Three Ways a Child Can Apply for Naturalization
When applying for a naturalization permit, it is possible for only the parents to be naturalized, for only the children to be naturalized, or for both to be naturalized at the same time. But how can both the parents and the children apply for naturalization? This article explains the case where only the children apply for naturalization, the case where only some children apply for naturalization, and the case where the whole family applies for naturalization.
If only the child apply for naturalization
As for whether or not only the child can apply for naturalization, there is a basic requirement for applying for naturalization: they must be “at least 20 years old and have the capacity to act in accordance with the law of their home country.
In Indonesia, for example, the age for adults is 21. So the child must be over 21 to apply for naturalization in Japan.
Therefore, it is practically impossible for a minor to apply for naturalization as a child.
In addition, if the child is under 20 years old, you must wait until he or she turns 20 or apply for naturalization jointly with his or her parents.
If only some of the children apply for naturalization
It is possible for only some of the children living in the family to apply for naturalization.
For example, two out of four siblings may apply for naturalization.
In this case, the child may also apply for naturalization only if he/she meets the requirement of being 20 years of age or older and able to act in accordance with the laws of his/ her home country.
Although the applicant himself/herself is subject to the examination, it should be noted that the family members living together are also subject to the examination, as there are living requirements, such as whether the applicant is able to earn a living in Japan.
Employment income and business income are also subject to verification. Sole proprietors must provide a copy of their most recent tax return, and employees of businesses must provide documents such as tax payment certificates.
If the entire family applies for naturalization
The requirement for applying for naturalization is that you have “lived in Japan for more than 5 years".
If the applicant meets the requirements, it is possible to apply even if the child has not lived in Japan for more than 5 years. (Article 8, paragraph 1 of the Nationality Law)
In other words: If a parent has lived in Japan for more than 5 years, the application for naturalization can be submitted for the entire family, even if the child has not lived in Japan for more than 5 years.
When you apply for the entire family, the total cost is reduced because it is easier to confirm the identity of all members.
Summary
If only the child applies for naturalization, they must be recognized as adults in their home country and as adults in Japan.
In addition, it is possible that only some of the children in a family apply for naturalization. In this case, you can also apply for naturalization if you meet the requirement that you are 20 years or older and can act according to the law of your home country.
However, if the parents have lived in Japan for at least 5 years, the application for naturalization can be submitted for the entire family, even if the child has not yet lived in Japan for 5 years.