Naturalization Application
Can Celebrities Still Be Denied Naturalization in Japan?
- 2024.05.15
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Question: Can famous people be rejected when applying for Naturalization in Japan? Answer: Yes, it is possible for famous people to be rejected when applying for Naturalization in Japan. In order to become a Japanese citizen through Naturalization, there are certain criteria that must be met, and failing to meet any of these criteria can result in a denial of the application. Here are some of the most common reasons why Naturalization applications are rejected:
Failure to meet the required domicile time
To be eligible for Naturalization in Japan, the applicant must have lived in Japan for a certain period of time.
In most cases, this means living in Japan for at least 5 years and working there for at least 3 years.
Unless there are special circumstances, failing to meet these requirements will result in a denied application, even for famous people.
To know more please read “Details About Naturalization Conditions – the Domicile Condition” using the following link.
Insufficient Japanese proficiency
Another requirement for Naturalization is a certain level of Japanese proficiency.
The applicant must be able to communicate in Japanese and read and write simple articles.
Generally, a proficiency level equivalent to that of a 3rd or 4th grader or passing the N4 to N3 level of the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) is sufficient.
Even if the applicant is famous, if they cannot communicate in Japanese, they will not be able to be naturalized.
Having a criminal record
Applicants must meet certain conduct requirements, and having a criminal record can be grounds for denial.
However, the nature of the crime and the timing of the judgment can also be taken into consideration, meaning that it is possible for someone with a criminal record to still be naturalized.
Additionally, meeting tax obligations is also considered when evaluating an applicant’s conduct.
Summary
Even famous people are not guaranteed to be approved for Naturalization in Japan.
It is important to note that the requirements for Naturalization applications can vary depending on the individual case.
Therefore, it is essential for anyone considering Naturalization to research and understands the related laws and requirements thoroughly.
If you are unsure whether you meet the requirements, please contact us for a consultation.
We are Yanagi group, which have offices in Osaka (Abeno and Tennoji), and our affiliated offices in Tokyo (Shibuya and Ebisu) are also available for an on-site consultation. We have handled many applications for permanent residence permits, naturalization permits, work visas, college student visas, management visas, etc., as well as visa renewal procedures related to the status of residence with the Immigration Bureau (Immigration Bureau) as a one-stop service. Our experienced administrative scriveners are also available to help you with any problems you may have.
We also have staff members who can speak each of the native languages and can assist you in obtaining a visa.
※If you wish to be consulted in Nepali or Bengali, please inform us in advance via our website or social media, and the translator will contact you ahead of time.
Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions about your status of residence or visa, even if they are trivial.
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Editor of this article
![Ryota Yanagimoto](https://immigration-lawyer.co.jp/wp-content/themes/wp/assets/images/supervisor1.webp)
- Ryota Yanagimoto
- Administrative Scrivener/Judicial Scrivener
At the age of 24, he passed the national examinations for judicial scrivener, administrative scrivener, and wage service manager at the same time.
While working as a full-time lecturer at a major prep school, he independently opened a legal office related to judicial scriveners and administrative scriveners,
and he has experience as a judicial scrivener and an administrative scrivener for more than 15 years so far.
He has been actively contributing to various industries such as publicly listed companies, real estate companies, financial institutions, elderly care services, and professional organizations by conducting seminars, lectures, and talks.
And now he has a record of over 60 presentations so far.
Furthermore, as the president of a Japanese language school announced by the Ministry of Justice and Acts, and an advisor to a real estate company (capable of handling foreign clients),
he has been involved in various aspects of industries related to foreigners.
It is recommended to consult with experts when it comes to visas, naturalization, and residency matters.
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Our office has specialized experts in visa and naturalization applications who are available to assist with free consultations (limited to the first session) and inquiries related to various visa applications and naturalization applications.
Additionally, we have foreign staff proficient in English, Chinese, and Korean languages with specialized knowledge, and they are present to provide support. They can accommodate consultations and inquiries in each language. Feel free to use our free consultation and inquiry services from here.