Naturalization for Spouses of Japanese Nationals / Permanent Residents | Requirements, Examination Points & Success Strategies

We receive a significant number of enquiries from people who married internationally and hold the residence status “Spouse or Child of Japanese National,” as well as questions like “My foreign husband wants to naturalize,” or “My wife wishes to acquire Japanese nationality.”

This page provides a detailed explanation of the process, requirements, and practical points regarding naturalization applications for those who obtained their visa through marriage to a Japanese national.

1. Relaxed Requirements in Naturalization for Spouses of Japanese Nationals

In practice, naturalization in Japan consists of “ordinary naturalization,” generally for applicants aged 20 or older who have lived in Japan for at least five years, and “simplified naturalization,” where requirements are eased for applicants with strong personal ties to Japan.

Those born in Japan, long-term residents (10+ years), or spouses of Japanese nationals/permanent residents are eligible for eased requirements. Specifically, for spouses of Japanese nationals, the residence requirement and capacity requirement are relaxed. In other words, the usual conditions of “continuous residence in Japan for five years” and “being 20 years old or over” are not obstacles when the applicant is married to a Japanese spouse.

Ordinarily, ordinary naturalization requires five or more years of residence. However, under Article 7 of the Nationality Act, foreign nationals married to Japanese citizens who have been married for at least three years and have continuously lived in Japan for at least one year may be permitted simplified naturalization.

Similar to permanent residency, cases in which the couple previously lived overseas allow shortened periods after returning to Japan — if a full year passes after returning, naturalization eligibility may apply. However, unlike permanent residency, Japanese language proficiency is required, so caution is needed.

Additionally, under the first clause of Article 7, a foreign spouse who previously resided in Japan for three or more consecutive years and currently resides in Japan may also qualify for simplified naturalization.

For example, if a student has lived in Japan for over three years, they may be eligible for naturalization once they marry a Japanese citizen. The same applies to foreign workers — once they have lived in Japan for three years, marriage to a Japanese national may satisfy the naturalization requirements.

Unlike permanent residency, there is no requirement such as “must be married for three years.” If the applicant has already lived in Japan for three consecutive years, naturalization may be possible immediately upon marriage. Many applicants mistakenly believe they must wait three years from marriage, but this is not the case.

Note that in simplified naturalization, good conduct, financial stability, and language ability requirements are not relaxed. Additionally, Japanese spouse documents must also be collected, meaning document requirements may be more burdensome than for unmarried applicants. While eligibility conditions are relaxed, the application process itself is not simplified.

Even if married to a Japanese citizen, applicants with a history of overstay or who received Special Permission to Stay face higher hurdles. At ACROSEED Immigration Lawyer’s Office, we have a strong record of success for permanent residency in such cases, so we often recommend permanent residency first before attempting naturalization.

2. [Latest] Summary of Simplified Naturalization Requirements for Spouses of Japanese Nationals

Naturalization as a spouse of a Japanese national is based on Article 7 of the Nationality Act, which relaxes parts of the General Requirements under Article 5 — particularly requirements related to residence and legal capacity^※1.

3. Required Documents, Procedure Flow and Timeline for Naturalization

Many spouses of Japanese nationals/permanent residents wish to apply for naturalization at a particular turning point in life, such as when their child is about to start school or when the family’s living environment is changing.

Naturalization requires preparing a large number of documents, and in some cases the examination period can take close to one year. If you have a preferred timing to obtain Japanese nationality, it is important to calculate backwards and start the process early. At ACROSEED Immigration Lawyer's Office, we propose a step-by-step application plan so that you can acquire Japanese nationality in line with your desired schedule.

When a foreign spouse of a Japanese national applies for naturalization, the general flow is as follows.

4. Cases Likely to Be Approved / Cases Prone to Rejection in Naturalization for Spouses of Japanese Nationals

In naturalization applications by spouses of Japanese nationals/permanent residents, in addition to satisfying the legal requirements, a major focus of the examination is how stable the couple’s life is as a family unit. The examples below are only general trends, but they are typical factors that often influence approval or rejection.

1. Examples of cases likely to be approved

When the following factors are present, the applicant is more likely to be evaluated overall as having a “stable life in Japan,” which tends to lead to permission for naturalization.

• A longer period of marriage
  If a certain number of years has passed since marriage without major separation or serious problems, the marital relationship is more likely to be regarded as stable.
  In particular, the length of the relationship including the dating period and the duration of continuous cohabitation are important points of review.
• Stable household finances and proper tax payment
  If the applicant and/or the Japanese spouse has stable income, and resident tax, income tax, national health insurance and pension premiums have all been paid properly, this will be a major positive factor.
  Having no issues in several years of tax payment history is strong evidence that you are “fulfilling your responsibilities as a member of Japanese society.”
• Children attending school in Japan
  If your children attend Japanese elementary, junior high or high school, it is easier to conclude that your family’s living base is firmly rooted in Japan.
  Documents such as school enrollment certificates, report cards, and materials showing daily life in Japan can serve as useful supplementary evidence of the family’s actual situation.
• Sufficient adaptation to Japanese society in daily life and language
  Being able to communicate smoothly in Japanese in everyday situations and participating in local events or school activities are often evaluated positively as signs of integration into Japanese society.

You do not need to meet all of these conditions to be approved; however, the more items that apply, the more likely you are to receive a positive comprehensive assessment.

2. Examples of cases prone to rejection (risks specific to the spouse route)

Conversely, the following circumstances may increase the risk of rejection. In the spouse route, issues related to the reality of the marriage and the stability of household finances are particularly common points of concern.

• Short period of cohabitation as a married couple
  If only a short time has passed since marriage, or if the marriage is registered but the couple has spent little time actually living together, the Legal Affairs Bureau will examine the “reality of the marriage” very carefully.
  When the period of dating is short and it is difficult to clearly explain how you met, the marriage may be suspected of being temporary or formal.
• Unstable finances (frequent job changes or long periods of unemployment for the spouse)
  If the Japanese spouse frequently changes jobs and income fluctuates greatly, or if there are long periods of unemployment, the authorities may judge that there is uncertainty about the stability of future life in Japan.
  In such cases, you should be prepared to explain in detail the reasons for job changes, future employment plans and savings situation.
• Unpaid taxes or social insurance premiums
  Arrears or non-payment of resident tax, income tax, national health insurance premiums or pension contributions are serious negative factors in naturalization examinations.
  Since the payment status of the entire household is reviewed, including that of the Japanese spouse, it will not be accepted to argue that “those taxes are in my spouse’s name, so they are unrelated to me.”
• History of separation or inconsistencies in family information
  If the married couple has spent a certain period living separately, or if there are discrepancies between the application documents and the actual living situation, doubts may arise about the stability of the marriage.
  In cases where separation was unavoidable (such as work transfer, study abroad or caregiving), it is important to explain the reasons, duration and communication status carefully using objective evidence.

Even if one or more of the above circumstances apply, it is sometimes possible to reduce the risk by organizing the situation in advance and preparing appropriate explanatory documents.

If you are unsure whether your case is closer to a “likely to be approved” or “prone to rejection” pattern, we recommend consulting a specialist before filing your naturalization application.

5. Frequently Asked Questions about Naturalization for Spouses of Japanese Nationals

When a foreign spouse of a Japanese national wishes to naturalize, the standard condition is that the couple has been married for at least three years and the applicant has lived in Japan for at least one year. Therefore, as a general rule, it is not possible to apply for naturalization immediately after marriage. This period is considered necessary to confirm the reality of the marriage and the applicant’s ties to Japan.

However, if more than three years have passed since the marriage, the requirement may still be regarded as fulfilled even if part of that period was spent overseas, as long as the applicant has continuously lived in Japan for at least one year. It is important to check the details of your individual circumstances with the Legal Affairs Bureau.

Even if the marriage has lasted a long time, if the couple has not actually lived together or if the relationship is judged to lack substance, the application may be rejected. As supporting documents, you may be asked to submit items that prove the reality of the marriage, such as resident records, photos, chat histories (LINE, email, etc.), and evidence of sharing living expenses, so preparing these in advance will help the process go more smoothly.

Yes. If you have minor children, it is possible for them to apply for naturalization together with the parent. This is especially common when one of the parents is Japanese and the family is living together in the same household.

If the child naturalizes, it becomes easier to use Japanese systems smoothly, such as schools and medical services. In addition, since Japan does not permit dual nationality in principle, naturalization can help avoid issues related to future nationality choice.

However, in some situations it may be preferable for the child to apply for naturalization separately, for example:

For a child’s naturalization, a comprehensive judgment is required, taking into account factors such as age, parent–child relationship and educational environment. In particular, children aged 15 or older must express their own will, so it is important to explain the situation carefully and obtain their understanding.

A period of separation does not automatically result in refusal, but you will be asked to explain the stability of the marital relationship.
If the separation was due to unavoidable reasons such as work transfer, study abroad or caregiving, you can reduce the risk by explaining the reason, duration and communication situation with supporting documents.
On the other hand, if the reason for living separately is unclear or if there are contradictions between the contents of the application and your actual living situation, it may work against you in the examination.

In naturalization applications through a Japanese spouse, the authorities will review the tax and social insurance status of the entire household, not just the applicant personally.
If there are unpaid or overdue resident tax, income tax, national health insurance premiums or pension contributions, this will be a major negative factor in the naturalization examination.
It is extremely important to settle any unpaid amounts in advance and prepare documents that can prove your current payment status.

In naturalization examinations, the key question is whether the applicant and/or their household has “stable and continuous means of livelihood.” High income is not required, but the basic standards include factors such as “not receiving public assistance” and “not having a life that has collapsed due to excessive debt.”

For example, even if the applicant works part-time or on an hourly basis, the application may still be acceptable if the Japanese spouse’s income is stable and the household income as a whole is sufficient. In dual-income households and households with a certain level of savings, you can strengthen your case by submitting evidence of economic stability, such as bank balance certificates, payslips and tax certificates.

If you have a family member who supports you financially, that person’s income certificates and a written pledge of support can also be evaluated as part of your means of livelihood. If you have concerns, you should explain your situation in detail at the Legal Affairs Bureau’s pre-consultation and ask what kinds of documents can be submitted to supplement your application.

Even if your spouse is temporarily unemployed, you may still apply for naturalization as long as you can demonstrate that your household is able to maintain its day-to-day life.
You will need to show your future prospects for living in Japan, including the applicant’s income, savings, and any financial support from relatives.
The reasons for your spouse’s job change or resignation, as well as their future employment plans, are also important points of review, so it is advisable to整理 your situation carefully before applying.

Even for naturalization applications through a Japanese spouse, a level of Japanese sufficient for daily life is required.
More specifically, the guideline is reading, writing and speaking ability roughly equivalent to completion of Japanese elementary school. In the interview, the examiner will check whether you can describe your married life, work and family in Japanese.
If you are not confident in your Japanese, it is advisable to study in advance and to prepare for typical interview questions together so that you can answer more smoothly on the day.

7. Naturalization Application Support Services

1. Service Overview

When applying for naturalization as the spouse of a Japanese national or permanent resident, you must submit many documents that show the reality of the marriage, family relationships and household financial stability. In particular, it is essential to organize the overall family situation into one consistent “story” with no contradictions.

At ACROSEED Immigration Lawyer's Office, we focus on organizing evidence of the marital relationship, preparing the full set of application forms, supporting the drafting of the statement of reasons for naturalization, and reinforcing explanations of family relationships and income. We offer three support plans tailored to your individual situation.

Our services are ideal for those who feel, “We cannot整理 our couple’s documents,” “We are worried because there is a history of separation,” “We don’t know how to write an explanation of the reality of our marriage,” or “We are anxious about consulting the Legal Affairs Bureau on our own.”

Who this service is for

• Those who are married to a Japanese national or permanent resident and are considering naturalization (acquisition of Japanese nationality)
• Those who need to整理 and properly explain their circumstances regarding cohabitation period, length of marriage and household finances
• Those who need to確認 matters related to taxes, social insurance and dependent family members
• Those who are unsure how to prepare evidence of the reality of the marriage or how to draft the statement of reasons
• Those who wish to receive expert support from the first consultation through to completion of the statement of reasons

2. Service Plans for Spouses

Simplified Naturalization Support (Document Preparation + Accompaniment by Immigration Lawyer)

This plan is designed for “simplified naturalization” cases (such as spouses/children of Japanese nationals or children of permanent residents, where certain requirements are eased). In addition to document preparation, an immigration lawyer will fully support you with procedures at the Legal Affairs Bureau.

1. Creating a list of required documents and guidance on how to obtain them
2. Preparation of application forms and supporting documents
3. Support for drafting the statement of reasons for naturalization
4. Interview guidance
5. Accompaniment to the pre-consultation at the Legal Affairs Bureau
6. Accompaniment for filing the application at the Legal Affairs Bureau
7. Organizing documents and explaining requirements specific to simplified naturalization
8. Optimizing and reinforcing documents according to the applicant’s personal circumstances

*The interview itself is conducted by the applicant, but we provide advice on likely questions and how to answer them.

What is not included in this service

The following items are not included in this service:

• Attendance at the interview at the Legal Affairs Bureau (in principle, interviews are conducted with the applicant only)
• Free re-application in the event of refusal
• Direct代理 for obtaining documents from your home country (we can, however, advise you on how to obtain them)

3. Why choose ACROSEED

Why clients choose ACROSEED


• Founded in 1986; industry-leading 40,000+ visa filings
• 99.9% approval rate; trusted by many clients
• No travel expenses; flat fees nationwide
• Extensive track record in complex/re-application after refusal cases
• No add-on fees; transparent pricing
• Free re-application until approval if refused
• Support available in Japanese, English, and Chinese

Founded in 1986, with 40,000+ visa applications

ACROSEED was founded in 1986. Since 1990—the first year administrative scriveners were allowed to handle immigration under the law—we have specialized in immigration work. Our total filings exceed 40,000 (as of March 2025).

We currently handle 3,000–4,000 visa filings annually, visiting immigration twice a week to stay current on examinations and legal changes.

By choosing ACROSEED, you get services based on the latest examination trends and the industry’s deepest practical experience.

99.9% approval rate—peace of mind backed by clients’ trust

Since opening in 1986, ACROSEED has always prioritized trustworthy services. At the free consultation stage, if approval seems unlikely, we explain this and decline the engagement.

As a result, we have maintained an approval rate of 99%+ (including re-applications) since opening.

However, for cases with a viable chance where clients wish to proceed, we will make a maximum effort together.

Our attentive, tailored service has earned broad support from clients.

No travel fees—flat rates nationwide

Our office is in Nagatacho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, but we handle immigration cases nationwide at flat rates with no travel expenses.

For distant clients, we offer online consultations via Skype or Zoom so you can speak face-to-face with your consultant just like an in-person visit.

Strong results in difficult and re-application cases

We have many approvals for cases repeatedly refused by clients on their own or by other law firms.

ACROSEED’s track record is unparalleled, and we are often referred the most difficult cases from around the country—operating like a “general hospital” for the industry.

Don’t give up—consult us even for seemingly difficult cases.

No add-on fees—transparent pricing

Our service fees are only those listed on our website.

We do not add fees due to client circumstances such as frequent travel or prior refusals.

We provide a transparent pricing system for your peace of mind.

Free re-application until approval if refused

If a case filed by ACROSEED is unfortunately refused, we will re-apply free of charge as long as there remains a possibility of approval.

While some competitors offer “full refunds if refused,” we believe refunds do not solve the client’s problem.

Accepting a case casually and leaving a refusal record in your filing history can make approval much harder later.

Clients who choose ACROSEED from among many firms deserve our stance of “getting the fastest approval possible—and if refused, supporting relentlessly until approval.”

4. Fees for Naturalization Application Support (Excluding Tax)

We also offer accompaniment to the pre-consultation at 20,000 yen per visit (excluding tax). For clients who entrust their case to ACROSEED Immigration Lawyer's Office, the same amount will be discounted from the fee at the time of signing the contract.

・Payments by Visa and MasterCard are accepted.

Simplified Naturalization

8.Related Pages Often Read Together with Naturalization Applications

[2025 Edition] Japan Naturalization Guide | Requirements, Documents & Application Process

A clear and comprehensive guide covering the latest 2025 requirements, required documents, key review points, application flow, and interview preparation. Also explains nationality renunciation considerations, FAQs, and three service plans.

Naturalization Guide for Spouses of Japanese Nationals

Naturalization through marriage generally requires 3+ years of marriage history and 1+ year of residence in Japan (as a rule). Learn key review points such as the “genuineness of marriage,” “financial stability,” and “Japanese language ability,” plus how cases with children are assessed and common refusal patterns.

Naturalization from a Work Visa (Engineer/Specialist in Humanities/International Services)

Detailed explanation for foreign employees: requirements, required years, income standards, and how changing jobs affects screening. Covers differences based on employment style and tax status, the latest trends in review timelines, and practical strategies to avoid refusal.

Naturalization Guide for Highly Skilled Professional (HSP) Visa Holders

For applicants considering naturalization from HSP (Type 1 / Type 2). Explains situations where screening may be relatively favorable, and factors that require extra caution (e.g., research-track roles, job stability, and continuity of activities).

Naturalization Guide for Business Manager Visa Holders

Experts explain common stumbling points for business owners: business stability, tax compliance, executive compensation design, and social insurance handling. Includes review tendencies reflected from 2025 onward.

Naturalization Guide for Permanent Residents

The final step for permanent residents to become Japanese nationals. Organizes required documents, review timelines, and how decisions differ by family structure, plus preparation to avoid refusal and a clear comparison of “Permanent Residence vs Naturalization.”

Naturalization Guide for Long-Term Resident Visa Holders

For Long-Term Residents (spouse-based long-term, child of a Japanese national, stepchild, Nikkei-related statuses, etc.). Explains key requirements, documents, what examiners focus on, and Japanese language expectations by typical case type.

Naturalization Guide for Special Permanent Residents

Covers background of the制度, screening characteristics, how to write the reason statement for naturalization, and important notes about nationality choices within the family—tailored for Special Permanent Residents.

More In-Depth Questions About Japan Naturalization

Naturalization vs Permanent Residence in Japan: A Complete Comparison (2025)
Can You Apply for Naturalization with Less Than 3 Years of Work? Latest Standards & Approval Points
Naturalization and Time Outside Japan: Guidelines for “5+ Continuous Years” and Key Cautions
Naturalization Required Documents List: 2025 Latest Checklist by Case Type
Naturalization Requirements (7 Conditions): Expert Guide to Obtaining Japanese Nationality
My child has dual nationality (Japan & the U.S.). Are any procedures required?
Should You Hire an Administrative Scrivener for Naturalization? Benefits, Fees, and How to Choose
Income Requirements for Naturalization: How Much Is Needed and How “Ability to Support a Living” Is Judged
Traffic Violations & Minor Offenses in Naturalization: Do Parking Tickets or Criminal Records Matter?
Required Japanese Level for Naturalization: Speaking, Reading/Writing, and Interview Benchmarks
Are Taxes, Insurance, and Pension Critical for Naturalization? Does Non-Payment Lead to Refusal?
Renunciation of Prior Nationality: Country-by-Country Guidance (China, Korea, U.S., and More)
Residence Years & Time Abroad for Naturalization: 5-Year / 3-Year Rules and Key Judgment Points
Reasons for Naturalization Refusal: Common “Rejected at Intake” Cases and Timing to Reapply