How do I change my name to a Japanese one after naturalisation?

This article is a translation of the Japanese original. Where the two differ, the Japanese version prevails. Read the Japanese original（日本語版を読む）

What is this enquiry about?

A guide for people who are unsure whether to change their name to a Japanese one after naturalisation is granted.

Do I have to change my name when I naturalise?

No. You can enter your foreign-style name in the family register just as it is.

To put the answer first: you do not have to change your name to a Japanese one when you naturalise. The foreign-style name you have used until now can be entered in the Japanese family register just as it is.

On the other hand, if you think about daily life in Japan, a Japanese-style name can make conversation and paperwork go more smoothly. Think it over carefully, in the light of your own way of life and your plans for the future.

When do I go through the procedure to change my name?

There are 2 ways: stating the name you want at the time of the 帰化許可申請, or applying to the family court after permission is granted.

1. At the time of the 帰化許可申請: you can write the new name you want on the 帰化許可申請書 (application form for naturalisation). In this case, the new name is entered in the family register at the same time as naturalisation is granted.
2. After naturalisation is granted: you can also change your name after naturalisation, with the permission of the family court. This, however, means a separate procedure and more time.

In most cases, asking for the new name at the time of the 帰化許可申請 is smoother.

Points to note when you write the name on the application

The 帰化許可申請書 has a box for the new name you want. Write the surname and the given name there.

• Follow the rules on which characters you may use.
• Write the reading alongside, in furigana.
• If there is a box for the reason, such as the link with a name you already use (通称名), fill it in concretely.

Applying to the family court after naturalisation

If you change your name after naturalisation, you must apply to the family court that covers your address for permission to change your surname (氏の変更許可) or your given name (名の変更許可).

• The application form for permission to change the surname, or the application form for permission to change the given name
• A certified copy of the applicant's family register
• Material proving the reason for the change (for example, documents showing that you have used the name as a 通称名 for many years)
• Revenue stamps

After the family court has examined the case and given permission, you take a certified copy of the ruling and a notification of the change of name to the municipal office, and the name in the family register is changed. This takes more time and effort than asking for the name at the time of the naturalisation application, so unless you have a special reason, we recommend asking for the new name when you apply for naturalisation.

What rules apply to the new name?

The family register accepts 常用漢字, 人名用漢字, hiragana and katakana. Letters of the alphabet and symbols cannot be used.

• Characters you may use: the characters that can be entered in a Japanese family register are 常用漢字 (kanji for general use), 人名用漢字 (kanji approved for personal names), hiragana and katakana. Letters of the alphabet, symbols and the like cannot be used.
• Length: there is no particular limit, but in general people choose a length that causes no trouble in daily life.
• Reading: the reading too should not be unnatural by ordinary social standards.

Things to think about when choosing a name

Choosing a new name is an important step in forming a new identity. Here are some points to consider.

• Sound: does it sound natural and friendly in Japanese? We recommend saying it out loud.
• Meaning of the kanji: if you choose kanji, look up what they mean.
• Stroke count: some people take name-divination into account.
• Links with family: some people choose a name that keeps a link with their family or relatives.
• Your future: think about the life you want to lead in Japanese society, and choose a name that fits it.
• Easy to read and write: you will use it every day, so a name that is easy to read and write is convenient.
• Balance with your surname: if your surname is changing, think about how the given name and the surname fit together.

If you cannot decide, it can help to think of several candidates and ask Japanese people around you what they think.

What do I have to do after my name has changed?

Once the new name is in the family register, change the name on your identity documents, your bank accounts and so on, one by one.

• Driving licence: driving licence test centre or police station
• Passport: passport application counter
• Bank accounts: each financial institution
• Health insurance card: your health insurance society or the municipal office
• Pension book: the pension office
• My Number card: the municipal office
• Credit cards, membership cards and so on: each service provider

Do not forget these steps, so that life under your new name starts smoothly. For the whole flow of the related procedures, please also see the procedures you need to follow after naturalisation is granted.

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Articles

• Applying for 帰化 (naturalisation) as a whole family: does everyone need Japanese ability?
• The steps you need to take after 帰化 (naturalisation) is granted
• What happens to your 在留カード after naturalisation is approved?
• The statement of motivation for naturalisation: how do you write one that moves the examiner?

This article provides general information. Immigration rules change, and outcomes depend on individual circumstances. Please check the Immigration Services Agency website or consult a qualified specialist.
This page is a translation of the Japanese original. Where the two differ, the Japanese version prevails.