Moving to Japan?【Your First Step】How to Register Your Address & Get a Jūminhyō

Congratulations on starting your new life in Japan!

But after moving in, you might be wondering, “What’s the very first thing I need to do?”

The most important first step for any mid- to long-term resident is residence registration (“jūmin tōroku”).

This single procedure is the foundation for almost everything in your new life here, from getting health insurance to opening a bank account.

This guide will explain how to register your address and get your Certificate of Residence (“jūminhyō”) step-by-step.

Table of Contents

Residence registration is the process of officially notifying your local municipal office (city hall or ward office) where you live.

This applies to all mid- to long-term residents who have a Residence Card (Zairyu Card). It is not required for short-term tourists.

You absolutely need to do this to:

In short, without residence registration, your life in Japan can’t truly begin.

You must complete this procedure within 14 days of moving into your new home.

Missing this deadline can result in a fine, so please make this your top priority after you move.

Go to the municipal office that has jurisdiction over your area.

This will be a City Office (市役所 – shiyakusho) or a Ward Office (区役所 – kuyakusho).

At the office, look for the counter for “Resident Transfers” (住民異動届 – jūmin idō todoke).
Ask for a “Moving-in Notification” form (転入届 – tennyū todoke).
Fill out the form with your name, new address, date of birth, etc. (It’s helpful to have your address written down in Japanese).
Submit the completed form along with your Residence Card and passport at the counter.
The staff will process your registration and write your new address on the back of your Residence Card. That’s it!

A “Jūminhyō” is an official certificate that proves you are a registered resident.

You will need this document for many procedures, such as getting a job or enrolling your child in school.

The easiest way to get one is on the same day you register your address.

At the office, simply tell the staff, “Jūminhyō no utsushi o kudasai” (I’d like a copy of my Jūminhyō).

You will need to fill out a short application form and pay a small fee (usually around 300 yen).

Tip: When applying, you may be asked if you want information like your “Visa Status” or “Residence Card Number” included on the certificate.

Check what information your employer or school requires before you apply.

Remember these key points:

Once you’ve completed this crucial first step, the foundation for your life in Japan is set.

Your next step will be to enroll in National Health Insurance, which will give you peace of mind for any medical needs.

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