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How to File a Moving Out and Moving In Notice in Japan

How to File a Moving Out and Moving In Notice in Japan (転出届・転入届 Step-by-Step Guide)

If you’re moving in Japan, there’s one thing you absolutely cannot ignore:

You must officially report your address change at city hall.

This involves two possible notices:

  • Moving-out notice (転出届 – tenshutsu todoke)
  • Moving-in notice (転入届 – tennyū todoke)

If you don’t do this properly, you can run into problems with health insurance, residence records, banking, and even immigration procedures.

Here’s exactly how it works — in plain language.

First: Are You Moving Within the Same City or to a Different City?

The process depends on where you’re moving.

Moving to a different city, ward, or municipality

  • File a 転出届 (moving-out notice) at your old city hall
  • File a 転入届 (moving-in notice) at your new city hall

Moving within the same city

  • File a 転居届 (change of address within city)

If you’re unsure, search Google Maps for:

「〇〇市役所 住所変更」 (Replace 〇〇 with your city name)

When Do You Need to Do This?

You are generally required to report your move within 14 days of moving.

This deadline matters. While you’re unlikely to be “punished” immediately, delays can cause:

  • Insurance issues
  • Tax complications
  • Problems renewing documents

The legal basis for address reporting is outlined under Japan’s Basic Resident Registration Act. The Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications provides official guidance here:

Ministry of Internal Affairs – Resident Registration Information

Step 1: Filing a Moving-Out Notice (転出届)

If you’re moving to a different city, start here.

Go to your current city hall and say:

「転出届を出したいです。」
(Tenshutsu todoke o dashitai desu.)
“I would like to file a moving-out notice.”

Bring:

  • Residence card
  • My Number card (if you have one)
  • Health insurance card

You’ll receive a 転出証明書 (moving-out certificate). Keep this carefully — you’ll need it at your new city hall.

Step 2: Filing a Moving-In Notice (転入届)

Once you’ve moved, go to your new city hall.

Say:

「転入届を出したいです。」
(Tennyū todoke o dashitai desu.)
“I would like to file a moving-in notice.”

Bring:

  • Your residence card
  • 転出証明書 (from previous city)
  • My Number card (if applicable)

Your residence card address will be updated on the spot.

If you are enrolled in National Health Insurance, you will re-register here as well.

If You’re Moving Within the Same City

You don’t need a moving-out certificate.

Just say:

「転居届を出したいです。」
(Tenkyo todoke o dashitai desu.)

Bring your residence card and My Number card.

Common Mistakes People Make

  • Waiting too long (more than 14 days)
  • Forgetting to update the bank separately
  • Assuming their employer handles everything
  • Not bringing the moving-out certificate

City hall updates do not automatically update your bank, phone provider, or employer records.

What Happens If You’re Late?

If you miss the 14-day deadline, go anyway.

In most cases:

  • You’ll be asked why it’s late
  • You may need to write a short explanation
  • The process continues normally

Delays matter more if they affect insurance or tax timing.

Checklist Before You Leave City Hall

  • Residence card address updated
  • Health insurance status confirmed
  • My Number card updated (if applicable)
  • Ask for a Certificate of Residence (住民票) if you need one

After City Hall: Don’t Forget These

City hall is only the first step.

You still need to update:

  • Bank accounts
  • Credit cards
  • Employer records
  • Driving licence
  • Mobile phone contracts

This is where many people run into problems later.

Key Takeaways

  • Report your move within 14 days
  • Moving to a different city requires two steps
  • Bring your residence card and required documents
  • Address updates do not automatically update everything else
  • Even if you’re late, go and fix it

Filing your moving notices in Japan isn’t complicated — but it is your responsibility. If you handle it promptly and bring the right documents, the process is usually quick and straightforward.

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