Japan’s marriage laws underwent a significant transformation in April 2022, marking one of the most substantial revisions to the country’s marriage age requirements in over a century.
As of this amendment to the Japanese Civil Code, the legal marriage age in Japan is now 18 years old for both men and women.
This change represents an important modernization of Japan’s marriage laws, which previously set different minimum ages based on gender.
Prior to April 2022, women could legally marry at 16 years old, while men had to wait until 18. This gender disparity had been in place since 1898, reflecting traditional views on gender roles and family formation that had persisted in Japanese law despite evolving social norms.
The revision to establish a uniform marriage age of 18 for all genders was part of a broader effort to:
- Align with international standards on marriage age
- Promote gender equality in family law
- Better protect young people from early marriage
- Harmonize with other Japanese laws that recognize adulthood at 18
Despite the minimum age being set at 18, it’s important to note that individuals between 18 and 20 years old still require parental consent to marry in Japan.
This requirement stems from Japan’s age of majority system, where full adult legal rights and responsibilities are generally recognized at 20 years of age for many purposes.
The legal basis for these marriage requirements is found in Articles 731 to 737 of the Japanese Civil Code (民法), which govern marriage eligibility.
The recent amendments reflect Japan’s evolving approach to family law and its efforts to balance traditional values with contemporary social needs.
In practice, this means that while an 18-year-old can now legally marry regardless of gender, they must still obtain formal approval from at least one parent or legal guardian until they reach 20.
Without this parental consent, the marriage cannot be legally registered at the municipal office, which is the essential step for establishing a legal marriage in Japan.
Legal Requirements for Marriage Registration in Japan
In Japan, marriage is not officially recognized through a ceremony or religious service alone. Instead, legal marriage in Japan is exclusively established through a civil registration process known as “Kon-in Todoke” (婚姻届) at the local municipal office.
This administrative procedure is the only way to obtain legal recognition as a married couple under Japanese law.
The Kon-in Todoke Registration Process
The marriage registration process in Japan is surprisingly straightforward, especially compared to the elaborate wedding ceremonies that might accompany it. To legally marry in Japan:
- Complete the marriage registration form (Kon-in Todoke)
- Submit the form with required signatures (including those of two witnesses aged 20 or older)
- Present the form at the municipal office in person (either spouse’s registered domicile, current residence, or birthplace)
- Receive official confirmation of marriage registration
Once processed and accepted, the marriage is immediately legally binding. There is no waiting period after submission, and couples become legally married on the same day their registration is accepted.
Required Documentation for Japanese Nationals
Japanese citizens must prepare the following documents:
- Kon-in Todoke form (available at municipal offices or downloadable online)
- Official copy of family register (戸籍謄本, koseki tohon) issued within the past month
- Personal seal (印鑑, inkan) or signature
- Valid identification (driver’s license, passport, or My Number card)
The family register is particularly important in Japan as it serves as the official record of family relationships. When Japanese nationals marry, a new family register is created for the couple.
Requirements for Foreign Nationals
Foreign citizens face additional requirements when marrying in Japan:
- Passport (valid and current)
- Certificate of Legal Capacity to Marry (婚姻要件具備証明書, konin yoken gubi shomeisho) from their home country
- Birth certificate (may be required in some municipalities)
- Divorce decree (if previously married)
- Certified translation of all non-Japanese documents
The Certificate of Legal Capacity to Marry is particularly important as it confirms that the foreign national is legally free to marry under their home country’s laws. This document is typically obtained from the embassy or consulate of the person’s home country in Japan.
Marriage Restrictions Regarding Family Relations
Japanese law places specific restrictions on who can legally marry:
| Prohibited Relationships | Legal Status |
|---|---|
| Lineal relatives (parents, grandparents, children, grandchildren) | Prohibited |
| Siblings (including half-siblings) | Prohibited |
| Aunt/uncle and niece/nephew | Prohibited |
| Adoptive parent and adopted child | Prohibited while adoption remains in effect |
| Step-parents and step-children | Allowed after divorce from biological parent |
| First cousins | Allowed |
These restrictions are outlined in the Japanese Civil Code and are strictly enforced during the marriage registration process.
Legal Recognition Through Municipal Registration Only
It’s worth emphasizing that without completing the Kon-in Todoke process, couples are not legally married in Japan regardless of:
- Having a traditional Shinto wedding ceremony
- Having a Christian church wedding
- Being married under the laws of another country
- Living together for any length of time
This administrative requirement sometimes surprises foreign nationals who might assume that a ceremony constitutes legal marriage. In Japan, the ceremony is purely ceremonial, while the paperwork is what makes the marriage legally binding.
“In Japan, you’re not legally married until you’ve filed the paperwork. The most lavish wedding ceremony in the world means nothing in the eyes of Japanese law without the Kon-in Todoke.”
Understanding these requirements is essential for anyone planning to marry in Japan, whether they are Japanese nationals or foreign citizens.
Marriage Age and Parental Consent in Japan
In April 2022, Japan implemented a significant change to its marriage laws, raising the legal marriage age to 18 for both men and women.
This amendment to the Civil Code marked an important shift from the previous law, which had set different minimum ages for men (18) and women (16).
Current Legal Marriage Age Requirements
The current marriage law in Japan establishes that:
- All individuals must be at least 18 years old to legally marry
- This applies equally to Japanese citizens and foreign nationals marrying in Japan
- The law makes no exceptions for pregnancy or other circumstances
This change aligned Japan’s marriage age laws with international standards and addressed longstanding gender inequality in the previous legislation.
Rules for Individuals Aged 18-19
While individuals can legally marry at 18, there’s an important caveat that affects young adults between 18-19 years old:
- Individuals aged 18-19 must obtain parental consent to marry
- This requirement exists because Japan’s age of adulthood for most legal matters is 20
- Without parental consent, marriage registration will be rejected by municipal offices
This creates a unique situation where someone can legally marry but still requires parental approval until reaching full adult status at 20.
Parental Consent Documentation Process
The parental consent process involves several specific steps:
- Written consent form (同意書/Dōisho) must be completed by parents or legal guardians
- The form requires signatures from both parents when possible
- The consent document must be submitted along with the marriage registration form (婚姻届/Kon-in Todoke)
- Municipal offices verify the authenticity of parental signatures
If one parent is deceased or unavailable, documentation explaining the circumstances must be provided.
Exceptions to Consent Requirements
There are limited exceptions to the parental consent requirement:
- Individuals who were previously married and divorced (even if still under 20)
- Cases where obtaining parental consent is impossible (requires court approval)
- Individuals who have been legally emancipated through court procedures
Historical Context of Parental Authority
The parental consent requirement reflects Japan’s traditional family structure and the concept of koseki (family registry):
- Historically, marriages were arranged by families rather than individuals
- The concept of oyakōkō (filial piety) emphasizes respect for parental authority
- Traditional family structures placed significant importance on family approval of marriages
While modern Japan has moved toward individual choice in marriage partners, these legal requirements maintain elements of family involvement in marriage decisions.
Adult Age in Japan and Its Relationship to Marriage
The age of adulthood in Japan creates an interesting dynamic for marriage:
- In 2022, Japan lowered the age of adulthood from 20 to 18 for many legal matters
- However, certain restrictions remain for 18-19 year olds, including:
- Marriage (requires parental consent)
- Alcohol consumption (prohibited until 20)
- Smoking (prohibited until 20)
- Certain contracts (may require additional approval)
This creates a transitional period where 18-19 year olds have a hybrid legal status—they can marry, but with parental approval, reflecting Japan’s gradual approach to extending full adult rights.
“The requirement for parental consent until age 20 reflects Japan’s cultural emphasis on family involvement in major life decisions, even as the country modernizes its approach to marriage age equality.”
Understanding these nuanced requirements is essential for young adults planning to marry in Japan, as failure to obtain proper parental consent can result in rejection of marriage registration applications.
Cultural and Social Factors Affecting Marriage Age in Japan
While the legal marriage age in Japan is now 18, the actual average age at which Japanese people get married is considerably higher.
Modern Japanese society has witnessed significant shifts in marriage patterns over recent decades, with both men and women choosing to marry much later than previous generations.
Average Marriage Age in Japan
According to recent demographic data, the average age of first marriage in Japan stands at approximately 31.1 years for men and 29.7 years for women.
These figures represent one of the highest average marriage ages globally and reflect a steady increase over the past several decades.
In the 1970s, the average marriage age was around 27 for men and 24 for women, highlighting a significant shift in marriage timing over the past 50 years.
This trend toward later marriage has accelerated in recent years, with each new generation pushing the average age higher.
The “Bankonka” Phenomenon
The Japanese term “bankonka” (晩婚化) specifically describes this trend of later marriages. This phenomenon has become so pronounced that it’s recognized as a distinct social pattern with wide-ranging implications for Japanese society.
Factors Driving Later Marriage
Several interconnected factors contribute to Japanese people marrying later:
- Educational pursuits – Higher education rates, especially among women, have led many to prioritize academic achievement before marriage
- Career development – Building professional stability takes precedence, with many Japanese preferring to establish their careers before starting families
- Financial considerations – Economic pressures, including high living costs and employment insecurity, make many young Japanese hesitant to marry until financially stable
- Changing gender roles – Traditional expectations are evolving, with women increasingly pursuing careers rather than focusing exclusively on marriage and family
- Work-life balance challenges – Japan’s demanding work culture often leaves little time for dating and relationship building
Global Comparison
Japan’s marriage age trends align with those in other highly developed economies but are more pronounced. When compared to global averages:
| Country/Region | Average Marriage Age (Men) | Average Marriage Age (Women) |
|---|---|---|
| Japan | 31.1 | 29.7 |
| United States | 29.8 | 28.0 |
| European Union | 32.8 | 30.4 |
| South Korea | 33.2 | 30.8 |
| Global Average | 26.9 | 23.3 |
Declining Marriage Rate
The trend toward later marriages correlates with Japan’s declining overall marriage rate. In 2021, Japan recorded approximately 5.1 marriages per 1,000 people, down from 10.0 in the 1970s.
This decline represents one of the most dramatic drops in marriage rates among developed nations.
Many young Japanese express positive attitudes toward marriage in principle but cite practical barriers to finding suitable partners.
The phenomenon of “konkatsu” (婚活) or “marriage hunting” has emerged as a response, with structured activities and services designed to help singles find marriage partners.
Impact on Japanese Society
The rising marriage age and declining marriage rate contribute to several broader social concerns in Japan:
- Declining birth rate – Later marriages typically result in fewer children per couple
- Aging population – Combined with longevity, fewer marriages and births accelerate demographic aging
- Economic implications – Changes in household formation affect consumption patterns and economic growth
- Social welfare concerns – Fewer working-age people supporting a growing elderly population
As Japanese society continues to evolve, the balance between traditional marriage expectations and modern lifestyle choices remains a central social challenge, influencing everything from government policy to personal life decisions.
Special Considerations for International Marriages in Japan
When a foreign national plans to marry in Japan, the process involves several additional requirements beyond those for Japanese citizens.
Understanding these special considerations is crucial for ensuring a smooth marriage registration process.
Certificate of Legal Capacity to Marry
One of the most important documents for foreigners marrying in Japan is the Certificate of Legal Capacity to Marry (婚姻要件具備証明書, kon’in yōken gubi shōmeisho). This document:
- Confirms you are legally free to marry under the laws of your home country
- Verifies you meet all requirements for marriage according to your country’s laws
- Must be issued by your country’s embassy or consulate in Japan
Different countries have different names for this document. For example:
- U.S. citizens receive an “Affidavit of Competency to Marry”
- UK citizens obtain a “Certificate of No Impediment”
- Australian citizens get a “Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage”
Embassy Requirements by Nationality
Requirements vary significantly depending on your nationality:
| Country | Primary Requirements | Processing Time | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| United States | In-person appointment, passport, completed affidavit form | Same day | Notarization fee applies |
| United Kingdom | Advance notice (28 days), passport, proof of residence | 3-4 weeks | Must post notice at British Embassy |
| Australia | Online application, passport, birth certificate | 2-3 weeks | Statutory declaration required |
| Canada | In-person appointment, passport, divorce papers (if applicable) | 1-2 weeks | Provincial variations exist |
Document Translation Requirements
All foreign documents must be translated into Japanese before submission to the municipal office:
- Translations must be complete and accurate
- The translator’s name, contact information, and signature must appear on the translation
- While not legally required, using a professional translator is highly recommended
- Some embassies provide translation services for an additional fee
Marriage Registration Process for International Couples
The marriage registration process follows these general steps:
- Document Preparation: Gather all required documents from both home countries
- Document Authentication: Ensure all documents are properly authenticated (apostille or embassy certification)
- Translation: Have all non-Japanese documents professionally translated
- Submission: Submit all documents to the local municipal office (kuyakusho or shiyakusho)
- Registration: Complete the marriage registration form (kon-in todoke)
- Certificate: Receive your marriage certificate
Recognition of Foreign Marriages in Japan
If you’ve already married abroad and want your marriage recognized in Japan:
- Marriages legally performed abroad are generally recognized in Japan
- You must register your foreign marriage at a Japanese municipal office
- You’ll need your original marriage certificate with apostille or authentication
- A Japanese translation of the marriage certificate is required
- Both spouses’ birth certificates may be requested
Visa and Residency Implications
Marriage to a Japanese national can affect your visa status:
- Foreign spouses of Japanese nationals can apply for a Spouse of Japanese National visa
- This visa initially lasts 1-3 years and is renewable
- After 3 years of marriage and living in Japan, you may apply for permanent residency
- After 5 years, you may be eligible for Japanese citizenship (requires renouncing original citizenship)
Cultural Considerations
Beyond legal requirements, international couples should be aware of cultural expectations:
- Traditional Japanese families may expect a formal meeting (omiai) between families
- Gift exchanges (yuinō) may be expected between families
- Some families may request a traditional ceremony in addition to legal registration
- Different expectations regarding surname changes (traditionally, one spouse adopts the other’s surname)
Understanding these special considerations will help international couples navigate the sometimes complex process of getting married in Japan while ensuring their marriage is legally recognized both in Japan and their home countries.
Same-Sex Partnerships and Marriage in Japan
Japan currently stands at a crossroads regarding same-sex marriage recognition. Despite growing public support, same-sex marriage is not legally recognized at the national level in Japan.
The Japanese Constitution’s Article 24 states that “marriage shall be based only on the mutual consent of both sexes,” which has been traditionally interpreted as limiting marriage to heterosexual couples. However, significant progress has emerged at the municipal level.
Since Shibuya and Setagaya wards in Tokyo pioneered the first partnership certificate systems in 2015, more than 250 municipalities across Japan—representing over 60% of the country’s population—now offer some form of partnership recognition for same-sex couples. These include major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, Sapporo, and Fukuoka.
Partnership Certificate Systems
These partnership certificates provide same-sex couples with limited rights and recognition, including:
- Permission to live together in public housing
- Hospital visitation rights
- Limited recognition as family members for medical decisions
- Some employment benefits in participating companies
However, these certificates have significant limitations compared to legal marriage:
| Legal Right | Traditional Marriage | Partnership Certificates |
|---|---|---|
| Inheritance rights | Automatic | Not recognized |
| Joint adoption | Permitted | Not permitted |
| Spousal visa sponsorship | Permitted | Not permitted |
| Tax benefits | Available | Not available |
| Social security benefits | Available | Not available |
Legal Challenges and Advocacy
The landscape is gradually shifting through court challenges. In March 2021, the Sapporo District Court ruled that the government’s failure to recognize same-sex marriage is unconstitutional—a landmark decision that energized LGBTQ+ rights advocates.
However, subsequent rulings in Osaka and Tokyo have been mixed, with some courts upholding the constitutionality of the current system while others have declared it unconstitutional.
Several prominent advocacy organizations, including Marriage For All Japan and the Japan Alliance for LGBT Legislation, continue to push for national recognition.
These groups have garnered support from major Japanese corporations like Panasonic, Sony, and Fujitsu, which have implemented their own partnership recognition systems for employees.
“The partnership certificate system is an important step forward, but it falls far short of providing equal rights. Same-sex couples in Japan still face daily discrimination in areas that married couples take for granted.”
International pressure is also mounting. Japan remains the only G7 country that does not legally recognize same-sex unions at the national level, creating diplomatic and economic pressure for change.
For foreign nationals in same-sex relationships, this legal landscape presents additional challenges.
Even if legally married in their home country, their marriage is not recognized for immigration purposes in Japan, though some municipalities may recognize their foreign marriage certificates for local partnership registration.
The movement for marriage equality continues to gain momentum, with public opinion polls showing increasing support, particularly among younger generations.
While full marriage equality may still be years away, the expanding partnership system represents a significant cultural shift in Japanese society’s approach to LGBTQ+ rights and recognition.
Step-by-Step Guide to Marriage Registration in Japan
Getting married in Japan involves a straightforward but specific bureaucratic process. Unlike Western countries where ceremonies create legal marriages, in Japan, only completing the paperwork at a municipal office makes your marriage legally recognized. Here’s a comprehensive guide to navigating this process successfully.
Required Documents Checklist
To register your marriage in Japan, you’ll need to prepare:
- Marriage Registration Form (婚姻届 / Kon-in Todoke) – Available at any municipal office or downloadable from government websites
- Identification Documents:
- For Japanese nationals: Valid photo ID and personal seal (inkan)
- For foreign nationals: Passport and residence card (zairyu card)
- Certificate of Legal Capacity to Marry (婚姻要件具備証明書 / Kon-in Yōken Gubi Shōmeisho):
- Required for foreign nationals
- Obtained from your home country’s embassy or consulate in Japan
- Must certify you are legally free to marry
- Birth Certificate (for some foreign nationals)
- Divorce Certificate (if previously married)
- Certified Translation of foreign documents (must be in Japanese)
- Two Witnesses’ Signatures – Two adults (20 years or older) must sign your marriage registration form
Municipal Office Procedures
- Select the appropriate municipal office:
- Submit documents at the municipal office (市役所 / shiyakusho) where either spouse has their registered domicile
- For Tokyo residents, this would be your ward office (区役所 / kuyakusho)
- Complete the marriage registration form:
- Fill out all required fields
- Both parties must sign
- Obtain signatures from two witnesses (who don’t need to be physically present)
- Submit all documents to the clerk:
- Present your completed form and supporting documents
- The clerk will review everything for completeness and accuracy
- Receive your marriage certificate:
- If everything is in order, your marriage will be registered immediately
- You can request copies of your marriage certificate for official purposes
Timeline for Registration
| Stage | Timeframe | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Document preparation | 2-4 weeks | Allow extra time for foreign documents |
| Certificate of Legal Capacity | 1-3 weeks | Varies by embassy/consulate |
| Document translation | 3-7 days | Use certified translators |
| Registration submission | Same day | Takes approximately 30-60 minutes |
| Marriage certificate issuance | Same day | Immediately after approval |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Incomplete documentation – Missing even one required document can delay your registration
- Expired certificates – Most documents must be issued within three months of your registration date
- Improper translations – Documents must be professionally translated into Japanese
- Missing witness signatures – Without two valid witness signatures, your application will be rejected
- Wrong jurisdiction – Submitting at a municipal office where neither spouse is registered
- Inconsistent name spelling – Ensure your name is spelled consistently across all documents
Where to Seek Assistance
If you encounter difficulties or have questions about the marriage registration process:
- Municipal Office Consultation Services – Many offices have English-speaking staff or interpretation services
- Legal Affairs Bureau (法務局 / Hōmukyoku) – Can provide guidance on complex legal matters
- Your Country’s Embassy or Consulate – Especially helpful for document requirements specific to your nationality
- Professional Administrative Scriveners (行政書士 / Gyōsei Shoshi) – Legal professionals who can assist with document preparation and submission (fee-based service)
What Happens After Registration
Once your marriage is officially registered:
- Legal name changes (if applicable):
- Japanese spouses must choose either spouse’s family name
- Foreign spouses can maintain their original name legally
- Family registry updates:
- For Japanese nationals, a new family registry (戸籍 / koseki) entry is created
- This serves as the official record of your marriage
- Residence status considerations (for foreign spouses):
- Apply for a spouse visa if planning to live in Japan
- Update your residence card with new information
- Notification requirements:
- Inform your home country’s embassy about your marriage
- Update identification documents, banking information, etc.
- Tax and insurance updates:
- Register changes to your tax status
- Update health insurance and pension information
Remember that your marriage is legally recognized from the date of registration, not the date of any ceremony you might hold. Many couples in Japan hold their wedding ceremony either before or after completing the legal registration process.
Frequently Asked Questions About Marriage in Japan
Can individuals under 18 marry in Japan?
No, individuals under 18 cannot legally marry in Japan as of April 2022. The legal marriage age was standardized to 18 for both men and women following amendments to the Civil Code. Previously, women could marry at 16, but this exception no longer exists.
There are no exceptions to the minimum age requirement regardless of parental consent, pregnancy, or cultural circumstances.
What documents do I need for marriage registration in Japan?
To register a marriage in Japan, you’ll need:
- Kon-in Todoke (marriage registration form) with signatures of two witnesses
- Valid identification (passport for foreigners, residence card if applicable)
- Certificate of Legal Capacity to Marry from your home country (for foreigners)
- Japanese translation of foreign documents
- Birth certificate (in some cases)
- Divorce decree or death certificate (if previously married)
For international marriages, documents must typically be apostilled or authenticated by your country’s embassy in Japan.
How does marriage affect residency status for foreigners?
Marriage to a Japanese national makes you eligible for a Spouse of Japanese National visa, typically granted for 1, 3, or 5 years initially. This visa:
- Allows you to work without restrictions
- Creates a path to permanent residency (generally after 3 years of marriage and living in Japan)
- Does not automatically grant Japanese citizenship
Marriage to another foreigner does not automatically change either person’s visa status, and both must maintain valid residence status independently.
Is name change required after marriage in Japan?
Under Japanese law, married couples must share the same surname (family name). This can be either the husband’s or wife’s family name, but one spouse must change their name. However, foreign nationals can maintain their original names on their passports and foreign documents while using a Japanese family name for official purposes within Japan.
Are marriages in Japan recognized internationally?
Marriages legally registered in Japan are generally recognized worldwide, though some countries may require additional steps:
- Obtaining a certified copy of your Japanese marriage certificate
- Having it translated into your home country’s language
- Registering the marriage with your home country’s embassy or consulate
- Completing additional registration in your home country (varies by nation)
Always check specific requirements with your home country’s authorities.
What is the waiting period after divorce before remarrying?
As of 2016, women must wait 100 days after divorce before remarrying in Japan. This period exists primarily for paternity determination purposes. However, this waiting period can be waived if:
- The woman was not pregnant during the marriage
- She gives birth before the divorce is finalized
- Medical documentation confirms she is not pregnant at the time of divorce
Men have no waiting period and can remarry immediately after divorce.