Naturalisation (Japanese Citizenship)
Long-term residents who want to become Japanese nationals and hold a Japanese passport.
The Naturalisation (Japanese Citizenship) is a Japanese settlement & citizenship visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (No application fee) and processing time (~8-12 months (often longer)), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Naturalisation (Japanese Citizenship) is for
Long-term residents who want to become Japanese nationals and hold a Japanese passport.
This is full citizenship, the final settlement step; Japan generally requires giving up other nationalities.
Naturalisation (Japanese Citizenship) - eligibility criteria
- Usually 5+ years' continuous residence in Japan
- Aged 18+ and of good conduct
- Able to support yourself (own or household income)
- Sufficient Japanese-language ability for daily life
- Willing to renounce existing nationality (Japan limits dual citizenship)
Naturalisation (Japanese Citizenship) cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Naturalisation (Japanese Citizenship) (Japan) is No application fee, with an indicative processing time of ~8-12 months (often longer). Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at Immigration Services Agency of Japan.
| Type | Citizenship |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Application to the Legal Affairs Bureau (Ministry of Justice) in Japan |
| Length of stay | Permanent (citizenship) |
| Work rights | Unrestricted (as a citizen) |
| Study rights | Unrestricted (as a citizen) |
| Government fee | No application fee |
| Processing time | ~8-12 months (often longer) |
| Route to PR | This is full citizenship, the final settlement step; Japan generally requires giving up other nationalities. |
Pathway & next steps
This is full citizenship, the final settlement step; Japan generally requires giving up other nationalities.
Many applicants also compare Permanent Resident · Permanent Resident (Eijuken), Spouse of Japanese · Spouse or Child of Japanese National. Run a free VisaChief check to see which Japanese route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Naturalisation (Japanese Citizenship) pitfalls we fix
Naturalisation (Japanese Citizenship) - frequently asked questions
How much does the Naturalisation (Japanese Citizenship) cost?
The Naturalisation (Japanese Citizenship) government fee is No application fee. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at Immigration Services Agency of Japan before applying.
How long does the Naturalisation (Japanese Citizenship) take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~8-12 months (often longer). Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Naturalisation (Japanese Citizenship) lead to permanent residence?
This is full citizenship, the final settlement step; Japan generally requires giving up other nationalities.
Can I work on the Naturalisation (Japanese Citizenship)?
Work rights: Unrestricted (as a citizen).
Who can apply for the Naturalisation (Japanese Citizenship)?
Long-term residents who want to become Japanese nationals and hold a Japanese passport.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Japan government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- Immigration Services Agency of Japan - official Japan immigration authority