【For Nepalese Nationals】What Should You Be Aware of When Applying for Naturalization?
Many Nepalese nationals who have lived in Japan for a long time likely consider acquiring Japanese nationality in the future. This article explains everything from the basics of naturalization applications to key points Nepalese nationals should be aware of.
What is a Naturalization Application?
A naturalization application is the procedure for foreign nationals residing in Japan to acquire Japanese nationality. Applications are submitted to the Immigration Services Agency (ISA) office with jurisdiction over the applicant’s place of residence. If the naturalization application is approved, a Japanese family register (koseki) is created for the individual.
The main requirements for approval include: “continuous residence in Japan for at least five years (residence requirement)”, “being at least 18 years old and legally competent (capacity requirement)”, and “fulfilling tax obligations and complying with laws and regulations (good conduct requirement)”. All these conditions must be met. Additionally, having a stable livelihood and being able to conduct daily life in Japanese are important factors.
Applying for naturalization involves more than just submitting forms and documents; it is a comprehensive assessment based on interviews and document reviews, making thorough preparation essential.
Naturalization Applications for Nepalese Nationals
When Nepalese nationals apply for naturalization, specific considerations apply.
First, Nepal does not permit dual nationality. Acquiring Japanese nationality will result in the loss of their existing Nepalese nationality. Therefore, it is essential to thoroughly discuss with family how they intend to maintain ties with their home country after naturalization.
Furthermore, many Nepalese nationals enter Japan as technical intern trainees or international students and later change their status of residence to settle permanently. For naturalization applications, factors like length of residence, employment status, and tax payment history are heavily weighted. Therefore, it is crucial to organize records of past residence statuses and employment history.
Furthermore, Japanese language proficiency is a key assessment criterion. During the interview, applicants are evaluated on their ability to respond in Japanese. Building confidence in everyday conversation and basic reading/writing skills is therefore important.
Key Points for Naturalization Applications
When Nepalese nationals apply for naturalization, they must first ensure all documents are complete and free of inaccuracies. Documents such as your Nepalese birth certificate and family relationship certificate require Japanese translations. Any discrepancies between the original and the Japanese translation will delay the review process.
Additionally, if your income and living situation are unstable, your application may be denied. Therefore, it is crucial to secure stable employment and demonstrate that your tax payments and social insurance enrollment status are in order.
Furthermore, past traffic violations or minor legal offenses can affect the “good conduct requirement.” It is vital to demonstrate a sincere attitude of reflection and improvement, even for minor offenses, rather than ignoring them. If you have concerns about such issues, consulting a professional, such as an administrative scrivener, for support with document preparation and interview preparation is advisable.
Summary
When applying for naturalization as a Nepalese national, careful attention must be paid to numerous points, including loss of nationality, document accuracy, and Japanese language proficiency. Thorough preparation and seeking expert advice are essential to ensure a successful application and secure Japanese nationality.
