What happens to your 在留カード after naturalisation is approved?

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 want to know what to do with the 在留カード after naturalisation is approved.

What happens to the effect of the 在留カード?

Approval of naturalisation ends its effect, and it can no longer be used as identification.

The foreign resident registration system was abolished on 9 July 2012, and since then the 在留カード has been issued instead. If you still hold a certificate issued before the system was abolished and have not switched to a 在留カード, that certificate too loses its effect when naturalisation is approved. A 在留カード issued on or after 9 July 2012 also loses its effect when naturalisation is approved. Once naturalisation is approved, neither can be used as identification.

What is the duty to return it, and how do I do it?

You must return it promptly to the 地方出入国在留管理局, and there are 3 ways to do so.

After your naturalisation is approved and you acquire Japanese nationality, you have a duty to return your 在留カード promptly to the 地方出入国在留管理局. This is a procedure laid down by law, and failing to do it may bring a penalty.

1. Returning it at your city or ward office: when you submit the 国籍取得届 (notification of acquisition of nationality), hand your 在留カード in at the counter at the same time. The office staff take it and later send it on to the 地方出入国在留管理局. What to bring: your 在留カード, the notice of approval of naturalisation (or a copy of it), and your seal (just in case).
2. Returning it directly to the 地方出入国在留管理局: take it to the counter that covers your area. What to bring: your 在留カード, the notice of approval of naturalisation (the original or a copy), identification, and your seal.
3. Returning it by post: if for unavoidable reasons it is hard for you to go to a counter, check first with the 地方出入国在留管理局 that covers your area, and send it as instructed. What to send (example): your 在留カード (the original), a copy of the notice of approval of naturalisation, a document giving the name, address and contact details of the person returning it, and a copy of your identification (if you are asked for it).

Some city and ward offices do not accept returns, or need a different procedure, so we recommend checking in advance. If you send it by post, we recommend a trackable method such as registered mail, to avoid the risk of the item being lost in transit.

Is there a deadline, and what should I check after returning it?

No clear deadline is set in law, but return it promptly and keep the receipt.

The law sets no clear deadline for returning it, but you are expected to return it promptly once naturalisation is approved. If you delay, a breach of the 入管法 (Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act) cannot be ruled out, so please complete the procedure quickly. When you return it, always take a receipt and keep it safe. It is an important document that proves you completed the return.

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Articles

• If I hold 永住許可, what advantages do I have when I apply for naturalisation?
• My naturalisation was denied. What should I watch out for when I apply again?
• How do I change my name to a Japanese one after naturalisation?
• What is naturalisation? The kinds, the conditions and how the procedure goes

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.