If you've already started researching how to get married in Japan, you've probably encountered long lists of documents, warnings and complicated procedures.
Don't let that put you off.
We regularly assist international couples with legally registering their marriage in Japan. There is paperwork involved, and the requirements differ depending on your nationality and circumstances — but with the process properly prepared and coordinated, it can be surprisingly straightforward.
You don't need to become an expert in Japanese marriage procedures. That's our job.
What Our Couples Say About Their Experience
of getting legally married in Japan with our help
“They answered every question that I had throughout the legal and planning process and the day of went so smoothly that we were able to just focus on each other.”
Gabriella & Justin (USA)
“We were able to get legally married in Japan thanks to Henry's team… Our day was fully planned and reserved without any hiccups.”
Amanda & Mitch (USA)
"Ayako and Yoshimi expertly guided us through all the pre-wedding planning and the legal marriage process, making everything feel seamless."
Mari & Mikko (Finland)
Can two foreigners legally get married in Japan?
Yes. Two foreign citizens can legally register their marriage in Japan, provided they meet the legal requirements applicable to their respective nationalities and provide the documentation required by the Japanese authorities.
You don't necessarily need to live in Japan to get married here. Many of the couples we work with travel to Japan specifically for their destination wedding or elopement.
The exact requirements are different for different nationalities and circumstances, which is why we establish the appropriate process individually for each couple.
How does getting legally married in Japan work?
A legal marriage in Japan is registered at a Japanese city or ward office using a Kon-in Todoke (婚姻届), the official Japanese marriage registration form, together with the required supporting documents.
For foreign couples, those documents depend on factors including your citizenship, country of residence and previous marital status.
Some documents may need to be obtained before travelling to Japan. Others may involve your embassy or consulate in Japan. Translations, certification or additional documentation may also be required.
The important part is knowing what applies to you, what needs to be prepared, and in what order.
That's where we come in.
Legal Marriage Assistance in Japan
Depending on your circumstances, our assistance can include:
- Determining the requirements for your nationality and circumstances
- Guiding you through the documents you need to obtain
- Preparing and translating the necessary paperwork
- Coordinating and pre-checking your documents with the Japanese city hall
- Preparing your Japanese marriage registration
- Arranging witnesses when needed
- Accompanying you through the registration process
- Assisting with obtaining your Japanese marriage documentation afterwards
We'll tell you what we need from you and when we need it.
We take care of the rest.
Is a marriage in Japan legally recognized in our home country?
Yes. A marriage legally registered in Japan is a legal marriage, not a symbolic ceremony. You will receive an official Japanese marriage certificate confirming your marriage.
Depending on your home country, you may need to have the certificate translated or complete a local administrative filing when you return home.
Legal marriage + your Japan elopement
The paperwork is only one small part of the reason you're coming to Japan.
For our couples, we can coordinate the legal registration alongside the wider elopement experience including photography, cinematic videography, ceremony, locations, styling and the practical arrangements surrounding the day.
Whether you're planning to elope in Tokyo, Kyoto, Mount Fuji or anywhere else in Japan, we'll look at your nationality, circumstances, travel dates and wedding plans and determine the appropriate route for your marriage registration.
Getting legally married in Japan shouldn't feel complicated.
Tell us where you're from, when you're planning to marry and where in Japan you're considering.
We'll take it from there.