According to the latest statistics released by Japan’s Ministry of Justice, in 2024 roughly 8,800 foreigners obtained Japanese nationality, that is, were granted naturalization. Among them, about 3,100 came from China, surpassing the number from Korea and North Korea for the first time in about 50 years. Additionally, the number of naturalized citizens from other countries such as Nepal and Sri Lanka has also increased, doubling over five years.
Naturalization refers to the system in which foreigners apply and the Japanese Minister of Justice grants them Japanese nationality. The Ministry of Justice stated that there are “no written regulations” for examination standards or standard processing times, and there is also no objection/appeals mechanism. The general requirements for naturalization are as follows: 1. Have legally resided in Japan for more than 5 years; 2. Be at least 18 years old; 3. Have good conduct; 4. Be able to maintain a livelihood; 5. Renounce original nationality (dual nationality is not permitted); 6. Abide by the constitution. In addition, applicants are required to have a level of Japanese conversation and literacy that does not impede daily life.
In contrast, the requirements for obtaining a permanent residency “permanent resident” visa are actually stricter. In principle, one must reside in Japan for more than 10 years, while naturalization only requires 5 years. As a result, some criticize that “there is now a reversal phenomenon where naturalization has become easier than obtaining a permanent resident visa.”
According to a report by Sankei Shimbun, official data shows that 8,863 people were granted naturalization in Reiwa 6 (2024). Since the annual data release began in Showa 42 (1967), the highest annual number was 17,633 in Heisei 15 (2003). In recent years, the number has generally remained between 7,000 and 9,000, with fluctuations influenced by economic and other conditions.
By nationality, except for 1973, the largest group of naturalized citizens has always been from Korea or North Korea. But last year, 3,122 naturalized citizens came from China, surpassing the 2,283 from Korea and North Korea for the first time.
On the other hand, in recent years, the number of naturalized citizens from South Asian countries such as Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Myanmar has also increased. The number of naturalized citizens from countries other than China, Korea, and North Korea increased from 1,719 in Reiwa 1 (2019) to 3,458 in five years, a twofold growth.