Even before the Effective Date, the Minister of Justice may, when necessary for preparing the issuance of residence cards pursuant to the provisions of paragraph (6) of the preceding Article in relation to applications under paragraph (1) of that Article, have officials of the Ministry investigate the facts.

An immigration inspector or immigration control officer may, when necessary for the investigation set forth in the preceding paragraph, request the persons concerned to appear, question them, or request them to present documents.

The Minister of Justice, an immigration inspector or an immigration control officer may make inquiries to public offices or to public or private organizations and request reports on necessary matters with regard to the investigation set forth in paragraph (1).