Introduction
Moving to Japan is exciting—but your daily life won’t really start until you complete a few key procedures.
This guide gives you a clear overview of the essential first steps, with links to detailed guides so you can take each step confidently.
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 Resident Record (住民票 / Juminhyo), which is necessary for almost every other procedure in Japan.
👉 Read more: How to Register Your Address in Japan: A Complete Guide↗
My Number (マイナンバー)
After registering your residence, you will receive a My Number Notification Card by mail. This 12-digit number is used for:
- Employment contracts
- Tax procedures
- Health insurance and pension
- Some banking services
Keep your My Number safe—it’s as important as your ID.
👉 Read more: My Number in Japan: Full Overview↗
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 / Kokumin Kenko Hoken):
Join at the city office when you register your address. It covers about 70% of medical costs. - National Pension (国民年金 / Kokumin Nenkin):
Mandatory for residents aged 20–59. Even if you don’t plan to stay long, you may be eligible for a lump-sum withdrawal payment when leaving Japan.
👉 Read more: How to Enroll in Health Insurance & Pension in Japan: A Complete Guide↗
Taxes (税金)
Foreign residents are subject to Japanese taxes, which mainly include:
- Income Tax (所得税): Withheld from your salary if employed
- Resident Tax (住民税): Based on your previous year’s income, paid to your city/ward
- 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: A Complete Guide↗
Opening a Bank Account (銀行口座)
A Japanese bank account is essential for salary payments, rent, and utilities.
Major options:
- Japan Post Bank (ゆうちょ銀行) – the most accessible for foreigners
- MUFG Bank, SMBC Bank, Mizuho Bank – large private banks
Documents required:
- Residence Card (在留カード)
- Resident Record (住民票)
- Passport (sometimes requested)
👉 Read more: How to Open a Bank Account in Japan: Step-by-Step Guide↗
Mobile Phone(携帯電話)
To get a mobile phone contract in Japan, you’ll need:
- Residence Card
- Japanese bank account or credit card
- Japanese address
💡 For newcomers, prepaid SIM cards or beginner-friendly providers (like Rakuten Mobile) can be easier to start with.
👉 Read more: How to Get a Mobile Phone in Japan: Step-by-Step Guide↗
Internet (インターネット)
Stable internet is essential for work, study, and daily life.
- Short-term (up to 3 months): Pocket Wi-Fi rental or prepaid SIM/eSIM
- Mid-term (3–12 months): Monthly Pocket Wi-Fi or large-data SIM/eSIM
- Long-term (1+ year): Most apartments already have fiber internet installed—just sign a contract.
👉 Read more: How to Get Internet in Japan: Step-by-Step Guide↗
Additional Tips for a Smooth Start
- Keep copies of all important documents (passport, Residence Card, Resident Record)
- Visit the city hall early in the day—waiting times can be long, especially in April
- Many major cities (Tokyo, Nagoya, Osaka) have international support desks with English and other languages available
Conclusion
Your first steps in Japan—resident registration, My Number, health insurance, taxes, banking, phone, and internet—are the foundation of daily life.
Complete them step by step, and you’ll be ready to focus on work, study, and enjoying your time in Japan.
Note: This article is written for foreigners living in Japan or planning to move to Japan. Conditions and requirements may vary depending on individual circumstances.
