JapanIs there still a waiting period before remarriage?
Yes, in Japan, a woman must wait 100 days after divorce before remarrying, unless she gives notice of pregnancy or gives birth during that period.
What the Law Says
Japanese law imposes a mandatory waiting period before remarriage for women following divorce, intended to avoid uncertainty about paternity. The rule is codified in the Civil Code and includes specific exceptions.
Under Article 733 of the Japanese Civil Code, a woman may not remarry until 100 days have passed after the dissolution or cancellation of her previous marriage.
This rule does not apply if the woman gives notice to the municipal office that she is pregnant — or if she gives birth — before the end of the 100-day period.
The waiting period starts on the day the divorce becomes legally effective (e.g., registration of divorce or court judgment).
Statutory TextA woman may not remarry until six months have passed from the day of dissolution or cancellation of her previous marriage; provided, however, that this shall not apply if she has given birth or has notified the municipal office of her pregnancy.
— Civil Code, Art. 733 — Remarriage by woman after divorce
Statutory TextThe period referred to in the preceding paragraph shall be one hundred days where the woman has given birth or has notified the municipal office of her pregnancy.
— Civil Code, Art. 733, para. 2 — Exception period
What to Do
Confirm the official date your divorce was registered (or finalized by court judgment).
Count 100 days from that date to determine your earliest possible remarriage date.
If you are pregnant or have given birth, notify your local municipal office in writing before the 100-day period ends.
Submit required documents (e.g., pregnancy certificate or birth certificate) to waive the waiting period.
File your new marriage notification at the municipal office only after meeting the legal requirements.
Sources
Not legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-09.