U.S. Embassy & Consulates
in Japan

To receive an Immigrant visa, an original or certified copy of the birth record or family register for each visa applicant must be presented. The certificate must contain the seal or signature of the official custodian of the record and also show that it is an extract from an official record. The certificate must state the date and place of birth, the names of both parents, and the registration date. Birth certificates for all unmarried children under age 21, even if they are not applying for a visa, must be submitted. In the rare case where a birth record does not exist, secondary evidence of birth, e.g. a baptismal certificate, school record or other timely evidence showing the name, date and place of birth, and parent’s names may be considered. Secondary evidence must have been timely registered and not for the sole purpose of satisfying this visa requirement.

Japan:  Submit an original or certified copy of the family register (koseki) which shows the date and place of birth, as well as parentage. The family register must be accompanied by an English translation, certified by the translator. This document does not expire as long as the information remains correct. However, a new family register must be submitted when amendments are made. It is recommended to submit a family register issued within three months, as a newer family register maybe requested during interview. If the koseki does not show the birth place, please obtain the family register established at the time of birth (jyoseki shohon).

Non-Japanese born in Japan:  Submit either a birth certificate issued by a diplomatic or consular official of the applicant’s nationality, or an original or certified copy of the Certificate of Acceptance of Notification of Birth (“shussei todoke juri shomeisho” or “shussei todoke kisaijiko shomeisho”). It must be accompanied by an English translation, certified by the translator.

The Philippines:  Submit a birth record that was timely registered and issued by the Philippine Statistics Authority. Please ensure that birth records state the true and correct name, date and place of birth of the child and name, age and place of birth of the parents.

For detailed information on Birth Certificate/Records and other civil documents from all countries, please see the State Department Reciprocity and Civil Documents by Country.