AllSetGo
HomeJust Arrived in JapanGetting Your My Number

Getting Your My Number

When you register your address in Japan for the first time, a 12-digit My Number (Individual Number) is assigned to you. The number is recorded in your resident register on the day of registration, and an 'Individual Number Notification' letter will be mailed to your address within approximately 2–3 weeks by non-forwardable registered mail.

💡

Showing common documents only

Complete the situation questionnaire to see a personalized document list for your visa type and employment status

See the documents you need (3 questions · 1 min)
🗂️

Steps

1

Submit your move-in notification — your My Number is assigned on the spot (to confirm the number immediately, request a resident certificate with My Number included)

2

About 2 to 3 weeks after you are entered in the residence register, a My Number notification arrives at your registered address by registered mail. The same envelope contains the card application form and a prepaid reply envelope

3

Note down your number when the letter arrives — you'll need it for employment, banking, insurance, and other procedures

4

If you need a physical My Number Card (IC card with photo), apply for it separately

⚠️

Important notes

The notification is sent as non-forwarding mail, so if you have set up mail forwarding it will not follow you and goes back to the municipal office instead. If you are out, a delivery slip is left - arrange redelivery or collect it at the post office within the holding period

The My Number Card (IC card) is separate from the notification letter — you need to apply for the card at a city office or online

You will be asked for your My Number when starting a job, opening a bank account, enrolling in health insurance, and more

The notification cannot be used as proof of your My Number or as identification, and it is never reissued if lost. To confirm your number you would need to get a My Number card, or a copy of your residence record showing the number

Official info verified: 2026-09-10 / Source: kojinbango-card.go.jp
See the documents you need (3 questions · 1 min)