Japan: No Joint-Bank Accounts

[coip 1]

So, it seems that there is no such thing as joint-bank accounts in Japan. If this is the case, how can we prove 'shared finances' on our i-130 application?

[Anh map 2,098]

So, it seems that there is no such thing as joint-bank accounts in Japan. If this is the case, how can we prove 'shared finances' on our i-130 application?

How long have you been married?

You want to show a bona fide relationship. What proves that is different depending on the circumstances. Newlyweds will not have the same financials as couples married for a while.

[saiqa 0]

So, it seems that there is no such thing as joint-bank accounts in Japan. If this is the case, how can we prove 'shared finances' on our i-130 application?

It is not mandatory to proof 'shared finance'. Your situation is understandable to USCIS. We did not provide any documents of shared finance with I-130 as we do not have any till now. Our application is approved in 3 months without any REF.

So, don't be worried.

[coip 1]

Thanks. Technically, we're not married yet (2 more weeks), but we wanted to send off the i-130 as soon as possible so that we can expedite us moving to the U.S. We know the joing finances isn't mandatory, per se, but because we don't have any evidence of cohabitation either, that coupled with the inability to have a joint checking account here in Japan made us worry that our application will appear a little weak (to USCIS).

Edited September 24, 2012 by coip

[coip 1]

Also, I contacted Citi Bank in Japan and while they confirmed that there is no such thing as a joint account in Japan, that we could set up an account under my name and then issue her a proxy card, with her name on it. Perhaps that would suffice for the i-130 application. Has anyone done this?