The main building of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government was lit up on Tuesday night in the colors of the rainbow. Those colors symbolize sexual diversity.

The lighting up of the building came after the Metropolitan Government began accepting applications for a new certificate earlier in the day. The certificate is aimed at making life easier for members of sexual minority groups.

Under the new program, the Metropolitan Government will issue certificates to couples, who are members of sexual minority groups. People with certificates will be able to apply for public housing and access some administrative services.

People aged 18 or older are eligible for the program. At least one partner must live in Tokyo or commute to the capital for work or school.

The entire process, up to the issuance of the certificate, can be carried out online to protect the privacy of the applicants. The program will start operating in November.

A Tokyo government official says efforts will be made to raise awareness about the system, so that same-sex couples can face fewer problems. Such couples are often reportedly refused housing and prevented from visiting partners at medical institutions.