Expert Explanation! Key Points for a Smooth and Error-Free Submission

---

1. Introduction

Once you have completed your preliminary preparations, the next step is preparing and submitting your naturalization application forms.

The documents you submit are critical for the screening process. Any mistakes or missing information can delay the process or even result in your application being rejected.

In this article, we will explain how to fill out the necessary forms, how to write the Statement of Purpose for Naturalization, and the steps for submitting your application.

---

2. How to Fill Out the Naturalization Application Forms

The naturalization application requires various documents, and properly filling them out is essential for a successful application.

✅ Main Application Documents for Naturalization

📌 Naturalization Application Form (provided by the Legal Affairs Bureau)
📌 Statement of Purpose for Naturalization (written in Japanese)
📌 Personal History Form (includes educational background, work history, and family information)
📌 Overview of Relatives (includes details about family members in Japan and abroad)
📌 Financial Status Report (details about income, expenses, and assets)
📌 Housing Information Report (details about your residence)

👉 You will receive these forms at your preliminary consultation with the Legal Affairs Bureau.

---

✅ Key Points for Filling Out the Forms

📌 Use a black ballpoint pen or type the forms on a computer
→ Do not use a pencil or erasable pen!

📌 Write everything in Japanese
→ If you don’t know certain kanji, you can use hiragana or katakana (but not English letters).

📌 Do not use correction fluid or tape
→ If you make a mistake, cross it out with a double line and add a correction seal (hanko).

📌 Ensure consistency across all documents
→ For example, if your employment history does not match your tax records, it may cause problems during the screening process.

📌 The applicant must complete the forms themselves
→ However, if your Japanese ability is insufficient, you can seek help from a lawyer or administrative scrivener.

---

3. How to Write the Statement of Purpose for Naturalization (Most Important Document!)

The Statement of Purpose for Naturalization is one of the most important documents in the application. You must clearly explain why you want to obtain Japanese nationality.

✅ Basic Structure of the Statement of Purpose

① Self-Introduction (Name, Nationality, and Time Spent in Japan)

• Example: “My name is 〇〇. I was born in 〇〇 (country) and came to Japan in 〇〇 (year).”

② Experiences Living and Working in Japan

• Example: “I currently work at 〇〇 Company in Japan, handling 〇〇 tasks.”
• Example: “I have been living in Japan for 〇 years and have adapted to Japanese culture and customs.”

③ Reasons for Applying for Naturalization (Most Important Part!)

• I want to contribute to Japanese society
• I want to live in Japan with my family
• I need Japanese nationality for work or education
• I want to ensure a stable life in Japan

④ Future Goals After Obtaining Japanese Nationality

• How you will contribute to Japanese society (Example: “I want to start a business in Japan” or “I want to contribute to my local community.”)

⑤ Words of Gratitude & Closing Remarks

• Example: “I want to continue living in Japan with integrity and contribute as a responsible member of society.”

---

✅ Tips for Writing the Statement of Purpose

✔ Be clear and concise (not too long)
✔ Avoid vague reasons like “I like Japan” – give concrete details
✔ Use polite Japanese and check for spelling mistakes

---

4. How to Submit the Application and What to Expect on the Submission Day

Once your documents are complete, you must submit your official application at the Legal Affairs Bureau.

✅ What to Bring When Submitting Your Application

✅ Completed application forms
✅ Original and copy of your passport and residence card
✅ Personal seal (hanko), if required

---

✅ Submission Day Procedure

📌 ① Check-in at the reception desk
→ Tell the reception staff, “I am here to submit my naturalization application.”

📌 ② Document Review (Officer Will Check Your Forms)
→ If there are missing or incorrect documents, you may need to resubmit them.

📌 ③ Scheduling the Interview
→ After submission, you will be scheduled for an interview at the Legal Affairs Bureau within 1 to 3 months.

👉 In the next article, we will cover the interview questions and preparation tips!

---

5. Conclusion: Accuracy Is Key for a Successful Application

In the naturalization screening process, the accuracy of your documents is crucial.

📌 Use a black pen or type the application on a computer
📌 Write a clear and specific Statement of Purpose
📌 Check for errors and ensure consistency in your documents
📌 Bring all required documents when submitting your application

A well-prepared application speeds up the process and improves your chances of approval.

In Part 4, we will discuss "The Interview Process at the Legal Affairs Bureau and Common Questions."