Married in Manila, then move to Japan?

[lierre 224]

Hello everyone!

I'm getting married to my amazing fiance in half a year. He is in the military, based in Japan for 1.5 years.

After our wedding here, what will be the best process for me to join him in Japan?

Is an approved I-130 petition required for me to get SOFA dependent status in Japan?

If not, how is it done?

I hope someone can help.

[TiklingGuy 211]

That is a great question. I am not going to pretend i know the answer. Somebody will be along shortly who does have an answer for you though. I wish you the best of luck!

Edited January 15, 2012 by Dex22

[Tim/Mav 305]

Step #1. Get Married

Step#2 Have him File the appropriate papers. Get Approved.

Worry about the small stuff later. You will granted to be with your husband.

[Theresa0828 65]

Hello everyone!

I'm getting married to my amazing fiance in half a year. He is in the military, based in Japan for 1.5 years.

After our wedding here, what will be the best process for me to join him in Japan?

Is an approved I-130 petition required for me to get SOFA dependent status in Japan?

If not, how is it done?

I hope someone can help.

I found this site... http://www.ph.emb-japan.go.jp/visiting/visa/us_military_updated.htm

Although I am sure that yours is not a unique case and that all your fiance need to do is ask the right people where he is stationed.

[Cazwik 11]

I am assuming he is going to Okinawa? Anyway his jag should be able to help you better with this situation. When I was in Korea , guys that married filipinas were able to get them there in Korea with them after only 3 monthes. Faster if they married them in Korea , Most cases though they would marry them back in manila , come back and talk to jag, 3 months later they are living off base with their love. So anyway, just have your husband talk to his legal rep in the military. They should be able to help you out. I didn't know Japan offered accompanied tours now

[felb 0]

vee, check one of the answers on this link. It might help a little.

Edited January 16, 2012 by felb

[abby2tim 0]

Hello everyone!

I'm getting married to my amazing fiance in half a year. He is in the military, based in Japan for 1.5 years.

After our wedding here, what will be the best process for me to join him in Japan?

Is an approved I-130 petition required for me to get SOFA dependent status in Japan?

If not, how is it done?

I hope someone can help.

You need to file a SOFA status visa at Japan Embassy Manila. My husband was stationed in Okinawa before. We did the same thing but mine got denied cause we weren't married when we filed SOFA. For the best answer on your question, tell your husband ask his commander. That's the easiest way for you two. Goodluck

[lierre 224]

thank you everyone!

i read somewhere that an airman from germany got sofa dependent status for his wife prior to leaving for germany - http://www.visajourney.com/forums/topic/272586-sofa-card-received-us-military/

i wonder if this can be applicable in japan?

but i will also ask my fiance/soon-to-be husband to inquire from their military helpline. but if someone can enlighten us where to ask specifically, it will be better. US embassy/consulate? or which office in their department?