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Japan-born American files suit against Japan's dual nationality ban

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Japan doesn’t like people having their cake and eating it.

Happiness and equality aren’t really concepts that are considered by any ‘government’ let alone the Japanese one.

Kondo doesn’t have a chance.

11 ( +43 / -32 )

Go for it, hope she can win her case.

52 ( +70 / -18 )

Good luck to her. I hope she wins, don’t think she will, though.

36 ( +50 / -14 )

I wish her the best, but the constitution and nationality law seem to be rather clear. Might be best to address this issue through legislation.

Constitution of Japan, Article 10. The conditions necessary for being a Japanese national shall be determined by law.

Nationality Law, Article 11. A Japanese national shall lose Japanese nationality when he or she acquires a foreign nationality by his or her own choice.

23 ( +30 / -7 )

 "....violates the right to pursue happiness and equality...."

Well, that's a stretch. There are tons of things integral to Japanese culture and society that "violate the right to pursue happiness and equality" -- all of them perfectly legal.

-1 ( +14 / -15 )

Good luck. Japans ministry of so called justice has completely abused the constitution Japan was given.

-3 ( +21 / -24 )

Nationality Law, Article 11. A Japanese national shall lose Japanese nationality when he or she acquires a foreign nationality by his or her own choice.

Aslaman7, thank you for pointing out a distinction I wasn't aware of. My children were born in Japan and acquired dual citizenship at birth. While technically, they were obliged under Japanese law to choose one or the other at the age of 20, they've both followed the "don't ask, don't tell" principle and thus, now in their late twenties, retain both. Technically speaking, though, their nationalities are not of their own choice as their parents made that choice for them at the time of their birth.

I'd like to see that loophole challenged in court someday (but not by my kids - I'd rather they continue to keep their heads low).

35 ( +40 / -5 )

I’d like to see this law changed. Its worse for people who are born with dual nationality. My kids are dual citizens (Japan from mom, Canada from me) and this stupid rule will force them to choose to reject half of their own identity when they are 22. And for what? This rule serves no useful purpose that I can see. Its just an arbitrary way of screwing with people. And it hurts Japan too. Its by no means guaranteed that my kids will choose to keep their Japanese nationality and if the law forces them to give it up then that is two less young people for Japan, something the country can ill afford to be losing.

30 ( +38 / -8 )

violates the right to pursue happiness and equality as guaranteed by the Constitution.

These do not sounds like very Japanese principles. I suspect someone else wrote this.

15 ( +26 / -11 )

She argues on the grounds of "equality." How can be equal, when most people are limited to one nationality and others are allowed to have multiple nationalities? I imagine the Japanese mindset doesn't view that situation as "equal" at all.

@Asiaman

shall lose Japanese nationality when he or she acquires a foreign nationality by his or her own choice.

"Choice" refers to the acquiring of another nationality, I believe. For example, the Japanese stuck in Manchuria after the Pacific War or the N. Korean abductees can argue their never had a choice.

-5 ( +9 / -14 )

The courts in Japan are there to give fake legitimacy to the government. Don't expect this to go anywhere.

12 ( +26 / -14 )

Japan is not the only country that does not allow dual nationality...

9 ( +26 / -17 )

Happiness and equality aren’t really concepts that are considered by any ‘government’ let alone the Japanese one.

This applies only to Japanese, not to foreigners. She gave up her Japanese nationality, case closed.

-14 ( +11 / -25 )

Among other countries, the Netherlands and Norway also ban dual citizenship. Keep wasting your time, Ms Kondo. If your Japanese citizenship was so important to you, you shouldn’t have given it up in the first place.

-14 ( +18 / -32 )

She will not win as she voluntarily took another citizenship.

The challenge I was to see is someone born dual challenging the 22 year old must choose law.

This is unconstitutional as those born dual to parents from countries that do not permit renouncing citizenship are given an exemption to the no dual citizenship rule/law.

So a USA, UK, Canada, Australia Germany, etc... Born Japanese dual must choose at 22 but a Morocco, Mexico, etc.. get to keep dual because those countries don't permit renouncing citizenship.

In this case she was not born dual so basically no chance just like the previous people lost

2 ( +12 / -10 )

I wish her luck. This dual nationality law is stupid, especially in a country with a declining population.

18 ( +35 / -17 )

This is one of the issues that Japan would benefit from changing. Of course, Japan could, and should be selective as to with which countries their nationals can hold dual citizenship, based on reciprocal relations and other factors.

6 ( +15 / -9 )

She renounce her American citizenship, problem solve ,you can get strip of American citizenship ,by commiting Crimes

-21 ( +3 / -24 )

Good luck!

11 ( +14 / -3 )

Interesting approach for the lawsuit, not likely to win at all but if this could open discussion maybe in the future the situation could change.

15 ( +18 / -3 )

On the general issue, different countries handle dual nationality differently, so there may be no right answer.

It's probably not connected to this lawsuit, but anyone born Japanese but who took another country's nationality was presumably locked out of Japan during the pandemic. Such people would still need to apply for special circumstances to visit family etc. to get in today. Once you lose your Japanese passport, you will come here as a tourist. You can't work here any more either.

As AntiqueSaving mentions, the law does not treat everyone the same about this, depending on whether you were born a dual citizen. There is a parallel with someone marrying a non-Japanese, who may retain a different surname to their spouse. Two Japanese who marry cannot do this.

7 ( +9 / -2 )

Wish her the best but she is going to loose because she actively “acquired” US citizenship. Completely different from being born in Japan to a foreign parent and Japanese spouse, where you get both nationality at birth.

8 ( +13 / -5 )

violates the right to pursue happiness and equality as guaranteed by the Constitution.

To be fair, i don't see how owning two passport is gonna allow them to pursue happiness and equality. What's wrong with just having one? Less problems with taxation plus you aren't bound by two different countries laws. Is not all sunshine having two. Is a whole nightmare to navigate the law between two countries.

I see having two passport a way for people to exploit the system and try to seek a escape path in case they land themselves in trouble. Most people see having dual passport as some kind of backup plan to run away as soon one country encounter some trouble.

-12 ( +7 / -19 )

Go for it, hope she can win her case.

I'm not sure she'll win, but I wish her luck. If she does win, then that will pave the way for others in the same boat, like my Japanese born daughters with dual citizenship.

10 ( +13 / -3 )

Of course, Japan could, and should be selective as to with which countries their nationals can hold dual citizenship, based on reciprocal relations and other factors.

That's a good point. agree

-1 ( +5 / -6 )

Let's look at the geta on the other ashi: Americans trying to renounce their nationality. Some have asked me why I do not acquire Japanese nationality, as an American friend of mine did; the answer is that I do not want to give up my US nationality, which I would have to do (and my friend did). Then their are so-called "“accidental Americans” - those born in the US but raised abroad (usually in the country of their parents' birth) and have no ties to the US, physical, emotional, or family. They are still considered US nationals, subject to US law and taxes, unless they complete the time-consuming and complicated task of renouncing. Boris Johnson is such a case: he was born in New York but has not lived in the US since he was five; outraged by having to pay the US tax authorities for gains on the sale of his London home, he managed to renounce his citizenship in 2017,. https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2021/dec/31/americans-seeking-renounce-citizenship-stuck

8 ( +8 / -0 )

This is part of the naturalization oath she would have sworn in 2004 before becoming a US citizen. Can you really blame Japan for rejecting citizens who voluntarily swear this oath?

"I hereby declare, on oath, that I absolutely and entirely renounce and abjure all allegiance and fidelity to any foreign prince, potentate, state, or sovereignty, of whom or which I have heretofore been a subject or citizen"

It's one thing to allow exceptions for Japanese children born with dual nationality, but it's quite another to accept people who voluntarily take citizenship in a country which requires you to swear an oath renouncing all allegiance to Japan.

-3 ( +3 / -6 )

rainydayToday  07:19 am JST

I’d like to see this law changed. Its worse for people who are born with dual nationality. My kids are dual citizens (Japan from mom, Canada from me) and this stupid rule will force them to choose to reject half of their own identity when they are 22. And for what? This rule serves no useful purpose that I can see. Its just an arbitrary way of screwing with people. And it hurts Japan too. Its by no means guaranteed that my kids will choose to keep their Japanese nationality and if the law forces them to give it up then that is two less young people for Japan, something the country can ill afford to be losing.

I know of a few who have dual citizenship (US/JP) and when they were coming back to Japan, immigration demanded they make a choice. The choose Japanese but the US views that as coercion, so their US Citizenship did not get revoked and their US Passport is still valid. Apparently, and take this with a grain of salt, the only way to give up US Citizenship in Japan is if you do it at a US Embassy/Consulate or when you are in the US.

It also seems like they go through the same thing every 5-10 years. JP Immigration says choose, they choose JP, US doesn't recognize it and their dual citizenship stays intact...

MeiyouwentiToday  07:34 am JST

Among other countries, the Netherlands and Norway also ban dual citizenship. Keep wasting your time, Ms Kondo. If your Japanese citizenship was so important to you, you shouldn’t have given it up in the first place.

I think you need to research a bit more about dual citizenship.

The Netherlands doesn't exactly ban all dual citizenship. If you are married to someone with a different citizenship you can have dual. Also dual citizenship by decent is allowed. So kids born to parents with different citizenships are allowed to keep both forever.

Also as of Feb 3rd, 2020 Norway allows dual citizenship.

15 ( +15 / -0 )

Japan have understand its position and understand that here is 2022 year already so its time to defrost and let people get dual citizenship.I see nothing wrong with that as in my country this is OK and in accord with our constitution.I see no reason why Japan cant step back in this case?

-2 ( +4 / -6 )

Why not just get a permanent resident visa? She wasn’t forced to become an American, and as a lawyer, if she didn’t know about Japanese law, and her status, I would recommend that if you need a lawyer, she is not the smartest cookie in the jar.

-13 ( +5 / -18 )

Best of Luck to her and she has a good argument! The problem is the Japanese constitution has many hypocritical flaws in it!

she has a good case in most Law abiding countries though,

-4 ( +4 / -8 )

Some years back I read a piece that estimated the number of Japanese citizens with a second passport to be between 750,000 - 1,000,000. While I do not know the particulars of this person's situation, I do know that my daughter who is in her late 20s is a dual American - Japanese citizen and I know plenty of others of her generation who are as well. I contacted a lawyer when she was approaching 21 years of age who told me not to worry about it because there is no agency to enforce this law and as long as we kept quiet and did not try to enter Japan on an American passport we had no worries.

14 ( +14 / -0 )

Good luck. It has zero chance of being successful though.

4 ( +6 / -2 )

"Wish her the best but she is going to loose because she actively “acquired” US citizenship. Completely different from being born in Japan to a foreign parent and Japanese spouse, where you get both nationality at birth."

Go into any Japanese consulate in the world and you will see signs stating that one has to choose between citizenship by the age of 21 years old if one was born with dual citizenship. As I stated in my previous post, there is no agency to enforce this.

7 ( +7 / -0 )

this is exactly why I decided not to register my soon at my consulate and give him another passport, Japan nationality is already pretty enough for us and I don’t want him to be give. an ultimatum on his 18th (21th?) birthday by these crooks.

If one day he decides to move abroad I’m sure he will be more than welcome to get a visa and later his citizenship from a normal country.

-8 ( +3 / -11 )

Gambate kondo San, many Japanese citizens with dual nationality are willing you to win this case so they can legally keep their 2nd nationality. It’s a benefit to keep both for work or study, nothing is lost by allowing holders to keep the 2nd passport.,

6 ( +8 / -2 )

a couple of years ago there was a scandal where a few LDP ministers were found to have acquired US citizenship.

talk about hypocrisy from the J-gov.

-4 ( +6 / -10 )

When I read the title and the first sentence, I thought it was Osaka Naomi. But then I remembered, she still has US citizenship.

-1 ( +6 / -7 )

...along with Japanese citizenship.

-2 ( +5 / -7 )

Ban on dual nationality is rather common worldwide. Any country is not very open to it. You just want to enjoy privilege from both countries. So greedy BBA...

-9 ( +6 / -15 )

She renounce her American citizenship, problem solve ,you can get strip of American citizenship ,by commiting Crimes

You can can, but only under very specific situations that wouldn't apply to 99.99999% of naturalized citizens.

In 2017, the Supreme Court held in a unanimous decision in Maslenjak v. United States that only an illegal act that played a role in an individual’s acquisition of U.S. citizenship could lead to criminal denaturalization, narrowing the scope under which an individual may be denaturalized under 18 U.S.C. § 1425.

The government may not strip citizenship from people born in the United States. However, naturalized citizens may have their citizenship stripped by a federal court through a criminal prosecution or civil lawsuit brought by the Department of Justice. The general grounds for denaturalization are illegal procurement of naturalization or concealment of a material fact or willful misrepresentation .1 There are several questions on the naturalization application which address criminal activity and can later be used as the basis for alleging a person concealed a material fact.

Don't lie on the USgovt forms related to request for residency or citizenship.

Natural born US citizens cannot have their citizenship taken.

Periodic green card renewal (i.e. permanent US residency) can be withheld for certain crimes. Also, there are lessor crimes which can prevent a green card application from approval.

0 ( +1 / -1 )

While the probability of Ms Kondo winning this case is low based on current law, I think it's a good thing that such cases be brought to the court. As more and more such cases are brought eventually the J-gov will have to examine the issue and go beyond what is presently in the books are far as the law is concerned. Laws can be amended or changed.

On the other hand, there are many who may feel that it's better to let sleeping dogs lie. True, Ms Kondo could simply naturalize back to J-citizenship. And she would have to renounce her US citizenship to do so. However Japan does not have the right to "take away" her US citizenship or her US passport. Only the US does, and the US doesn't care that she may hold both US and JP passports.

I see a distinct contradiction in the J-govt's policy on not recognizing dual nationaliy, but proudly showing off Japanese scholars and scientists who gain international awards and recognition despite their having acquired foreign nationalities in order to pursue their research and careers.

8 ( +11 / -3 )

Korea now allows dual-citizenship. In fact, becoming Korean, and retaining your previous citizenship, is now pretty straightforward.

AND this was done around 15 years ago..

But then again, Korea is a country going places, while Japan is in terminal decline.

I couldn't agree more.

-9 ( +9 / -18 )

My children were born in Japan and acquired dual citizenship at birth. While technically, they were obliged under Japanese law to choose one or the other at the age of 20, they've both followed the "don't ask, don't tell" principle and thus, now in their late twenties, retain both. Technically speaking, though, their nationalities are not of their own choice as their parents made that choice for them at the time of their birth.

I'd like to see that loophole challenged in court someday (but not by my kids - I'd rather they continue to keep their heads low).

This. Don’t need the extra attention of a lawsuit.

Just remember your kids that the Japanese government, as much as they wanted to, do not have the power to revoke other nation’s passport.

6 ( +6 / -0 )

tokyo_mToday  09:18 am JST

Korea now allows dual-citizenship. In fact, becoming Korean, and retaining your previous citizenship, is now pretty straightforward. But then again, Korea is a country going places, while Japan is in terminal decline.

South Korea's ctizenship policy is irrelevant to this article. And when South Korea becomes a G7 country like Japan you can tell us that it's going places.

3 ( +17 / -14 )

...citizenship from a normal country.

Thanks for that, Finally Rich. You made my morning!

-7 ( +0 / -7 )

ikejinToday  08:31 am JST

So are you telling me that Naomi Osaka is in the US on a visa?

Yes, she is.

-5 ( +0 / -5 )

So are you telling me that Naomi Osaka is in the US on a visa?

Her name cannot be found on the US government's official list of people who have renounced US citizenship. And that information is made public. This is just a case of the Japanese government allowing the rich and famous to have their cake and eat it. Not rich? Not famous? Tough.

8 ( +11 / -3 )

Most people see having dual passport as some kind of backup plan to run away as soon one country encounter some trouble.

and thats totally their decision, they're citizens of two countries they can do as they please.

my kids born in Japan got dual nationality by my decision. when they turn 22, theyll decide if they choose to remain Japanese, as I guess they will. but on gods green earth the Japanese government will never take away their second nationality, which they do not know they even have. remember you can have a nationality without a passport, but you cant get a passport without a nationality. My kids only have a Japanese passport

6 ( +9 / -3 )

You can still apply and keep the passport of the other country, just don't ever use it entering Japan, just use your Japan passport at all times when in country. The other country that allows dual nationality/passport will recognise both. Basically there is no checking system in Japan so long as you don't ever show or use the other passport in Japan. But yes it's a silly rule and I wish her good luck as she represents a lot of people.

6 ( +6 / -0 )

Kondo claims that Article 11 of the nationality law, which stipulates that Japanese citizens automatically lose their nationality upon gaining a foreign nationality

Technically, it's not automatic, as they are required to report to Japan's ministry in charge.

According to Japan's nationality law, dual nationality holders shall decide their nationality by their age of 22 or younger. Those who are older than 22 when gaining a foreign nationality shall renounce Japanese nationality within two years.

A big problem is, many dual nationality holders remain undecided after the age 22 or dodge the rule, which is rather an open secret. Japan's nationality law seems to be losing its relevancy as well as credibility. The current arrangements will no longer fit the real, emerging situations as there are an increasing number of people left "in limbo" over nationality issues.

I don't have a particular position on dual nationality although I would like to listen to various views from both sides. My quick proposal is an extension of the probation time: the dual nationality holder decide the one by the age of 40-45, by the time s/he can grow mature enough to judge in which country s/he is more involved, or to which society s/he can be committed.

2 ( +4 / -2 )

This exact same thing happened to me. But upon reading the law, which is very clear, I knew I didn't stand a chance to maintain my Japanese citizenship.

I, of course, hope she can win since it'd be wonderful to have dual nationality again, but I don't really think this is stripping anyone of their "right to pursue happiness and equality" or "an important human right."

-3 ( +1 / -4 )

Aly RustomToday  08:52 am JST

a couple of years ago there was a scandal where a few LDP ministers were found to have acquired US citizenship.

Can you show me the source of this information please.

2 ( +4 / -2 )

I see a distinct contradiction in the J-govt's policy on not recognizing dual nationaliy, but proudly showing off Japanese scholars and scientists who gain international awards and recognition despite their having acquired foreign nationalities in order to pursue their research and careers.

Allowing dual citizenship can solve this dilemma although I think Japan's "catch-all and counting" approach is unworthy if not chauvinistic.

What if Chinese or Indian scientists belonging to Todai or Riken lab win a Nobel prize? How would the Japanese react? I'm just curious (and I am respectful of the US's brains-gaining soft power)

2 ( +3 / -1 )

Good luck to her though I think her chances of winning are pretty slim. Heaps of countries have this dual citizenship ban and I haven't the foggiest why. It's really a law that doesn't pass muster nowadays as people marry people from outside their home country; and it's deeply unfair for any kids they might have who have to choose one passport over the other when they come of age.

3 ( +5 / -2 )

My children were born in Japan and acquired dual citizenship at birth. While technically, they were obliged under Japanese law to choose one or the other at the age of 20, they've both followed the "don't ask, don't tell" principle and thus, now in their late twenties, retain both」

The above is correct. If you submit the birth of a child to the Japanese consulate or embassy within the required time, your child will be a Japanese citizen (if one or both of the parents have Japanese citizenships). Although the law changed around 1985, the Japanese consulate does not mention anything about making a choice at the age of 20 at the time of passport renewal. There are many dual citizens and do not experience problems. One can also retain their Japanese residency through relatives and renew passports in Japan even if you are living outside of Japan. The key is not to make an issue about it.

Korea's policy is not relevant to this discussion although a Korean client living outside of Korea told me that he had to choose after a certain period of time. In any case, this discussion is about Japan and not another country.
3 ( +4 / -1 )

So are you telling me that Naomi Osaka is in the US on a visa? And, runner/comedian "Neko Hiroshi" who took Cambodian citizenship to run for Cambodia in a previous Olympics is in Japan on a visa? Dual nationality is fine, let's see a change in the law.

Exactly! If you are famous or rich, you are above the law here and in most countries. A rich Chinese guy I know here has a Japanese and Chinese passport along with the rest of his Chinese family here. Nobody has ever come for him to decide on his passport.

3 ( +3 / -0 )

Kondo san

THANKS for fighting for what is imply....RIGHT!!!

Shame on the J-govt, they need to graduate from the Stone Age already!

-7 ( +5 / -12 )

She got her application rejected because she told the J-gov about becoming American, if she had kept quiet she would've been fine.

The Japanese passport application form has a question about having another nationality. If you always check "no" on that one and if you ALWAYS enter and exit the country on a Japanese passport they won't check on you. I know plenty of naturalised JP who still retain their original citizenship and a couple of JPs with other passports.

-2 ( +1 / -3 )

Can you show me the source of this information please.

Hi Harry. I actually read it here on JT. It was around 3 or 4 years ago.

-4 ( +2 / -6 )

Hope she can win and as many said in comments, it's an open secret that 10 thousand of Japanese have dual nationality (or much more!!) and even embassies admit they know about it during passport renewal haha!

Here are the only countries in the world not accepting dual citizenship : Andorra Estonia Malaysia Austria Georgia Montenegro Tanzania Azerbaijan India Thailand Bahrain Indonesia Nepal Ukraine China Japan Poland United Arab Emirates Djibouti Kazakhstan Saudi Arabia Venezuela.

Pretty surprised to see European countries such as Austria btw

4 ( +4 / -0 )

It would be better for Japan to recognise dual citizenship. It really isnt an issue anymore, most countries have extradition treaties with Japan if you commit a crime. The only time it really becomes an issue is if someone wants to be elected to the national diet because then they really shouldnt have any allegiance to another country. I hope the Japanese government recognises this in the near future, it would encourae many young Japanese dual nationals to return to Japan to work at least for a period of time thereby benefiting the Japanese economy. However, having lived in Japan for several years and been an avid spectator of Japanese politics for two decads I cannot see any politician bothering to bring this change to the diet.

1 ( +3 / -2 )

They should change the law. It’s a miserable situation for dual-nationals to be in. As someone previously pointed out, they’re just screwing with you.

4 ( +4 / -0 )

Pukey2Today  09:54 am JST

So are you telling me that Naomi Osaka is in the US on a visa?

Her name cannot be found on the US government's official list of people who have renounced US citizenship. And that information is made public.

She was a Jamaican citizen and not America, by her own words. She was already a permanent resident before forsaking her Jamaican citizenship.

-1 ( +1 / -2 )

Ban on dual nationality is rather common worldwide. Any country is not very open to it. You just want to enjoy privilege from both countries. So greedy BBA...

the reason for duel/multiple nationality is in two groups. One to have family relations in different countries. OK. The other is drug dealing, money laundering, tax evasion using offshore companies, arms dealing, human smuggling, and escaping serious crime illegally to go to a third country like Lebanon.

-9 ( +0 / -9 )

Dual nationality is a complete joke of a concept. It is yet another one of the strange fruits of 350 years of liberalism.

-15 ( +2 / -17 )

Has Naomi Osaka shown proof that she renounced her US citizenship?

0 ( +4 / -4 )

Japan is run like a small town private member's club with all kinds of meaningless rules and codes to keep insiders in, and outsiders out.

Combine that with crab in a bucket syndrome and a government trying to control taxes and curtail freedom, and you can see the twisted logic behind this byzantine and archaic practice

-6 ( +4 / -10 )

Why Japan is tough !

-1 ( +1 / -2 )

She decided to take an other nationality. She knew the rule.

Now, for kids born with the double nationality I think Japan must change the law and leave that kids with the double nationality. This is completely different from adults deciding to acquire a new one.

-4 ( +2 / -6 )

More of this please, I hope to see the end of the the Japanese double standard era.

2 ( +7 / -5 )

Dual nationality is really only a concern of the 1% and doesn't garner much sympathy for that reason. The overwhelming majority of the working class doesn't have the luxury.

-5 ( +3 / -8 )

Ah yes..well however there are some Japanese nationals ive met with both a Japanese and a USA passport.

There's a loophole in the system.

0 ( +2 / -2 )

awomdeToday  11:42 am JST

Has Naomi Osaka shown proof that she renounced her US citizenship?

No, because she was not a US citizen. Reporters only assumed she was. I don’t think it really matters.

She was coy about not saying explicitly that she was an American citizen, but giving up her other citizenship. There are videos of her saying that she was born in Japan, lived in a Jamaican household and culture and was not “technically” an American.

-1 ( +1 / -2 )

Back on topic please.

Most people see having dual passport as some kind of backup plan to run away as soon one country encounter some trouble.

and thats totally their decision, they're citizens of two countries they can do as they please.

Couldn’t agree more, holding people hostage doesn’t have a place in modern society.

-1 ( +4 / -5 )

Couldn’t agree more, holding people hostage doesn’t have a place in modern society.

I hope you condemned Ukraine forcing all males aged 18-65 to stay in the country after the Russian invasion, then.

-2 ( +4 / -6 )

Wow, lots of people chiming in on THIS one :)

-1 ( +0 / -1 )

My daughter holds two passports, and it's legal. She was born in Katsushika-Ku.

I immediately registered her birth at the American Embassy.

She still holds two passports, that was 24 years ago... don't ever let it expire.

2 ( +3 / -1 )

Dual citizens should carry both valid passports (U.S. and Japan) at all times when traveling to/from the U.S. The dual citizen must present the Japanese passport when going through Japanese immigration and the U.S. passport at U.S. immigration.

Forgive my ignorance...but doesn't this contradicts with the topic?

Actually, if you are born in USA, and parents are an American and a Japanese, to enter USA - must show US Passport, and vice-versa...to Japan - must show Japanese passport. It happened to my adult kids. How convenient for both consulates to generate a profit and play the card of hypocrisy on cases such as this one.

2 ( +3 / -1 )

Thank you for stating that; No You Didn't.

Exactly what my daughter does, going through immigration.

1 ( +1 / -0 )

WA4TKG

Wow, lots of people chiming in on THIS one :)

Logic would dictate that most readers of an English-language Japan news site would have some connection to both Japan and another nation, and thus a vested interest in this topic.

2 ( +4 / -2 )

Ridiculous.

Many East Asian & Southeast Asian countries (Singapore, S. Korea, China, Mongolia, Indonesia, Brunei, Malaysia and so on) prohibited dual citizenship. Some that do not (Vietnam), only allow it in limited cases.

-5 ( +0 / -5 )

Reminds me of the case of former Peruvian president Fujimori. The Peruvian constitution states that its president must be a Peruvian citizen, so by assuming the presidency, Fujimori was de facto stating his citizenship as Peruvian. Facing jail, he fled to Japan, which immediately recognized (not gave him) Japanese nationality, in fact recognizing his de jure dual citizenship.

But then, he was a man of stature. The rich and powerful have their own rules in every country in the world, not just in Japan.

4 ( +4 / -0 )

What's wrong with just having one? Less problems with taxation plus you aren't bound by two different countries laws. 

I think perhaps dual-nationality Americans are the only ones who face taxation problems because of their nationality. The rest of us pay taxes where we live.

Most people see having dual passport as some kind of backup plan to run away as soon one country encounter some trouble.

You've spoken with most people who have/want dual nationality, have you? You never asked me, nor my kids, nor my bestie nor her kids.

My desire for dual nationality is basically (for me) as an acknowledgement of my standing as a member of Japanese society; I've lived here yonks, I'm allowed to pay taxes, contribute to society and add fine, healthy kids to the population, but I'm not allowed to vote on matters that affect the lives of those kids; and I don't buy into having to act and be treated like a foreigner when I go to the UK, so renouncing UK nationality out of the question.

For my kids, dual nationality without the silly 'don't ask/don't tell/just lie on the application form' fiasco is a simple acknowledgement of their dual heritage.

a couple of years ago there was a scandal where a few LDP ministers were found to have acquired US citizenship.

Perhaps you are referring to one case, when it became known that Ren Ho, the acting leader of the Democratic Party, had retained her Taiwanese nationality after acquiring Japanese nationality at the age of 17. Apparently her Taiwanese father did all the paperwork in Chinese for her, and she thought that had included recounting her Taiwanese nationality. Not so much a scandal as a storm in a tea bowl.

https://mainichi.jp/english/articles/20160913/p2a/00m/0na/012000c

6 ( +6 / -0 )

I wonder if the change of the legal age in Japan to 18 will allow kids with dual citizenship from birth to file suits before they are supposed to choose. At the very minimum that would oblige the court to suspend the obligation until the ruling is given.

0 ( +1 / -1 )

Of course having two passportd is better than one, and 3 beven better and so on.

You get to optimize your taxes if need be, more capacity to travel and so on.

Up to flee a country if needed, although that this is rarely the fine usage of multiple citizenships.

It is called privileges, because then you get people of several ranks.

If you favor the rich and the privileged (aristocrats, the big business owners and such classes), yes just call for it.

But don't say then you are someone who respect others, when you are allowed something when others aren't.

The example of men required to fight in Ukrain is a good one.

To demonstrate all this, just think how ludicrous to mention you have different cultural roots. Because then I should have at least 4 passports !

In life, one needs to know on which side of the fence he sits.

Have the cake and eat for me, not others seems the current trend.

My kids have dual citizenships and passports. So are privileged in this world.

0 ( +3 / -3 )

a couple of years ago there was a scandal where a few LDP ministers were found to have acquired US citizenship.

Perhaps you are referring to one case, when it became known that Ren Ho, the acting leader of the Democratic Party, had retained her Taiwanese nationality after acquiring Japanese nationality at the age of 17. Apparently her Taiwanese father did all the paperwork in Chinese for her, and she thought that had included recounting her Taiwanese nationality.

No cleo- It was a couple of LDP ministers who had US citizenship. I didn't really follow up on the story, as i didn't think it was much of a big deal at the time..

Not so much a scandal as a storm in a tea bowl.

Yes I agree with you.

-2 ( +0 / -2 )

What's the problem with dual citizenship? It's kinda interesting how the Japanese government turns a blind eye when they want athletes from other countries to play on Japanese national teams!

4 ( +5 / -1 )

I can understand this principle to some extent, but at the very least, can we streamline/expedite the path to permanent residency?

0 ( +1 / -1 )

No cleo- It was a couple of LDP ministers who had US citizenship. I didn't really follow up on the story, as i didn't think it was much of a big deal at the time..

I'm not 100% certain but wasn't one of those a female LDP politician who was half white and yet was one of the most racist politicians out there (I have a theory that she was bullied at school for being a hafu - if you can't beat them, join them). Wasn't she also against foreign residents from receiving the government covid handout?

0 ( +2 / -2 )

I'm not 100% certain but wasn't one of those a female LDP politician who was half white and yet was one of the most racist politicians out there (I have a theory that she was bullied at school for being a hafu - if you can't beat them, join them). Wasn't she also against foreign residents from receiving the government covid handout?

I don't know Pukey2. I really can't remember. I have been googling it and can't seem to find anything- but I do remember reading about it on this site, but not anywhere else. I'm sorry

-4 ( +1 / -5 )

can we streamline/expedite the path to permanent residency?

One reason permanent residency in Japan is stricter and takes longer to get is because it never expires. In the US and other countries, you lose your permanent resident status if you move abroad for more than a year. I'd rather wait 10 years for something that never expires rather than 3-5 years for something akin to an extended visa.

2 ( +3 / -1 )

I don't think this will do anything but it's a law that really needs to go in both directions, whether Japan likes it or not they are too late to do anything about their birth rate. Their choice is to get foreigners to live and work in Japan or slowly lose their current power status. I think Japanese think they can just at any time choose to allow foreigners to come here and all of a sudden millions of well educated foreigners will flock to live and work here long term. I don't think that will be the case, especially long term. For that to happen laws that prevent foreigners from having equal legal status needs to go. In most countries we would be a citizen of that country after living there for a couple of years, but with these rules we see people living their whole lives here without becoming a citizen. I know it's only on paper and even if we were Japanese citizens it would not make us suddenly not be discriminated against but having it on paper changes a lot. Police can't take for granted that anyone not "japanese looking" is not japanese etc and it will slowly change the image of what is "Japanese looking is. I doubt anyone in power will think that far though and the only way for that law to change is if a majority of Japanese athletes are mixed nationality and they start to choose to compete for their other nationality because Japan is forcing them to choose. I'm sure they would do a China before that though and only let "high status" people be able to have dual citizenship.

3 ( +3 / -0 )

She's left japan at her own will,right?Then,she should not complain about that.Now,she's American,not Japanese.

-4 ( +2 / -6 )

Dual nationality was never really required in the good old days. The old 4 - 1 - 16 - 3 visa worked really well for everybody. Unfortunately, around 1987, the Ministry of Justice decided that foreign people were only coming to Japan, or even being in Japan for one reason - to make money. The removal of this visa status, in my opinion, actually isolated Japan and damaged great opportunities for Japan.

-4 ( +2 / -6 )

She has been a legal professional and been long knowing Japan's nationality law including Article 11.

She is a 確信犯 since she became a US citizen in 2004( or even before that), even advising at her own website to keep dual citizenships to anonymous Japanese questioners in the same conditions(meaning ignore Japan's law) . This is not the first time she had to renew her Japanese passport in 2017. She entered Japan with US passport and renew her Japanese passport after entering Japan.

I don't think that is a correct attitude for someone working in legal fields. Of course she MUST file a suit, as she herself got her passport stripped off as opposed to what she had been suggesting to ignore (to cheat) what is clearly stipulated in Article 11 of the law and can't make excuse herself, otherwise, for what she had been suggesting her clients about what is squarely against Japanese law.

I chose to put it as Japanese word 確信犯 as it is because this is not the criminal case. But she knew it, she has been doing it and she has been suggesting it and she failed. So She filed this suit.

Hope she can win.

0 ( +1 / -1 )

Ooops

I forgot to link this.

http://www.yurikondo.com/index.html

You can see what she has been suggesting to those in the same conditions both in English and Japanese.

2 ( +2 / -0 )

Japan is not the only country that does not allow dual nationality...

2( +17 / -15 )

15 people managed to down vote a fact!!!

4 ( +4 / -0 )

Pukey2Today  03:34 pm JST

No cleo- It was a couple of LDP ministers who had US citizenship. I didn't really follow up on the story, as i didn't think it was much of a big deal at the time..

I'm not 100% certain but wasn't one of those a female LDP politician who was half white and yet was one of the most racist politicians out there (I have a theory that she was bullied at school for being a hafu - if you can't beat them, join them). Wasn't she also against foreign residents from receiving the government covid handout?

You guys re talking about Kimi Onoda

https://ja.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E5%B0%8F%E9%87%8E%E7%94%B0%E7%B4%80%E7%BE%8E#:~:text=%E5%87%BA%E7%94%9F%E5%BD%93%E6%99%82%E3%80%81%E6%97%A5%E6%9C%AC%E3%81%AE%E5%9B%BD%E7%B1%8D,%E5%A4%9A%E9%87%8D%E5%9B%BD%E7%B1%8D%E3%81%A8%E3%81%AA%E3%81%A3%E3%81%9F%E3%80%82

3 ( +3 / -0 )

Dual citizenship may lead to split loyalty, which would matter in the case of a war between Japan and some other countries, for example China. No problem between Japan and Canada, of course. So it is a complex issue. Perhaps Japan can allow dual citizenship between itself and a democratic country, with the possibility of revocation of that duality if that other country turns non-democratic?

-2 ( +2 / -4 )

The ultimate punch in the face when you force someone to give up his or her IDENTITY.

-3 ( +1 / -4 )

My son has dual we live in the US. He's only 4, so there's quite a bit of time before he has to choose.

I'm told that it's possible to hang on to both, as the US gov't won't tattle to the Japanese gov't.

My wife won't take US citizenship because she's afraid that Japan will find out... but again, many have done this and the US hasn't tattled.

My concern would be that if a Japanese who has a second citizenship tries to renew their Japanese passport without a residence in Japan, Japan would ask that they provide a copy of a green card (which a US citizen obviously wouldn't have).

Does anyone know if there are enforcement mechanisms in place that the Japanese gov't uses to enforce the dual citizenship ban when a Japanese passport is renewed, such as showing proof of foreign permanent residency?

1 ( +1 / -0 )

Dual citizenship may lead to split loyalty

I never get this logic. So could you guarantee that all ex-Chinese citizens who naturalized to Japan are now loyal to Japan? Or the thousands of Japanese citizens who may have PR in other countries and live there for decades are expected to be loyal to Japan? What is an ordinary citizen even expected to do in the case of war between the country that they are residing in and Japan? How does citizenship affect someone's loyalty? Banning something bureaucratic like dual citizenship on the basis of hypotheticals like this should have stopped in the 20th century.

-6 ( +0 / -6 )

if a person willing to take another country citizenship, make sense to give up the other.

-3 ( +2 / -5 )

So because you have US citizenship are they going to indulge your whims????..

Japan if it is a country of LAWS and whoever wants to live here must adhere to these laws..

Japan accepts ONLY ONE NATIONALITY and I love that..

Who does not agree, there are other countries that do accept it..

GO JAPAN !!..

-6 ( +3 / -9 )

By the way...

Their country..

Their rules..

Get used to it..

-8 ( +2 / -10 )

By the way...

Their country..

Their rules..

This person is arguing their country in regards to their country's rules.

6 ( +8 / -2 )

kennyG

You guys re talking about Kimi Onoda

Thank you for that Kenny.  礼

Hope she can win.

Agree with you.

-1 ( +4 / -5 )

CaptDingleheimerJune 3  10:18 pm JST

My concern would be that if a Japanese who has a second citizenship tries to renew their Japanese passport without a residence in Japan, Japan would ask that they provide a copy of a green card (which a US citizen obviously wouldn't have).

Does anyone know if there are enforcement mechanisms in place that the Japanese gov't uses to enforce the dual citizenship ban when a Japanese passport is renewed, such as showing proof of foreign permanent residency?

Your concerns are correct.

If a Japanese Passport holder applies to renew their passport in Japan, they will need proof of residence in Japan. If no residence in Japan, then they will ask to see the US Permanent Residence Card.

If a Japanese Passport holder applies to renew their passport in the U.S. at any of the Japanese Consulates or Embassies, they will need to show their valid Visa status in the US, such as a Permanent Residence Card, or other Visa status. Failure results in a rejection of the renewal application.

In both cases, presenting a valid US Passport wil result in a rejection of renewal. And IF the Japanese Passport is still valid at that time, they will punch holes in it and make in invalid.

2 ( +3 / -1 )

My kids are dual citizens (Japan from mom, Canada from me) and this stupid rule will force them to choose to reject half of their own identity when they are 22. 

They likely as not will not be forced. They may well remain under the radar. In any case, if Canada is anything like the US (burst of laughter), even if your kids sign a Japanese document “surrendering” Canadian citizenship, it wouldn’t be considered valid by Canada. And, if Canada is anything like the US (second burst of laughter), the Canada passport is the property of the Canadian government and may only be surrendered to that authority. The Japanese government may not seize it.

I hope you realize that there are things that are illegal in Japan, but given loopholes, are still done. Prostitution and gambling for example. That’s fine by me. This dual-nationality matter falls into the same category.

0 ( +2 / -2 )

I hope you realize that there are things that are illegal in Japan, but given loopholes, are still done. Prostitution and gambling for example. That’s fine by me. This dual-nationality matter falls into the same category.

speaks volumes about a country when dual citizenship is treated like prostitution and gambling.

-5 ( +4 / -9 )

One country, one citizenship

If dual becomes legal, then after many years, people will demand "Multiple Citizenships" for their "rights"

Billions of people will settle in their preferable countries and who will look after their own land?

-5 ( +2 / -7 )

AnonymousToday  10:47 am JST

I hope you realize that there are things that are illegal in Japan, but given loopholes, are still done. Prostitution and gambling for example. That’s fine by me. This dual-nationality matter falls into the same category.

No they are not in the same category. Prostitution, is specically defined and criminalized. Most forms of Gambling are also criminalized under the Criminal Code chapter 23. However there are some exceptions to both. These are illegal (違法)

In contrast, the posession of a second passport of another country is not illegal, but unlawful, as in unauthorized (不法).

0 ( +3 / -3 )

Aly RustomToday  07:39 am JST

kennyG

You guys re talking about Kimi Onoda

Thank you for that Kenny. 礼

Hope she can win.

Agree with you.

So, down from a few to a couple to one. BTW, she is my local representative in the House Of Councilors.

0 ( +1 / -1 )

The land of my birth tolerates dual citizenship. I’d opt for Japanese citizenship alone, but I own property in said land and don’t trust the government to respect my rights if I am no longer a citizen there. When renewing one’s Japanese passport, one fills out a form that asks whether one has another nationality. I answered truthfully the last time and was then told in a kind and pro forma tone that I should do something about it. I replied humbly but vaguely…I have grandchildren who are Japanese citizens, even though one of them has never been in Japan. It does seem arbitrary, but it’s more humane than strict consistency. The lesson is: Don’t make a spectacle of yourself.

1 ( +1 / -0 )

So, down from a few to a couple to one. BTW, she is my local representative in the House Of Councilors.

not sure what you are trying to say.

-4 ( +0 / -4 )

So, down from a few to a couple to one.

does it matter whether its 1 or 20? the LDP has denounced dual Citizenship only to have a representative go against that policy. What difference does it make whether it was 1 or more?

BTW, she is my local representative in the House Of Councilors.

So what?

-3 ( +1 / -4 )

BTW, she is my local representative in the House Of Councilors.

then why did you ask for links?

-1 ( +1 / -2 )

M3M3M3 wrote: "One reason permanent residency in Japan is stricter and takes longer to get is because it never expires. In the US and other countries, you lose your permanent resident status if you move abroad for more than a year."

Unfortunately, unless the law changed in the last 8 years or so, that's not true. I used to think that "permanent" meant "permanent", myself. But to my shock & dismay, I lost my "permanent" residence status after staying and working in the US for more than a year. I was told, after it was too late, the reason was that I was required to come to Japan at least once per year, to maintain my permanent residence. Now I've retired, and am back home in Japan, but can only get a spouse visa, at present. To re-establish permanent residence, I'll need to get a spouse visa for the maximum period (not entirely clear whether that's 3 or 5 years, but my current visa is only valid for 1 year) first, then I can apply for permanent residence. Interestingly, I don't have to wait until the end of that period though. As soon as the visa is granted, I can apply for permanent residence.

As for the dual citizenship issue, I think kids that have dual citizenship at birth should be able to keep both citizenships permanently (except in cases of treason, etc.), because it was not their choice. Probably those who acquire foreign citizenship later should be allowed to legally keep both as well, but I can see some limited justification for not allowing it.

1 ( +1 / -0 )

What this kind lady does not know is that it does not matter either way.

After all, Japan can even announce it will abide by a protocol banning unilateral kidnapping of biracial children by the Japanese parent and yet local courts and local police will deny cases or enforcement that the central government has supposedly banned.

0 ( +1 / -1 )

The fact that the Japanese constitution was written by the USA government should allow for dual citizenship between the USA and Japan.

3 ( +3 / -0 )

Perhaps Japan can allow dual citizenship between itself and a democratic country

Wouldn't that be unfair to the democratic country?

0 ( +1 / -1 )

Like many of you here, I am befuddled by the refusal of the Japanese government to grant dual citizenship. However, someone recently pointed out that one reason why Japan does not want dual citizenship is because of the possibility of a country like South Korea or China allowing its citizens to become Japanese citizens. I thought that was unlikely, but I'd like to hear what some of you may think about this possible factor.

0 ( +0 / -0 )

It's quite easy to be a dual national if you were born citizens of both countries. I know many who kept their Japanese citizenship and never renounced their western one. My son retains both.

1 ( +1 / -0 )

I see a lot of people here ignorant of US naturalization law. The US does NOT make you give up your original citizenship. You must swear on oath of allegiance, but can can maintain all the rights and privileges your other citizenship avails you.

2 ( +2 / -0 )

David Miller-You are correct. I had been returning to Japan to renew mine, but lost it when COVID shut me out. I am coming back to Japan next week for the first time since 2019 and I traveling on a tourist visa, with a spouse exception. Interestingly, my son, who is a dual national, but whose passport expired during COVID, was refused a tourist VISA for his US passport and we were forced to renew his Japanese passport before traveling. And like much in Japan, they made it as difficult as possible. You cannot renew a Japanese passport by mail and have to travel in person to the embassy/consulate to pick it up. So plane tickets for the family, a hotel room, show up for the appointment that took less than 5 minutes just because they refuse to use couriers like every other G20 nation.

0 ( +0 / -0 )

I see a lot of people here ignorant of US naturalization law. The US does NOT make you give up your original citizenship. You must swear on oath of allegiance, but can can maintain all the rights and privileges your other citizenship avails you.

I think you made a mistake, I can't find anyone in here saying otherwise, even though you said a lot of people here are ignorant on the matter.

1 ( +1 / -0 )

She choose to be an American Citizen it was her choice and now renewing her passport to her original nationality. This was also a big slap for the American Government.

0 ( +0 / -0 )

Just curious; for those of you with dual nationality kids. Do your children have the same surname in their Japanese and non-Japanese passport or, for example, the Japanese mother‘s surname in their Japanese passport and the ‚gaijin‘ name in the other passport? When renewing the Japanese passport before age 21, do you cross the ‚dual nationality‘ box or just cross the ‚no‘ one?

0 ( +0 / -0 )

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