Japan to recognize Taiwan as place of origin in family registration system

Starting May 26, individuals from Taiwan will be allowed to list “Taiwan,” rather than “China,” as their place of origin in Japan’s family registration system.

The change comes under a revised Justice Ministry ordinance. The revision updates the nationality field in the family register to a country or region of origin field, allowing for greater flexibility in self-identification.

China, which regards Taiwan as an integral part of its territory, has protested the revision. By contrast, residents of Taiwanese descent in Japan and their support groups have welcomed the change.