Japanese nationality law

The primary law governing nationality of Japan is the 1950 Nationality Law, which came into force on July 1, 1950.

Children born to at least one Japanese parent are generally automatically nationals at birth. Birth in Japan does not by itself entitle a child to Japanese nationality, except when a child would otherwise be stateless. Foreign nationals may acquire citizenship by naturalization after living in the country for at least five years and renouncing any previous nationalities.