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How to Register Your Address and My Number After Moving in Japan

How to Register Your Address and My Number After Moving in Japan

After moving to a new home in Japan, it’s important to register your new address and update your My Number (マイナンバー) details. These two things are essential for everything from health insurance and taxes to opening a bank account or even signing up for utilities. This guide explains how the process works, what documents you need, and what to expect when visiting your local city or ward office.

1) Why Address Registration Matters

When you move to a new apartment or house in Japan, you are required by law to notify your local ward or city office within 14 days of moving. This process is called tennyu todoke (転入届) or address registration.

Once completed, your residence card is updated with your new address, and this change automatically links to government systems such as the National Health Insurance, pension, and tax records.

2) Step-by-Step: How to Register Your Address

  1. Go to your local city or ward office — You must visit in person, as unfortunately online registration is not yet available for new addresses.
  2. Bring those equired documents:
    • Residence Card (在留カード)
    • Passport
    • Lease agreement or proof of address (e.g., utility bill, juminhyo)
    • My Number Card (if you already have one)
  3. Fill in the tennyu todoke form — Staff will help if you’re unsure how to write in Japanese.
  4. Get your residence card updated — The new address is printed or stickered on the back of your card immediately.
  5. Confirm related updates — If you are joining or changing National Health Insurance, it can usually be handled at the same counter.

Tip: Even if you move within the same city, you still need to file a tenkyo todoke (転居届). It’s a quick process but still required to keep your records accurate.

3) Understanding the My Number (マイナンバー) System

The My Number system assigns every resident in Japan a unique 12-digit number used for taxes, social insurance, and identification. If you already live in Japan, you likely received your My Number notification card after registering your first address. If not, you can apply for a My Number Card (個人番号カード) at your local city hall.

How to Apply for or Update a My Number Card

  • Submit the application form you received by mail (or apply at the ward office).
  • Bring your residence card, passport, and a recent photo (passport size).
  • Your card will be mailed or ready for pickup in about 2–3 weeks.

If you’ve moved, update your address on your My Number card at the city office when you submit your address change. The chip information is rewritten during this process.

4) After Registration — What to Update

  • Bank account – Update your address so you continue receiving statements and avoid identity verification issues.
  • Employer or school – Necessary for payroll and tax forms.
  • Health insurance and pension – If enrolled through your company, HR will usually handle the update.
  • Mobile phone and utilities – Each provider requires your new address for billing and verification.

5) What If You Register Late?

Technically, failing to register within 14 days can result in a fine (up to ¥50,000 under the law), but in practice, most city offices are flexible and understanding, especially if you explain your situation. Staff will usually just remind you to complete the process as soon as possible and help you fix any missing information.

Japan’s local government offices are known for being polite and patient — don’t hesitate to ask for help if you’re unsure of any steps or forms.

6) Quick Comparison: Address Registration vs. My Number Card

Process Handled At Documents Needed Time Required
Address Registration (転入届) Local ward/city office Residence Card, passport, lease or proof of address 30–60 minutes (same day)
My Number Card Update Same office, separate counter Residence Card, old My Number card 10–20 minutes (same day)
New My Number Card Application Ward office or by mail Application form, photo, ID 2–3 weeks (by mail)

7) Related Reading

Moving to Japan or just relocated to a new apartment? Check out our other practical guides:

Disclaimer: This guide is for general informational purposes only and does not replace advice from your local city or ward office. Requirements and forms can vary slightly by municipality. Always confirm with your local office before visiting.

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