Impact of School Non-Attendance on Dependent Visa Renewal in Japan#

For foreign residents living in Japan under the “Dependent” (Kazoku Taizai) visa status, the education and well-being of their children are of paramount importance. A common concern arises when a child refuses to go to school or becomes truant (a phenomenon often referred to as futoko in Japan). Parents frequently ask: “Will my child’s failure to attend school affect the renewal of their Dependent visa?”

The short answer is that while school non-attendance does not automatically lead to a visa revocation, it can significantly influence the immigration examination process depending on the child’s age and daily activities. Furthermore, it can have serious implications for future visa applications.

Here is a detailed, objective explanation of how the Immigration Services Agency of Japan views school non-attendance for dependents, and what measures should be taken during the renewal process.

Understanding the Legal Basis of the “Dependent” Status#

To understand the impact of non-attendance, one must first clarify the legal requirements of the “Dependent” status.

Unlike the “Student” visa, where attending classes and maintaining a certain attendance rate is the primary condition for residency, the “Dependent” visa is grounded in the family relationship. The core requirement is that the applicant is a spouse or child of the main visa holder and is “receiving financial support” from them.

Legally speaking, education is not a mandatory activity for a holder of a Dependent visa. Therefore, theoretically, a child does not lose their visa status simply because they are not attending school, provided they are living with their parents and are economically dependent on them.

However, this does not mean the Immigration Bureau ignores the child’s lifestyle. Immigration inspectors assess the stability and propriety of the family’s residence in Japan holistically.

The Critical Factor: Age of the Child#

The scrutiny regarding school attendance varies significantly depending on whether the child is of compulsory education age or older.

1. Compulsory Education Age (Elementary and Junior High School)#

In Japan, compulsory education lasts until the end of Junior High School (approximately age 15). If a child in this age group is not attending school, Immigration generally does not penalize the visa renewal application strictly.

The authorities understand that foreign children may face language barriers, bullying, or cultural adjustment issues leading to futoko (withdrawal). As long as the child lives with the parents and is being cared for, the renewal is usually granted. The focus here is on whether the parents are fulfilling their duty of guardianship and not neglecting the child.

2. Post-Compulsory Education Age (High School and Older)#

The situation becomes much stricter for children aged 16 and above (high school age). While high school is not compulsory in Japan, if a dependent child of this age is not in school, Immigration will closely examine their daily activities.

If a 17-year-old is not attending school and is also not working (or working only part-time), the authorities may question the necessity of their stay in Japan. The risks are as follows:

Suspicion of Illegal Work: If the child is not in school, there is a temptation to work more than the legal limit (28 hours per week with permission). If a child is found to be working essentially full-time hours instead of studying, the renewal will likely be denied as this deviates from the “Dependent” status purpose.
Concerns over Delinquency: A lack of belonging to any institution (school or workplace) can lead to concerns about social behavior. Immigration wants to ensure the child is not engaging in undesirable activities.

The Importance of the “Statement of Reasons”#

When applying for a visa renewal for a child who is not attending school, silence is the worst strategy. You must proactively explain the situation to the Immigration Bureau.

It is highly recommended to attach a “Statement of Reasons” (Riyusho) to the application. This document should address:

The Cause: Why is the child not attending school? Is it a medical issue (anxiety, depression), a social issue (bullying), or a language barrier?
Current Status: How does the child spend their day? Are they studying at home, attending a free school, or receiving counseling?
Future Plans: What is the plan for the next term? Is the family aiming for high school reentry, passing the high school equivalency exam, or simply focusing on mental recovery?

Supporting documents are crucial. For example, a medical certificate from a doctor or a letter from a counselor proves that the non-attendance is due to health or psychological reasons, not delinquency. This evidence shows Immigration that the parents are responsibly managing the situation.

Long-Term Implications for Future Visas#

Even if the current Dependent visa is renewed, a history of non-attendance can create obstacles for future visa changes.

Transitioning to a “Student” Visa#

If the child decides to attend university or vocational school later, they must change their status from “Dependent” to “Student.” During this examination, the Immigration Bureau may review the child’s academic history. A long period of unexplained gaps or poor attendance in high school (if enrolled but not attending) can be viewed negatively regarding their intent and ability to study.

Transitioning to “Long-Term Resident” or “Permanent Resident”#

Some children who grow up in Japan may eventually apply for “Long-Term Resident” (Teijyu) status or Permanent Residency. These applications include a “good conduct” requirement. While futoko itself is not bad conduct, if the non-attendance was accompanied by police guidance, trouble with the law, or excessive part-time work violations, it will severely hamper these applications.

Furthermore, for the parents’ Permanent Residency application, the stability of the entire household is evaluated. A child who is neither in school nor working could potentially be seen as a factor of instability, although this is secondary to the parents’ financial capability.

Conclusion#

A child’s refusal to attend school does not automatically result in the rejection of a Dependent visa renewal. The Immigration Bureau acknowledges that family support is the primary basis of this status, especially for younger children.

However, for teenagers approaching adulthood, a lack of school attendance raises red flags regarding illegal labor and social stability. To ensure a smooth renewal and protect the child’s future in Japan, parents must provide a clear, honest explanation of the circumstances through a written statement and demonstrate that they are actively supporting their child’s well-being and development. Transparency with immigration authorities is the safest path forward.