The major difference between permanent residence and naturalization is that with naturalization, the person acquires Japanese nationality. A foreign national must make a naturalization application in order to acquire Japanese nationality; as Japan does not recognize dual nationality, the person must abandon the nationality of his or her country of birth. Because of this, it is not possible for a person to obtain Japanese nationality automatically without obtaining the permission of the Minister of Justice (though, for example, marrying a Japanese national or becoming the adopted child of a Japanese national).
The naturalization application is made at a District Legal Affairs Bureau. When permission is given, the status of residence ceases to exist, the person enters the Japanese family register, obtains rights such as resident registration and the right to vote, and has tax- and work-related obligations as a Japanese person. For details, please enquire at your nearest District Legal Affairs Bureau. Fee: Handing fee necessary.