Japan’s Upper House lawmaker Hirofumi Yanagase has ignited debate by urging stricter naturalization rules, claiming it’s currently easier to become a Japanese citizen than a permanent resident — a concern he says could have long-term political implications.
Naturalization currently requires just five years of residency and one year of tax records, compared to the ten years (or five under certain conditions) and five years of tax history required for permanent residency. This has led to a growing number of foreign nationals — particularly from China, Korea, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka — opting for naturalization instead.
Visa specialists report a sharp shift in preference, with around 80% of foreign applicants at some firms now choosing the citizenship route. Yanagase expressed concerns that newer residents may not be familiar enough with Japanese society to vote or run in elections and proposed aligning Japan’s system with countries like Germany or South Korea, where permanent residency is a prerequisite for citizenship.
Citing national security risks and potential foreign political influence, particularly from China, Yanagase has even proposed revoking citizenship in certain cases and limiting voting rights for first-generation naturalized citizens.
While some see his stance as national security-driven, critics warn it risks fueling xenophobic rhetoric. Nevertheless, the debate highlights a growing tension between integration and immigration in an aging, globalizing Japan.
FAQs:
Q1: Why is Japan considering stricter naturalization rules now?
A: Lawmakers are concerned that Japan’s current rules make it easier to become a citizen than a permanent resident, potentially allowing foreign nationals with limited cultural integration to vote and influence domestic politics.
Q2: What changes are being proposed?
A: Suggestions include requiring permanent residency before naturalization, limiting voting rights for first-generation citizens, and making citizenship revocable for national security threats.
Source: https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/06/20/japan/politics/naturalization-permanent-residency/
