Family unity is an important human right. If you were separated from your family before or during your flight, you may apply for them to join you in Japan, under specific conditions. Whether your family can join you ultimately depends on the type of legal status you are granted by the Government of Japan and the nature of your relationship with those wishing to join you.
I was recognized as a refugee in Japan. Can I invite my family to Japan?
Basically, your family member has to apply for issuance of a Certificate of Eligibility for a Residency Status. For information, please consult the website of the Immigration Service Agency (ISA) of the Government of Japan here.
You may also consult Chapter 1-3 of Handbook for Life in Japan “Living Guide for Convention Refugees” issued by Refugee Assistance Headquarters of the Foundation for Welfare and Education of Asian People.
Applications for the Certificate of Eligibly for a Residency Status are submitted to the Immigration Service Agency of the Government of Japan and not UNHCR in Japan. UNHCR is not involved in the decision-making process and cannot speed up the process.
For Refugees Resettled to Japan: How to apply for Family Reunion?
Refugees who have come to Japan through the Government of Japan’s third country resettlement program may be eligible for family reunion through a specific program for resettled refugees. Please consult the website of the Cabinet Secretariat of the Government of Japan.
Applications for Family Reunion are submitted to the Immigration Service Agency of the Government of Japan and not UNHCR in Japan. UNHCR is not involved in the decision-making process and cannot speed up the process.
Related information
>>>> How to claim asylum in Japan
>>>> Helpful services
>>>> UNHCR in Japan
>>>> Resettlement to Japan
