As a foreigner in Japan, dealing with paperwork and address changes can be a bit daunting. But fret not! In this friendly and informative guide, we’ll be your trusty companion, walking you through the important steps and notifications to ensure a smooth experience.

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1: Notification for Employment-Based Residence Status

If you hold a residence status for employment, such as a work visa, it is mandatory to inform the Immigration Bureau about any changes. Whether you leave your current company or join a new one, you must submit a notification within 14 days. You can notify the Immigration Bureau in person, by mail, or online. This process is known as the “Notification of Change in Status of Residence” related to your affiliation.

▼For more information, please visit the website of the Immigration and Immigration Control Agency. (※Using a browser translation tool for English is recommended)

Notification regarding affiliation (activity) organization (Professor, Highly Skilled Professional No. 1 C, Highly Skilled Professional No. 2 (C), Business/Administration, Legal/Accounting Services, Medical Care, Education, Intra-Company Transfer, Technical Intern Training , Study Abroad, Training)

Notification regarding affiliation (contract) organization (Highly skilled professional No. 1 A or B, Highly skilled professional No. 2 (A or B), research, technology/specialist in humanities/international work, nursing care, entertainment, skills, specific skills)

2: Notification for Study-Based Residence Status

If you hold a residence status for study,  it is crucial to notify the Immigration Bureau within 14 days if you leave or enroll in a school. Similar to employment-based notifications, you can submit your notification in person, by mail, or online. This is known as the “Notification of Change in Status of Residence” related to your affiliation.

▼For more information, please visit the website of the Immigration and Immigration Control Agency.　 (※Using a browser translation tool for English is recommended)

3: Notification for Spouses with Residence Status

If you hold a residence status as a spouse, such as “Spouse of a Japanese National” or “Spouse of a Permanent Resident,” it’s important to notify the Immigration Bureau within 14 days in case of divorce or the death of your spouse. You can submit the notification in person, by mail, or online. This is referred to as the “Notification of Change in Status of Residence” related to your spouse.

▼For more information, please visit the website of the Immigration and Immigration Control Agency.　 (※Using a browser translation tool for English is recommended)

4: Address Change Procedures

When you change your residential address, it’s crucial to report the change to the ward office in your new location within 14 days. Remember, the earlier you complete the necessary procedures, the better. The process involves submitting a “Moving Out Notification” to the municipal office at your previous address, followed by a “Moving In Notification” to the ward office at your new address. Your new address will be updated on the back of your residence card.

5: Updating Information on Your Residence Card

If there are any changes in the information such as your name, gender, or nationality; You must obtain a new passport from your home country with the updated details. You must update your residence card and then, within 14 days of receiving the new passport, visit the Immigration Bureau to obtain a new residence card reflecting the updated information. For instance, if there is a change in your last name after you get married, you should get your Resident Card updated following the procedures above.

Conclusion

In conclusion, as a foreigner living in Japan, it’s important to stay informed about the necessary documents and procedures. By promptly notifying the relevant authorities and completing the required steps within the specified timeline, you can ensure a smooth and compliant stay in Japan.

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※Translated from a Japanese article. Find the original article here.