The internal affairs ministry is considering two types of registration under the planned "furusato jūmin" (hometown resident) registration system for the so-called connected population, or people who are continuously involved in areas where they do not live.

The ministry assumes "basic" and "premium" registrations, depending on the degree of involvement. It expects this differentiation to encourage more people to become deeply involved in local communities.

The furusato jumin system is included in the government's basic vision for regional revitalization, adopted in June. Those who wish to register under the system will be able to do so via a smartphone app.

Basic registration is eyed for people who contribute to regional revitalization by repeatedly visiting, purchasing local products and making "furusato nōzei" hometown donations.

Premium registration would target people who engage in volunteer activities or side jobs in rural areas or have homes in both rural and urban areas. These people are expected to help maintain local communities.

To those who have registered either way, local governments will issue certificates and provide information on upcoming events.

The ministry plans to set an upper limit on the number of municipalities with which a person can register.

Premium registration certificates will be granted after local governments inspect documents showing applicants' activities.

Local governments can provide registered people with benefits, such as subsidies to cover transportation expenses and discounts on facility fees.

Those with the basic type of registration will be encouraged to switch to the premium type.

The ministry is considering using the My Number personal identification card to verify the identities of applicants in the registration process to prevent impersonation.

Details of the furusato jumin system will be finalized by the end of this year or later.