Naturalization FAQ in Japan｜Answers to the Most Common Questions

If you are considering applying for naturalization in Japan, you probably have many questions about the process, required documents, and eligibility. As immigration professionals, we receive a wide range of inquiries on a daily basis.

This article summarizes the most frequently asked questions (FAQ) based on actual consultations and application experiences. From general requirements and paperwork to interviews and family applications, we provide clear answers backed by practice.

Whether you’re just beginning to consider naturalization or already preparing documents, we hope this guide will help you move forward with confidence.

General Questions about Naturalization

Should I apply for permanent residence or naturalization?

Permanent residence allows you to stay in Japan indefinitely while keeping your original nationality. Naturalization means acquiring Japanese nationality and becoming a Japanese citizen.

Naturalization is generally chosen by people who want to:

• Gain access to public jobs (which require Japanese nationality)
• Participate in elections
• Raise children as Japanese nationals
• Make Japan their permanent home socially and legally

If you want to keep your original nationality, permanent residence is the better choice. If your long-term goal includes full integration into Japanese society, naturalization is likely more suitable.

What happens to my current nationality after naturalization?

In principle, you must give up your current nationality when naturalizing in Japan. Japan does not allow dual nationality for adults.

Some countries automatically revoke your original nationality upon naturalization (e.g., South Korea, China). Others (e.g., the UK, the US, India) require you to complete a separate renunciation procedure. In certain countries, it may take several months to obtain a certificate of renunciation.

Japan requires that you show the intent and ability to renounce your previous nationality as part of the naturalization process.

How long does the naturalization process take?

From document submission to final decision, the process generally takes 10 to 12 months. It includes the following stages:

1. Preliminary consultation at the Legal Affairs Bureau
2. Document preparation and submission
3. Examination by regional and national offices
4. Interview and follow-up if necessary
5. Final notification (approval or rejection)

Depending on your location and personal circumstances, the process can take up to 18 months or longer in some cases.

Requirements and Eligibility

I’m not sure if I meet the requirements. What are they?

There are seven main legal requirements for naturalization in Japan:

1. Residency (continuous stay in Japan for at least 5 years)
2. Age (20 or older and legally an adult under your home country’s law)
3. Good conduct (no criminal history, proper tax and insurance payments)
4. Financial stability (sufficient income from work or family support)
5. Renunciation of original nationality
6. Support for the Constitution and no anti-government activities
7. Basic Japanese language ability (reading, writing, conversation)

Some requirements may be relaxed for spouses of Japanese citizens, children raised in Japan, etc. A consultation with a legal professional is recommended if you’re unsure.

How many years do I need to live in Japan before applying?

The general rule is five years of continuous residence in Japan.

However, exceptions include:

• Spouse of a Japanese citizen: 3 years of marriage + 1 year of residence
• Special permanent residents: more flexible interpretation
• Children raised in Japan: schooling history may be taken into account

Long absences (e.g., over 100 days abroad in a year) may disrupt the continuity requirement.

Can I apply even if I’m unemployed or only working part-time?

Yes, it is possible, depending on your financial situation. Japan requires that you or someone in your household has stable income.

Examples where approval is possible:

• Working part-time but consistently employed and paying taxes
• Supported by a spouse or parent with a stable income
• Receiving scholarships or regular remittances from family

However, a complete lack of income or unclear financial support may lead to denial. Be prepared to submit documents such as tax records, employment certificates, or bank statements.

Documents and Procedure

How many documents are required?

In most cases, applicants submit around 100–200 pages of documents. This includes:

• Japanese documents (tax, residence, employment, school, etc.)
• Foreign documents (birth, marriage, family relations certificates, etc.)
• Japanese translations of all foreign documents
• Personal statements (reason for naturalization, family tree, resume)
• Supplemental materials (bank records, lease contracts, photos, etc.)

The exact number depends on your family structure, job history, and nationality.

Can I translate foreign documents by myself?

Yes, self-translation is legally acceptable. However:

• Poor grammar or missing information can negatively affect your application
• Some Legal Affairs Bureaus require a “translator’s statement” with name, contact info, and signature
• Inconsistent formatting may cause confusion

To avoid mistakes, many applicants choose to work with professionals—either an administrative scrivener (gyoseishoshi) or a certified translator.

Can I get my birth certificate from my home country while living in Japan?

In many cases, yes. But the process depends on your country of origin.

Examples:

• Online available: Korea, Philippines, Indonesia
• Family assistance needed: Nepal, Sri Lanka, China
• Legally difficult to obtain: India (requires relatives or lawyers in-country)

Some countries have no centralized records and issue alternative documents like affidavits. You may need to consult your consulate or embassy.

Interview and Review Process

What questions are asked in the naturalization interview?

The interview evaluates your daily life, integration into society, and basic Japanese communication skills. Common topics include:

• Your job and workplace
• Your daily schedule and how you spend weekends
• Your family situation (spouse, children, cohabitants)
• Your understanding of Japanese customs and holidays
• Reading or writing simple Japanese

The Legal Affairs Bureau wants to confirm that you are well-settled in Japan and genuinely willing to become a citizen. Practice beforehand is highly recommended.

Can I change jobs during the application process?

Yes, but be cautious. Job changes can impact your financial stability, which is one of the core review points.

• Avoid gaps in employment
• Notify the Legal Affairs Bureau immediately and submit updated documents
• Secure a new job before resigning from the previous one, if possible

Changing jobs itself does not lead to denial, but sudden unemployment or lack of explanation can raise red flags.

What happens if my application is denied?

You can apply again, but first you must understand why your application was rejected. Reasons may include:

• Unpaid taxes or late payments
• Lack of Japanese language ability
• Frequent job changes or income instability
• False or incomplete documentation
• Repeated traffic violations or past offenses

If the issue is correctable, you can reapply after addressing the problem. Many successful applicants have been approved on their second attempt after improving their application.

Questions About Children and Family

Can my children apply together with me?

Yes. If your children are under 20 years old and dependent on you, they can apply as part of a joint application.

• They do not need to meet all requirements separately
• They do not need to be living with you, as long as the dependency is clear
• Children raised in Japan (attending school, speaking Japanese) are generally seen positively

In some cases, a child aged 10 or older may be asked about their intention to naturalize.

I’m a single mother and the father is not involved. Can I still apply with my child?

Yes. Japanese law allows single parents to apply for naturalization with their children as long as the parent-child relationship is clearly proven through documents like a birth certificate.

If the father is not legally recognized, the process may be simpler. If the father is named but not involved, the Legal Affairs Bureau may request additional clarification.

Because rules vary depending on the country, it’s best to consult a legal expert familiar with nationality law and local documentation.

Legal Support from an Administrative Scrivener

What are the benefits of hiring an administrative scrivener?

A certified gyoseishoshi (administrative scrivener) can assist you through every step of the process:

• Assess your eligibility
• Create a personalized document checklist
• Translate and format foreign documents
• Draft your reason statement and personal history
• Communicate with the Legal Affairs Bureau
• Help prepare for the interview
• Accompany you to the Legal Affairs Bureau if needed

Professional support helps reduce stress, prevent mistakes, and improve your chances of approval—especially if your case is complex.

How much does it cost to hire a professional?

Typical fees for naturalization support range from 150,000 to 300,000 yen, depending on:

• Number of applicants (single or family)
• Translation volume
• Employment type (company worker vs. self-employed)
• Presence of complex issues (divorce, undocumented parent, etc.)

At our office, we provide a free consultation and a clear estimate based on your specific case. We always explain possible additional fees in advance.

Can an administrative scrivener accompany me to the interview?

Yes. Administrative scriveners are allowed to attend the interview at the Legal Affairs Bureau.

However, you as the applicant must answer the questions. The scrivener may:

• Provide emotional support
• Help explain unclear parts if asked
• Ensure the flow of the interview goes smoothly

If you would like a scrivener to attend, notify the Bureau in advance. At our office, we offer both interview preparation sessions and on-site support, depending on your preferences.

Conclusion

Naturalization is a major life step, and success requires detailed preparation, accurate documentation, and a clear understanding of the process.

This FAQ has addressed the most common questions we receive from clients. However, every case is different—and specific advice is often necessary to avoid delays or denials.

If you’re unsure about your eligibility, overwhelmed by paperwork, or just want to ensure the process goes smoothly, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We offer full legal support from consultation to document preparation, translations, and interviews.