Resident Registration in Japan: Guide for Foreign Residents

If you live in Japan for more than 3 months, you must complete resident registration. After registering, you can get a “Certificate of Residence” (Juminhyo).

This article explains what resident registration is, where to complete the process, required documents, and important points when you move.

Read until the end to learn everything you need to know to live in Japan with peace of mind.

 

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What You Will Learn in This Article

・Understand what resident registration is (Do foreigners need it?)
・Learn where to complete the procedure
・Know the information required for registration
・Find out what documents to bring
・Learn the steps for address changes and moving
・Check answers to common questions (FAQ)
・Discover how to make job hunting easier

 

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■What is Resident Registration? Do Foreigners Need It?

Resident registration means registering your name, address, and other information at your local municipal office. Foreign residents who plan to stay in Japan for more than 3 months must complete this process. When you move to a new address, you must complete the procedure within 14 days.

Once registered, you can obtain a Certificate of Residence (Juminhyo). This certificate is required for important procedures such as opening a bank account, enrolling in school, and applying for jobs.

■Where Do You Complete Resident Registration?

You can complete resident registration at the municipal office of the city, ward, or town where you live. Go to the office that manages your current address. Examples include “City Hall,” “Ward Office,” or “Town Office.”

Office hours are usually Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:15 PM. Most offices are closed on Saturdays, Sundays, and national holidays. If you move, submit a “Notification of Moving Out (Tenshutsu Todoke)” at your old address and a “Notification of Moving In (Tennyu Todoke)” at your new address.

■What Information is Required?

When you complete resident registration, the municipal office will record the following information:

・Full name
・Date of birth
・Gender
・Address
・Residence status (for non-Japanese nationals)
・Relationship to the head of household (the representative of the household)
・My Number (Individual Number)

This information is used for essential procedures related to living and working in Japan.

■What Documents Do You Need to Bring?

To complete resident registration, bring the following documents to your municipal office:
・Passport
・Residence Card

These documents are necessary for identity verification. If additional documents are required, the municipal office will inform you.

■How to Change Your Address When Moving?

If you move, you must update your address at the municipal office within 14 days. Failing to do so may result in a fine.

[Steps for Address Change When Moving]

① Before moving, submit a Notification of Moving Out (Tenshutsu Todoke) at your current municipal office.
② Receive a Moving-Out Certificate.
③ Submit a Notification of Moving In (Tennyu Todoke) at the municipal office of your new address.

If you forget to obtain your Moving-Out Certificate, you can request it from your previous municipal office by mail. Contact the office for details.

■Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

■YOLO JAPAN: Supporting Your Life in Japan

When you move, don’t forget to update your address on YOLO JAPAN. If your address is far from the job location, your chances of getting an interview may decrease.

If you haven’t joined YOLO JAPAN yet, register for free today! We offer many job opportunities for foreign residents living in Japan.

Update Your Address Find Jobs Register for Free