residence

June 30, 2017

Is it possible to request a copy of foreigner registration records in Japan?

The Ministry of Justice will accept requests for disclosure of alien registration records for foreigners living in Japan.  Having a copy of these records can help foreign nationals clarify the source of their immigration problems or provide evidence in an immigration dispute.  However, these records contain very private information and therefore, the Ministry of Justice takes great care to avoid disclosing them to the wrong person.  The ministry does this by ensuring that only applications for disclosure by certain people will be accepted.
June 13, 2017

What is the family registration system in Japan?

The family registration system is used in Japan to register Japanese citizens from birth until death.  In this way, the family register acts as a birth certificate, death certificate, proof of marriage and proof of divorce.  It also can be used to certify Japanese citizenship.  The family register, as the name suggests, is based upon familial relationships and parents, children and spouses will all usually be listed in the same register under a shared last name.
June 8, 2017

Is it easier for spouses of Japanese nationals to become Japanese permanent residents?

In order to obtain Japanese permanent residency, there is a list of requirements that the applicant must meet.  Some of these requirements include the amount of time spent living in Japan, proof of good conduct and sufficient economic resources, among other things.  However, for spouses of Japanese citizens, these requirements are relaxed in order to make it easier for them to obtain permanent residence in Japan.
April 10, 2017

Does a change of name or address need to be reported in Japan?

When information on a foreign national’s residence card becomes out-of-date, it is the foreign national’s duty to report the change to the local ward office or immigration office.  Most information should be reported to the relevant office within 14 days, although there are some exceptions.  Changes to address should be reported to the ward office, while other changes, such as nationality, name or gender should be reported to the immigration office.