As an Indian, acquiring Japan citizenship can help you transition to a financially comfortable and fulfilling life. Apart from ample job opportunities in the technology sector, Japan boasts a superior healthcare infrastructure, safety, public transportation and a unique culture. In fact, its unemployment rate was only 2.6% in 2024. Kind locals and scenic landscapes add to the appeal. So, it’s no surprise that last year, the net migration was pegged at 153,357. If moving to the Land of the Rising Sun is on the cards for you as well, this blog explains everything about Japan citizenship for Indians.
Who is eligible to get Japan citizenship?
To obtain citizenship for Japan, you must be eligible through one of these channels:
By birth
Individuals are eligible for citizenship through birth if they satisfy any of the following conditions:
- At the time of your birth, at least one parent should have held Japanese nationality
- If an individual’s father passed away before birth, but was a Japanese citizen at the time of demise.
- If an individual was born in Japan, and the nationality of both parents is unknown.
By notification (sent to the Minister of Justice)
Individuals may acquire citizenship through a notification sent to the Ministry of Justice, provided that they were not a citizen previously and are under 20 years of age if their father or mother acknowledges their paternity or maternity after birth. The parent who declares this lineage must be a current citizen, a citizen at the time of the individual’s birth or a citizen at the time of their death.
By naturalisation
The following are the Japan citizenship requirements to fulfil under naturalisation (common route for Indians):
- The individual must have continuously resided in Japan for at least five consecutive years with valid residence status throughout that period.
- They must be at least 20 years old and legally capable under the laws of their home country (e.g., India).
- They must either be financially self-sufficient or have a spouse or relatives capable of providing necessary support.
- They should have no criminal record and must be fully compliant with Japan’s tax laws and payment obligations.
- They are required to renounce their Indian nationality as part of the naturalisation process.
- They must not be affiliated with any organisation that advocates or engages in activities against the Japanese government.
Note: It is prudent to consult the official Ministry of Justice website for up-to-date information.
Japan citizenship application process
Once you are sure of your eligibility, follow the listed steps for the Japanese citizenship application:
- Get all essential documents in one place and head to your local Legal Affairs Bureau.
- Fill in the application form with complete accuracy and submit the same along with the documents and processing fee.
- After immigration officials check your application and verify important details, they will invite you for an interview.
- If the officials approve your application, they will send it forward to the Minister of Justice.
- Once the Minister approves your naturalisation, the Official Gazette will publish the same. You will also receive a certificate stating the same.
Documents required to apply for Japan citizenship
The following are the documents you typically need to supply when applying for citizenship for Japan.
- Naturalisation application form along with a passport-size photo
- Statement indicating the objective behind the naturalisation application
- Resume
- Documents that include general details about relatives
- Documents that describe how you earn a living (employment or business)
- Nationality proof documents
- Documents that prove income and tax payments
- Residence certificate’s copy and documents that prove history of residence
- Documents that prove the relationship you have with your parents
Note: You may seek the Legal Affairs Bureau’s advice as an added measure.
Processing fee to apply for Japan citizenship as Indians
An individual is required to bear a processing fee between ¥40,000 and ¥50,000 to apply for Japan citizenship. However, check with your local Legal Affairs Bureau for an accurate figure.
Does Japan allow dual citizenship?
Unfortunately, you cannot be a dual citizen of Japan. If you hold another nationality, you must renounce it by age 22 or within two years of acquiring it, or risk losing Japanese citizenship.
Rejection of Japan citizenship: Reasons and ways to avoid
Listed below are the chief reasons why your Japanese citizenship application might get rejected and how to avoid them:
- Issues with application form or documents: Forms that are incomplete or contain erroneous details might lead to rejection. This can also happen if you don’t submit relevant documents or ones that aren’t authentic.
- Poor character and conduct: Immigration officials might reject your application if you possess a criminal record. Not having a decent reputation in your locality or among neighbours can also pose problems.
- Unstable financial situation: If your tax history is inconsistent or you have outstanding bills, it might indicate financial instability and cause application rejection.
Conclusion
Japan presents many advantages to Indians who want a peaceful, successful and enriching life.
Even if you wish to explore the country as a tourist, there is so much on offer from Mount Fuji and pretty beaches to old castles, intriguing museums, Buddhist temples and bustling markets. Whether you’re travelling frequently for insurance responsibilities or leisure, ensure you buy travel insurance online to stay protected financially against unforeseen circumstances. Whether it’s a missed flight, medical emergency or lost bag, the right travel insurance for Japan will keep your peace of mind intact.
FAQs
- Are Indians eligible to obtain Japan citizenship?
You can make an application for citizenship through naturalisation if you have resided in Japan for a minimum of 5 years consecutively and fulfil certain other criteria.
- Will I automatically obtain citizenship for Japan if I marry a Japanese national?
No, tying the knot with a Japanese national doesn’t guarantee your citizenship. You will need to fulfil other naturalisation criteria for citizenship.
- Does it make sense to apply for Japan citizenship for Indians?
Japan ranks high on educational and career-related opportunities, infrastructure, safety, medical care and cultural richness. Hence, Japanese citizenship involves multiple benefits.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the topic featured in the article. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.