How to Obtain a My Number Card for Foreign Residents in Japan

In Japan, if you are a foreign resident, obtaining a My Number Card is essential for various services and identification purposes. This guide outlines the steps and requirements necessary for acquiring this official form of identification.

Eligibility

To apply for a My Number Card, you must be a resident of Japan and registered as a foreign resident with a valid visa. This ensures that you meet the basic eligibility criteria for obtaining the card.

Resident Registration

Before applying for a My Number Card, ensure that you are registered at your local city or ward office, known as shiyakusho or kuyakusho, as a foreign resident. You will need to provide your residence card and other relevant documentation to complete this registration process.

Receive Your My Number

After successful registration, you will be assigned a My Number. This is a unique identification number assigned to residents of Japan to manage personal information and provide services more efficiently. Your My Number is crucial for obtaining the My Number Card.

Application for the My Number Card

The application process for the My Number Card can be done either online or by submitting a paper application form. Typically, you can obtain the application form from your local city or ward office. The required documents for the application include:

Your My Number A recent passport-sized photo Your residence card

Completing and submitting your application may involve several administrative processes. Ensure that all the required information is accurate and up-to-date.

Processing Time

After submitting your application, it may take several weeks to receive your My Number Card. You will be notified by mail when it is ready for pickup. Plan accordingly to manage your time and ensure that you are prepared to collect the card.

Pick Up the Card

To collect your My Number Card, visit your local city or ward office in person. Bring your residence card and any other required identification documents. This process is an important step to ensure that your My Number Card is issued correctly and securely.

Important Notes

It is important to note that the My Number Card serves as an official form of identification and can be used for various services, including healthcare and banking. Always check for the most current procedures and requirements, as they may change over time. If you have any further questions or need assistance regarding specific situations, do not hesitate to ask.

For foreign residents, in Japan, some forms of identification are more commonly required than others. These include:

Driver's license w/ picture (required for driving) Passport issued by your home country w/ picture (required for travel) MyNumber card w/ picture (required for various official purposes) Health insurance card (required for healthcare) Koseki-tohon certificate of family registration (required for some government services) Juminhyo certificate of residence (required for local residency services) Residence card for foreigners w/ picture (required for legal residence)

In many cases, an ID card with a picture is required. However, in some cases, other forms of identification may be sufficient. For instance, tourists who are not residents should carry their passport with them at all times for identification. It is important to carry your residence card to prove legal residence.

Always stay informed about any changes in procedures or requirements, as these can impact your ability to obtain or use identification effectively in Japan. Should you have any questions or need further assistance, do not hesitate to reach out to the relevant authorities or your local immigration office.