Welcome Tokyo
Procedures Required When Living in Japan
Here are three procedures foreign nationals need to complete when you first arrive in Japan and start your new life. Foreign nationals who plan to stay in Japan for three months or longer must complete procedures 1 and 2.
- Receive your “Residence Card (zairyu card).”
- Complete resident registration at a city office.
- Apply for a My Number Card.
1. Receive your “Residence Card (在留カード).”
The residence card is an ID card issued to foreign nationals who plan to live in Japan for three months or longer. You receive it upon entering Japan. If you are 16 or older and have a resident card, you must carry it at all times. If you do not have it, you may be subject to a fine.
You can get it at major airports in Japan. You can also receive it by registering as a resident at your local city office.
You need your residence card when opening a bank account, renting an apartment, or signing up for a mobile phone plan in Japan.
2. Complete resident registration(住民登録) at a city office.
Foreigners who plan to live in Japan for three months or longer must register as residents at their local town office.
Once you have decided where to live in Japan, you must submit a “notification of moving in” to the local municipal office within 14 days to complete your “resident registration.”
If you do not register as a resident, you may be subject to a fine.
Once you complete the “resident registration” process and your “certificate of residence” is processed, you will be able to access various municipal services. You will also be able to obtain a “certified copy of the resident register.”
A “certified copy of the resident register” is required when you start a new job or apply for a driver's license.
3. Apply for a My Number Card (マイナンバーカード).
The “My Number Card” is an IC card that displays your personal identification number (My Number).
A My Number is a number assigned to individuals in Japan who are registered as residents.
You may apply at your local municipal office to receive a My Number Card.
Having a My Number Card allows you to complete various procedures online.
If you wish to use your My Number Card as a health insurance card or driver’s license, you must register it for that purpose.
