Resident Registration
Resident registration is the process of officially recording your place of residence.
*Foreign nationals who are long-term residents (those with a residence card) with a stay period exceeding 3 months are required to register.
Procedures
- STEP1
Document Preparation
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- Confirm the required documents at the local government office for your place of residence and prepare all necessary documents.
- Required Documents Passport, residence card, and other identification documents
- STEP2
Go to the Local Government Office
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Take the documents you have prepared and head to the local government office for your place of residence.
It's helpful to check the office's reception hours and required documents in advance to ensure a smooth process.
- STEP3
Procedure Reception
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Once you arrive at the local government office, proceed with the necessary procedures.
The staff will guide you, so follow their instructions to complete the process.
If you are not confident in your Japanese language skills, it is recommended to write down the following information on a note or similar document and bring it with you.
- Name (Romanized and Katakana versions of first and last names)
*As registered on the residence card - Current address in Japan (written in Japanese)
*For apartment-style housing (apartments, condominiums, etc.), include the building name and room number - Date of birth (both in Japanese calendar and Gregorian calendar)
- Current age (written as "満[XX]歳")
*In Japan, a person is considered 0 years old at birth, and they age by one year every time they celebrate a birthday. - Date of entry into Japan (the year and month of arrival)
- Phone number that can be reached in Japan
*If you don't have your own number, provide a trusted acquaintance's or your organization's number
By completing the resident registration, your address in Japan will be officially recognized, and you will be able to proceed with various procedures.
Insurance Enrollment
In Japan, it is mandatory for foreign students who stay for more than 3 months to join the National Health Insurance.
National Health Insurance is a very convenient system when receiving medical care within Japan.
National Health Insurance (Kokumin Kenko Hoken)
National Health Insurance (Kokumin Kenko Hoken) is an insurance system in Japan that helps reduce medical expenses.
When you visit a medical institution that accepts health insurance due to an injury or illness, by presenting the National Health Insurance card, 70% of the medical expenses covered by the Health Insurance Act will be paid by the National Health Insurance. You only need to pay the remaining 30% for treatment.
Foreigners staying in Japan for more than 3 months are required to join the "National Health Insurance."
How to Apply
Apply at the municipal office (city or ward office) of your place of residence. It is recommended to apply immediately after completing the residence registration. Required Documents Passport, residence card, student ID, and other forms of identificationNote If you don't apply for health insurance immediately after registering your residence, the medical expenses during the uninsured period may be your responsibility, and past premiums may be collected retroactively.
Insurance Fee Payment
You will pay the insurance fee according to the payment slip that will be sent to your address later.
After receiving the payment slip, you can pay the insurance fee at the municipal office or at a convenience store.
Insurance Fee Reduction Measures
The amount of National Health Insurance premiums is calculated based on the previous year's income. (Scholarships such as study grants are not included in income.)
If the previous year's income is below a certain threshold, you may be eligible for a reduction in premiums.
If you haven't declared your income, you won't be able to receive the reduction measures.
Some international students may not receive the reduction measures because they did not declare their income, so be sure to submit the declaration.
The eligibility and application methods for the reduction measures vary depending on the municipality, so it's recommended to check with your local municipal office for details. Properly submitting the declaration may help reduce the financial burden.
Other Insurances
National Health Insurance (Kokumin Kenko Hoken) alone may not provide enough coverage in case of unexpected accidents or illnesses.
If you want additional peace of mind, consider joining medical insurance or overseas travel insurance offered by insurance companies.
These insurances cover medical expenses not covered by National Health Insurance and help prepare for unexpected illnesses or injuries, so they are important for living with peace of mind.
Especially for international students, it is advisable to take out additional insurance to be prepared for unexpected medical costs.
The coverage and premiums offered by insurance companies vary, so it's recommended to compare multiple plans and choose one that suits you.
Pension
Everyone aged 20 to 59 living in Japan, regardless of nationality, is required to join the Japanese public pension system (either the Employee Pension Insurance or the National Pension).
By paying monthly premiums, you will receive money in the event of unforeseen events such as old age, disability, or death.
If you are a student or have low income, you can apply for an exemption from the National Pension.
When you complete your residence registration and National Health Insurance procedures, also complete the National Pension enrollment and exemption application.
Details can be found on the Japan Pension Service website.
【Japan Pension Service】National Pension System
【Japan Pension Service】National Pension Fee Exemption for Students
Opening a Bank Account
To open a bank account in Japan as an international student, there are several requirements.
Please check the following points.
- 【Condition 1】You must have been residing in Japan for 6 months or more.
- 【Condition 2】You must be registered as a resident in Japan.
Identity Proof You will need identification documents such as your passport or residence card.
Address Proof A document that proves your Japanese address (for example, a residence certificate, housing contract, or rent receipt) is required.
Student ID You will need a document proving you are an international student, such as an international student certificate or student ID.
Personal Seal (Inkan) A personal seal is useful not only for opening a bank account but also for other situations in daily life in Japan, so it is convenient to have one made.
Once you have gathered these documents, you can apply to open a bank account.
Depending on the bank, additional documents or procedures may be required, so it is a good idea to check directly with the bank in advance.
In bank procedures, complex Japanese expressions may be used.
If you are unsure about your Japanese language skills, it is recommended to consult with your school or the foreigner support services in your local area.
* If you are returning to your home country (except for temporary visits), you will need to close your bank account. Be sure to confirm all necessary procedures to avoid getting involved in any crimes or legal issues.
