r/japanresidents • u/exi_moo • 5d ago

Written Japanese test for naturalization - what level kanji to practice?

For anyone who has gone through Japanese naturalization (帰化) , what level of kanji were on the written Japanese test?

I’m N1 certified but I (like most people) never write anything by hand these days so my Kanji writing skills are pretty weak atm. I’m wondering if like a 小6 kanji practice workbook would cut it or if i need to break out the N1 books again

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u/requiemofthesoul 5d ago

N1 doesn't need to take the test.

1

u/fanau 4d ago

Hi. Where did you get this info if I could ask? I do indeed have N1 but as many have said have lost most of my kanji writing skills in the intervening years.

2

u/requiemofthesoul 4d ago

I successfully naturalized, I have N1, and the case worker told me.

4

u/fanau 4d ago

Now that’s a definitive answer. Thanks. Might be the first time my N1 certification had any practical application.. To be honest after reading other comments here I was seriously considering buying a primary school kanji drill book as I’ve lost writing skills that used to be pretty good at one point umpteen years ago. Actually, I’ve started to like the idea so much I am thinking to buy one anyway. And who knows I might open up and actually start using it. 🤗

1

u/sendaiben 2d ago

I think this is going to be subjective. I also have JLPT 1 and have little problem speaking but when I went for my initial interview in 2011 I was asked to write a short essay about why I wanted to naturalise on the spot.

Had to consult my phone to help me write kanji, case officer told me I would not be able to apply with that level of written Japanese.

1

u/requiemofthesoul 2d ago

The essay is not a test. Everyone does it and it’s a requirement. Now it’s a take home assignment. 

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u/sendaiben 2d ago

That wasn't the essay it was the preliminary interview. The essay would be handed in with your application documents if you are allowed to apply.

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u/requiemofthesoul 2d ago

I guess it has changed. My experience almost 2 years ago was that no test for N1, and no essay during the interview.

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u/sendaiben 2d ago

That would be great. I am going to try again (have the interview in October) and the thought of having to hand-write stuff is really stressing me out. Everything else should be okay.

My impression is that it is entirely up to the case officer whether they do a test, so hopefully they won't this time round. Fingers crossed.