Yokohama recognizes partnerships for LGBT couples english.kyodonews.net

KYODO NEWS - 2 hours ago - 12:56 | Lifestyle, All, JapanThe city of Yokohama near Tokyo began issuing certificates recognizing the partnerships of sexual minority and common-law couples on Monday.
Yokohama is the third city in Japan to implement a system of recognition for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender, as well as common-law couples, according to the city.
To receive the official certificate, applicant couples must both be at least 20 years old and residents of the city.
Yokohama joins the cities of Chiba and Kanagawa Prefecture's Yokosuka in recognizing common-law marriages.
Yokohama is planning on allowing those registered in the newly accepted relationships to apply for public housing as a couple.