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Japan’s My Number System Explained

Japan’s My Number System Explained

Japan’s “My Number” system (マイナンバー制度) is a unique system in Japan. It assigns every resident — Japanese or foreign — a unique 12-digit number for taxation, social security, and government-related procedures. Introduced in 2016, it’s now deeply integrated into Japan’s digital infrastructure and is required for most administrative and financial tasks.

1) What Is the My Number System?

My Number is Japan’s version of a national identification number. It connects your personal information across government databases such as tax, pension, and health insurance. The goal is to streamline processes, prevent errors, and improve efficiency between institutions.

Each resident — including foreign nationals who have lived in Japan for more than three months — receives a My Number notification card or My Number Card after registering their address at the local ward office.

2) What Is It Used For?

My Number is required in many situations that most residents will encounter during everyday life:

  • Taxes: Employers use your My Number for income tax, residence tax, and social insurance filings.
  • Health insurance: Medical providers and insurers use it to manage insurance and medical records.
  • Pension registration: Used to link your national pension contributions and benefits.
  • Banking: Required when opening new accounts or making large transactions to comply with anti–money laundering laws.
  • Government benefits: Used to receive child allowances, unemployment benefits, and disaster relief.

Since 2024, Japan’s My Number Portal has allowed residents to log in and view personal records online — including insurance enrollment and tax payment status — using their card and PIN.

3) How to Apply for a My Number Card

  1. Register your address at your local city or ward office after moving to Japan.
  2. Receive your notification letter by post (this includes your 12-digit My Number).
  3. Apply for the plastic My Number Card either online (QR code provided) or at the city office.
  4. Collect your card in person once it’s ready — you’ll need your residence card and passport.

The My Number Card includes your photo, name, and IC chip. It’s valid for 10 years (5 years for minors). Renewal notices are mailed before expiration.

4) How to Update or Replace Your Card

You must update your card information whenever you change your address, name, or residence status. This can be done at your new city office after moving.

  • If your card is lost or stolen, report it immediately to the My Number Card Call Center for deactivation and reissue.
  • If your residence status or period of stay changes, update your information at the ward office or immigration bureau.

5) Privacy and Security

Japan’s My Number law restricts how organizations can use and share your information. Only authorized agencies (tax, pension, health, and banks) may use your My Number for specific purposes. Private companies are prohibited from asking for it unless legally required.

The Digital Agency manages system oversight, and you can review your access log through the Digital Agency’s official website or the My Number Portal.

6) Tips for Foreign Residents

  • Keep both your My Number and residence cards safe. Losing either can delay administrative tasks.
  • Update your card promptly after moving — failing to do so can cause issues with tax filings and insurance registration.
  • Don’t share your number unnecessarily. Provide it only when officially requested (banks, employers, ward offices).
  • Use your My Number Card online. You can access your health insurance, pension, and tax records digitally through the My Number Portal.

Related Reading

Learn how Japan’s National Health Insurance system works, how it connects to My Number, and how contributions are calculated: Understanding Japan’s Health Insurance System (2025).

Official Sources: My Number Portal | Digital Agency (Government of Japan)

Disclaimer: This content is for general information only and does not constitute legal or administrative advice. Always confirm the latest procedures with your local city or ward office.

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