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assisting in the realization of civil and social rights
How a Foreigner Can Obtain Japanese Citizenship
Although Japan is not a popular country among Belarusian citizens, it is still a country with an incredibly interesting history and culture. At the same time, it seems quite mysterious and closed: a foreigner will always remain a foreigner here, even if they manage to obtain citizenship. Obtaining Japanese citizenship is a complex and lengthy process, but not impossible. We will tell you how a foreigner can get a Japanese passport, as well as the easiest way to legalize in Japan.
The Japanese passport is the most "powerful" passport in the world and allows visiting 193 countries without a visa or with simplified entry. Only people born in Japan to two Japanese parents can automatically obtain citizenship. If a child was born outside Japan and only one of their parents is Japanese, then upon reaching 18 years of age, they will need to choose which country's citizenship they will keep. Dual citizenship is not allowed in Japan.
Adult foreigners can obtain Japanese citizenship through naturalization (the process of voluntary acquisition of citizenship by a foreigner). Here's what is needed for that:1) Legally and permanently reside in Japan for at least 5 years (if you are married to a Japanese citizen for at least 3 years, then you need to reside in the country for at least one year or more).
2) Be over 20 years of age and be a capable citizen.
3) Have a permanent job (but it is also allowed to be supported by a spouse or parents).
4) Have no criminal record, not violate Japanese laws, pay taxes.
5) Meet the high moral and ethical qualities присущим Japanese people.
6) Know Japanese at least at an intermediate level (N3).
7) Renounce the citizenship of your first country.
8) Not be part of political associations that encroach on the constitutional order of Japan.
9) Have at least 25 thousand dollars in your account to prove that you can support yourself.
In addition, you must undergo an interview with an immigration officer. The first interview is scheduled approximately 30 days after your application. Before the interview, law enforcement representatives may visit you and have an informal conversation, as well as talk to your neighbors or employer about your personality.
The second interview is usually scheduled in 2-3 months. At this interview, you must confirm your knowledge of the Japanese language (you must be able to read, write, and communicate in Japanese), as well as your knowledge of the country's cultural specifics.
Japan covers all expenses for obtaining citizenship, and it is not subject to any taxes. You will only need to pay for the process of renouncing your first country's citizenship. The entire process of obtaining Japanese citizenship can take up to one and a half years.
The easiest way to legalize in Japan is to obtain a residence permit for study. A student visa is issued for a period of 3 months to 4 years and 3 months. It can be extended indefinitely as long as you continue your studies.
To obtain such a visa, you must find a Japanese language school or university that will help you obtain a COE (Certificate of Eligibility). This document confirms the legality of your stay in the country and that the purpose of your stay matches the stated one. The certificate is provided free of charge. Obtaining the certificate takes 2-3 months, and only after it is approved can you begin the visa application process. All that remains is to collect all the necessary documents (passport valid for at least six months, completed visa application, recent passport-sized photo, letter of invitation, and proof of funds, such as a sponsor's letter or bank account statement) and wait.
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