Arriving in Japan can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially when it comes to navigating the initial procedures. To help you settle smoothly, we’ve outlined the crucial steps you need to take, from registering your residency to setting up essential services. Follow this guide to ensure a hassle-free start in Japan.
- Before You Start – Important Note on Employment Status
- Register Your Residency: Your First Priority
- My Number Registration
- Health Insurance – Which System Applies to You?
- Pension System – Mandatory Even If You Are Not Working
- Open a Bank Account: Manage Your Finances
- Mobile Phone and Internet Setup
- Quick Summary – Which Procedures Apply to You?
Before You Start – Important Note on Employment Status
Before going through the steps below, it is important to understand one key point:
Post-arrival procedures in Japan differ depending on whether you are employed or not.
Many newcomers already have a job offer before arriving in Japan, while others enter Japan under statuses such as Dependent or Designated Activities without employment.
This guide explains:
- Which steps apply to everyone
- Which steps depend on your employment status
Skipping or misunderstanding the correct procedures can lead to problems later, especially with health insurance, pension, and future visa renewals.
Register Your Residency: Your First Priority
Within 14 days of moving into your residence, you must register your address at your local city or ward office.
You will need:
- Your Residence Card
- Your passport
- Your address information
Your Residence Card will be updated with your address, and you will be officially registered as a resident of Japan.
This step is mandatory for all mid- to long-term residents, regardless of visa type or employment status.
My Number Registration
After completing your resident registration, you will be issued a My Number (individual number).
You may later apply for a My Number Card, which is not mandatory but highly recommended, as it is increasingly used for:
- Administrative procedures
- Health insurance
- Tax-related processes
Steps to Receive and Apply for Your My Number Card
- Receive Your Individual Number Notification:
- You’ll receive a notification at your registered address within 2-3 weeks. This will be delivered by simplified registered mail.
- If you miss the delivery, follow the instructions on the “Notice of Simplified Registered Mail Delivery” to arrange redelivery or pick it up from the post office.
- Apply for Your My Number Card:
- The notification includes your Individual Number, which you’ll use to apply for the My Number Card.
- Apply online here or visit your local municipal office for assistance.
- Collect Your My Number Card:
- You’ll receive a notification postcard within a month after applying. This postcard is not the My Number Card.
- Bring this postcard and your ID to the municipal office to collect your card. Make sure to confirm the collection details as appointments may be required.
Important: The My Number Card is crucial for various services and administrative processes, so ensure you complete these steps promptly.
Health Insurance – Which System Applies to You?
Japan has two main health insurance systems.
Which one applies depends on your employment status.
If You Are Employed by a Japanese Company
If you are employed under a standard employment contract, you will normally be enrolled in Employees’ Health Insurance (commonly referred to as “Shakai Hoken / 社会保険” in Japan) as part of Japan’s social insurance system.
In this case:
- Your employer handles the enrollment
- Insurance premiums are shared between you and the company
- You should not remain enrolled in National Health Insurance
A common mistake is staying enrolled in National Health Insurance after starting work.
If this happens, you should notify your city office once your company insurance begins.
If You Are Not Employed
If you are not employed, you must enroll in National Health Insurance (Kokumin Kenko Hoken / 国民健康保険) at your city or ward office.
This commonly applies to:
- Dependent spouse or family member not covered under a family member’s insurance
- Designated Activities visa holders without employment
- Freelancers or self-employed individuals
Premiums are calculated based on your previous income. Even if your income is low or zero, registration is still required.
Dependents Covered Under a Family Member’s Insurance
If you are a dependent spouse or family member of someone enrolled in Employees’ Health Insurance, you may be covered under their insurance as a dependent.
In this case:
- You do not enroll in National Health Insurance yourself.
- Health insurance coverage is provided through the insured family member.
- Dependent status is subject to conditions such as residence in Japan and income level.
Because dependent eligibility and procedures vary by insurer, it is recommended to confirm details with the employer or insurance provider.
Switching Insurance Systems
If your situation changes – for example, if you find a job after arrival – you must switch from National Health Insurance to Employees’ Health Insurance.
This is not automatic. You are responsible for completing the withdrawal procedure at city hall.
Pension System – Mandatory Even If You Are Not Working
Japan’s pension system is legally mandatory for residents aged 20 to 59.
Employees – Employees’ Pension (Kosei Nenkin)
If you are enrolled in social insurance through your employer, you will automatically join the Employees’ Pension system.
Your employer handles registration, and contributions are deducted from your salary.
Non-Employed Residents – National Pension (Kokumin Nenkin)
If you are not employed, you must register for the National Pension yourself.
This applies to:
- Dependents
- Unemployed residents
- Freelancers
If payment is difficult, exemption or deferral systems may be available. However, ignoring pension notices can create problems later.
Some dependent spouses may be covered under the pension system through their employed partner and may not need to pay National Pension contributions individually.
Why Pension Records Matter for Immigration
Immigration authorities increasingly review pension and insurance payment history during:
- Visa renewals
- Status changes
- Permanent Residence applications
Unpaid or unregistered periods can negatively affect your application.
Open a Bank Account: Manage Your Finances
Most daily life and employment-related payments in Japan require a Japanese bank account, including salary payments, rent, utilities, and mobile phone contracts.
In many cases, you will need to open a bank account after completing your resident registration.
Depending on the bank, requirements may include:
- Your Residence Card
- Proof of address
- A minimum length of stay in Japan
- In some cases, an employment contract or proof of income
Please note that bank policies vary, and some banks may be more accessible to new arrivals than others. It is not uncommon for newly arrived residents to be asked to wait until they have lived in Japan for a short period before opening an account.
If you are starting work soon, you may want to confirm with your employer whether they have a preferred bank for salary payments or can accept a short delay while you complete the account opening process.
Mobile Phone and Internet Setup
A mobile phone connection is essential for daily life in Japan, including communication, navigation, and administrative procedures.
Mobile Phone
Standard mobile phone contracts often require:
- A valid Residence Card
- A registered address
- In many cases, a Japanese bank account or credit card
For newly arrived residents, it is common to start with short-term solutions such as prepaid SIM or eSIM services, which usually have fewer requirements and can be used immediately after arrival.
Once you have settled in, completed your resident registration, and secured a stable payment method, you may find it easier to switch to a long-term mobile contract.
Home Internet Connections
If you plan to stay in Japan for an extended period, setting up a home internet connection may also be important, especially for remote work or online communication.
Please note that home internet services often require:
- A fixed residential address
- Approval from the property owner or management company
- Installation work, which may take several weeks depending on availability
Because of these factors, many newcomers rely on mobile data or temporary internet solutions at first, and arrange a home internet connection after settling into their accommodation.id SIM or eSIM services may be easier immediately after arrival.
Quick Summary – Which Procedures Apply to You?
| Your Situation | Health Insurance | Pension | Who Handles It |
|---|---|---|---|
| Employed by a Japanese company | Employees’ Health Insurance | Employees’ Pension | Employer |
| Dependent (coverage may vary) | National Health Insurance or Family Coverage under Employees’ Health Insurance | National Pension or Dependent Coverage | You / Family Member |
| Unemployed (not covered as a dependent) | National Health Insurance | National Pension | You |
| Freelancer / Self-employed | National Health Insurance | National Pension | You |
Need Assistance?
If the process seems overwhelming, our team at Tanabe Immigration Office is here to help. We offer personalized consultations and support to ensure a smooth transition. Don’t hesitate to reach out for guidance!
Contact Us Now for Professional Support!!
