children.read more...