Just Arrived in Japan: Complete Guide
A complete overview of administrative procedures required for just arrived in Japan. Check deadlines, required documents, and office locations in advance.
The procedures you need — and their deadlines — vary greatly depending on your nationality, visa type, family situation, and employment status. Browse the frequently asked questions below to get a clearer picture of what applies to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How soon after arriving in Japan do I need to register my address?
Once you have a residence, you must submit a move-in notification (tennyu-todoke) within 14 days at your local city or ward office. Bring your Residence Card to register your address.
Q. When can I enroll in National Health Insurance?
You can join National Health Insurance at the same time as filing your move-in notification. The filing is due within 14 days of becoming eligible, and it is the head of household who files it. Anyone insured under an employer's health insurance, or a dependant of theirs, is outside National Health Insurance. File late and you may have to pay the full cost of any treatment received in the meantime.
Q. What do I need to open a bank account after arriving in Japan?
Most banks want your residence card plus a passport or other identity document. Japan Post Bank will not open an account where the residence permission expires within three months of the application, and asks you to come back with a renewed card. For those on Student or Technical Intern Training status it also asks for a student or employee ID alongside the residence card, and may contact the school or employer to confirm enrolment.
Find Out Which Procedures Apply to You
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