[June 2025 Summary] Naturalization, Permanent Residency & Visa Updates|Expert Insights from a Certified Immigration Lawyer
▶ For the original Japanese version of this article, please see:
【2025年6月まとめ】帰化・永住・在留資格の最新情報|行政書士が解説
Introduction|Trends and Consultations in June
In June 2025, we saw a noticeable increase in consultations regarding naturalization applications, especially among long-term residents in Japan considering Japanese citizenship for the future.
Many clients were unsure about the differences between permanent residency and naturalization, which prompted us to publish a comparison article during the month. Our goal was to help foreign residents better understand these systems and make informed decisions.
Other frequent inquiries included spouse visas and residence status changes after employment transitions, reflecting changes in family and work situations.
From the Field: Common Consultations and Practical Advice
One of the most common questions this month was: “Which is better for me—permanent residency or naturalization?” While many understand that permanent residency allows for long-term residence in Japan, they are often unfamiliar with the deeper distinctions in legal status, application requirements, and procedural details.
In these cases, we provide personalized guidance based on residence history, income, family situation, and future plans. Helping clients understand how naturalization leads to inclusion in the family registry or how their children can acquire Japanese citizenship often plays a key role in their decision-making.
We also received questions from those who had just changed jobs or had stayed in Japan less than five years, asking whether permanent residency was possible. For both options, clarifying whether the criteria are met is a critical first step. As certified immigration lawyers, we support clients by reviewing requirements and preparing document checklists to give them confidence in their path forward.
Blog Articles Published in June
Here are the articles we published in June 2025 related to naturalization and visa procedures. Each one is designed to offer clear explanations and practical insights for those considering applications:
- Translating Foreign Documents for Naturalization Applications: Key Points Before Submission
- [Essential Guide] Required Documents and Translation for Naturalization in Japan
- Consultation for Immigration Procedures in Juso, Osaka: Support from a Visa & Naturalization Specialist
- Naturalization for Children Born and Raised in Japan: What Foreign Parents Should Know
- Permanent Residency vs. Naturalization in Japan: A Complete Comparison of Requirements and Merits
We regularly update these articles, so we recommend checking them again before applying—even if you’ve already read them once.
Important System Considerations
Many people assume they meet the requirements, only to discover unexpected issues during the application process. Below are some points that require careful attention:
- Timing of Job Change or Resignation: Changing jobs right before application can raise concerns about stability.
- Tax and Pension Records: Even a single year of unpaid taxes or pension can be a serious issue. Always confirm your full payment history.
- Family Documentation: For naturalization, you may need marriage or birth certificates from your home country, which can take time to obtain. Start early.
- Nationality: Naturalization requires giving up your original nationality, unlike permanent residency. Dual citizenship may not be allowed by your home country, so careful consideration is necessary.
Even if the system seems straightforward, real-life cases often involve complications. If you’re unsure about any aspect, we strongly recommend consulting a professional.
Our Work This Month & What’s Next
In June, we supported a British client through the naturalization process, including interviews, document preparation, and organizing translated materials. Since naturalization often requires 100–200 documents, we were reminded of the importance of early planning and thorough support.
We also published a comparison article to help those debating between permanent residency and naturalization better understand the system and make informed decisions. Our aim is to explain even complex topics in a simple and accessible way.
Looking ahead to July, we plan to cover topics such as the basics of Japan’s residence card system and key points for spouse visa applications. We will continue sharing insights rooted in real-world practice.
Contact Us for Consultations
We offer consultations for naturalization, permanent residency, and other visa-related matters. During your first consultation, we will carefully listen to your situation and explain the application possibilities and preparation steps.
If you’re unsure where to start or wondering which option is best for you, feel free to get in touch.
Please contact us using the inquiry form below.
If you are in a hurry, feel free to call us at
06-7777-3467
(9:00 AM – 11:00 PM, Monday to Friday)
Please note that we may be unable to answer immediately if we are assisting other clients.
In that case, kindly leave a voicemail, and we will call you back as soon as possible.
About Our Privacy Policy
To learn about the privacy policy of “Ishinagi Administrative Scrivener Office,”
please refer to the link below:

Representative Administrative Scrivener: Takanori Ishinagi
Japan Federation of Certified Administrative Procedures Legal Specialists (Registration No.: 24260930)
Osaka Administrative Scrivener Association (Membership No.: 008905)
Certified Immigration Agent (Notification No.: Gyō-172025200093)
Neo Heights Shin-Yodogawa Room 406,
1-20-18 Jūsōhigashi, Yodogawa-ku, Osaka 532-0023, Japan
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