Direct Consular Filing (DCF) for U.S. Military Members in Japan

If you are an active duty service member US citizen living in Japan and wish to bring a close family member to the United States, you may qualify for Direct Consular Filing (DCF). Under certain conditions, the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo may allow you to file Form I 130, Petition for Alien Relative, directly with the embassy instead of through USCIS in the United States. This process can dramatically shorten the immigrant visa timeline, sometimes reducing it from several months to just a few weeks.

While DCF is not available for routine filings, the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo reviews requests on a case by case basis when applicants can demonstrate urgent or exceptional circumstances.

What Is Direct Consular Filing (DCF)

Under 9 FAM 504.2 2(A), immigrant visas generally require a petition approved by DHS (USCIS). However, in limited situations, U.S. consular sections abroad are authorized to “accept and approve” Form I 130 petitions locally.

Direct Consular Filing (DCF) enables certain U.S. citizens who are residing in Japan to file the petition directly with the embassy, bypassing U.S. service center processing and thereby shortening wait times significantly.

In Japan, DCF is typically granted only under exceptional circumstances, at the sole discretion of the Consular Section.

Recognized Exceptional Circumstances

The U.S. Embassy in Tokyo may consider DCF requests under conditions such as:
• U.S. military emergencies or short notice deployments
• U.S. military members stationed in Japan

Applicants must clearly identify the qualifying category and include supporting documentation.

Filing Fee

The Form I 130 filing fee for DCF in Japan is $675 USD, payable to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

Accepted payment methods at the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo typically include credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover) or cash in U.S. dollars or local currency (if filing in person).

Embassy Review and Response

After you submit your DCF request, the Immigrant Visa Unit usually responds within 3 to 5 business days.

For U.S. Military Members and Federal Employees in Japan

If you are serving in the U.S. Armed Forces or are a U.S. government employee stationed in Japan, you may qualify for DCF due to the mobility and urgency associated with your role. This provision helps ensure that families can relocate together during deployments, reassignments, or government transfers without lengthy separation.

We Can Help You Navigate Military DCF

At Blue Lake Law, we specialize in assisting U.S. military members and their families stationed overseas with Direct Consular Filing. Our team has extensive experience with DCF cases filed through U.S. embassies across Asia, Europe, and beyond.

We guide clients through every step, from preparing the DCF request to assembling evidence and preparing for the consular interview.

If you are serving or living in Japan and face an urgent family immigration situation, contact us today for experienced, efficient guidance.