Changing names in Japan?

[512kb]

This might be a wierd topic, but i'm wondering how easy it is to change your name legally in Japan. I know in the US, you have to fill out papers, pay a filing fee and put an ad in the paper for 4 weeks. How different is it in Japan?

 

[Jack]

This might be a wierd topic, but i'm wondering how easy it is to change your name legally in Japan. I know in the US, you have to fill out papers, pay a filing fee and put an ad in the paper for 4 weeks. How different is it in Japan?

heres my first query, why would you go to Japan just to change your name?

and second, are you changing to a Japanese name?

 

[Mike Cash]

Why would you assume he's asking about himself rather then in just a general info sort of way?

 

[Kinsao]

He might not be going to Japan just to change his name! Maybe many other reasons for going to Japan... will be going soon... so, no time to change his name in the US...

Hey, I hope you're changing it to something good!

 

[Maciamo]

It is extreme;y difficult to change one's name in Japan. It takes years in court, a lot of money, and a good reason. What's more it is very impractical as you have to get all your documents (diploma, passport, bank cards, registrations, member cards, work or accommodation contracts, etc.) renewed, by explaining them you changed name, and as it is very unusual in Japan, it may take some time and trouble. The same is true for most continental European countries. In the UK however, it is even easier than in the States thanks to the 'deed poll'.

 

[512kb]

Maciamo, thanks for the help. I'm not going to Japan just to change my name -_-. I am changing my name and I just thought "hey, how would it work in Japan?" I agree, it's a wierd question but it's something that I was interested in.

 

[Jack]

It is extreme;y difficult to change one's name in Japan. It takes years in court, a lot of money, and a good reason. What's more it is very impractical as you have to get all your documents (diploma, passport, bank cards, registrations, member cards, work or accommodation contracts, etc.) renewed, by explaining them you changed name, and as it is very unusual in Japan, it may take some time and trouble. The same is true for most continental European countries. In the UK however, it is even easier than in the States thanks to the 'deed poll'.

I thought it would be this difficult to change your name in another country, i'd suggest just doing on your home turf, much simpler.