Regarding a Naturalization Application for a Filipino Citizen

Our office has extensive experience supporting naturalization applications for clients of various nationalities, ages, and occupations.

This article highlights the key points for applicants of Philippine nationality who wish to apply for Japanese naturalization.

Required Documents for Filipino Applicants

The Philippines does not have documents equivalent to Japan’s “Certificate of Nationality” or “Family Register.”
Therefore, personal status and family relationships are verified using official documents issued by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).

Main PSA-Issued Documents

• Birth Certificates

  • Applicant
    Only the applicant’s birth certificate requires an Apostille.

  • Applicant’s parents

  • Applicant’s children

• Marriage Certificates

  • Applicant’s parents

  • Applicant (if married)

• Divorce Certificates (if applicable)

  • Applicant’s parents

  • Applicant

• Death Certificates (if applicable)

  • Applicant’s parents

  • Applicant’s children

PSA and Apostille

The PSA offers an online application and delivery service for birth, marriage, and death certificates, including international delivery to Japan.

An Apostille is an official certification under the 1961 Hague Convention.
Since both Japan and the Philippines are parties to the Convention, the Japanese Legal Affairs Bureau requires an Apostille only for the applicant’s birth certificate.
No Apostille is required for the birth certificates of the applicant’s parents or children, nor for marriage certificates of the applicant or the applicant’s parents.

Nationality After Naturalization

Japan does not recognize dual nationality. After naturalization approval, the applicant must complete the procedure to renounce Philippine nationality at the Embassy of the Republic of the Philippines.
An online appointment is required.

If you are considering naturalization from Philippine nationality to Japanese nationality, we provide careful support from document preparation through application.
Please feel free to contact us for a consultation.