⚠️ Note: This is a general guide for foreigners starting life in Japan.
More detailed articles for each section (Resident Registration, My Number, Health Insurance, etc.) will be added soon. Stay tuned!
Introduction
Moving to Japan is an exciting journey—but it can also feel overwhelming.
This guide gives you a general overview of the essential first steps.
Each section will briefly explain what you need to do, with links to detailed articles where you can learn more.
Resident Registration (住民登録)
When you arrive in Japan with a mid- or long-term visa, you must register your address at the city hall (市役所 / 区役所) within 14 days.
- Documents required:
- Residence Card (在留カード)
- Passport
- Lease contract (if available)
After registration, you will receive a 住民票 (Certificate of Residence), which is necessary for almost every other procedure in Japan.
👉 Read more: How to Register Your Residence in Japan↗
My Number (マイナンバー)
Soon after registering your residence, you will receive a My Number Notification by mail.
This is Japan’s social security and tax number, required for:
- Employment contracts
- Tax procedures
- Some banking services
Keep your My Number safe—it’s as important as your ID.
👉 Read more: My Number in Japan: A Complete Guide↗
Health Insurance & Pension (国民健康保険 & 年金)
Japan has a public health insurance and pension system that all residents are required to join.
- National Health Insurance (国民健康保険):
Sign up at the city hall when you register your residence. It covers 70% of your medical costs. - Pension (年金):
Foreign residents are also required to join the Japanese pension system.
Even if you don’t plan to stay long, you may be eligible for a lump-sum withdrawal payment when leaving Japan.
👉 Read more: Health Insurance & Pension in Japan: A Complete Guide↗↗
Taxes (税金)
Foreign residents in Japan are also subject to the country’s tax system.
- Income Tax (所得税): Deducted monthly from your salary.
- Resident Tax (住民税): Paid to your city/ward office, based on the previous year’s income.
- Tax Return (確定申告): Required for freelancers, business owners, or those with multiple jobs.
Knowing your tax obligations early will help you avoid unexpected bills later.
👉 Read more: Taxes in Japan for Foreign Residents↗
Opening a Bank Account (銀行口座)
A Japanese bank account is essential for salary payments, rent, and utilities.
- Popular banks: Mitsubishi UFJ, Sumitomo Mitsui, Japan Post Bank (ゆうちょ銀行)
- Documents required: Residence Card, passport, phone number, personal seal (印鑑) sometimes requested
- Some banks may require proof of employment or a student card, depending on your visa status.
👉 Read more: How to Open a Bank Account in Japan↗
Mobile Phone & Internet (携帯電話 & インターネット)
To sign a phone contract or internet service, you usually need:
- Residence Card
- Bank account or credit card
- Japanese address
Tip: For newcomers, prepaid SIM cards or services like Rakuten Mobile and SoftBank’s beginner plans can be easier to start with.
👉 Read more: Mobile and Internet Options in Japan↗
Additional Tips for a Smooth Start
Keep copies of all documents (passport, residence card, residence certificate)
Visit your city hall early—waiting times can be long, especially in April (new school/fiscal year)
Consider international support desks—many major cities (Tokyo, Nagoya, Osaka) have help counters in English and other languages
Conclusion
Your first steps in Japan—resident registration, My Number, health insurance, taxes, banking, and mobile setup—are the foundation for a stable life.
Once you complete them, you’ll feel much more secure and ready to enjoy your experience in Japan.
