What to Do After Arriving in Japan: A Step-by-Step Guide for New Residents

What to Do After Arriving in Japan: A Step-by-Step Guide for New Residents

Step 1: Receive Your Residence Card at the Airport

After arriving in Japan, residents will receive their Residence Card at the airport.
Please take clear photos of both the front and back of the card and submit them as instructed.

Step 2: Register Your Address at the Ward Office

Within two weeks of arrival, residents must visit the local ward office where the apartment is located to register their address using the Residence Card.

After completing the address registration, it becomes possible to apply for a mobile phone SIM card.

English-language support for SIM card applications may be available depending on the provider.
When applying, please bring the following documents:

·Passport

·Residence Card

In most cases, the SIM card can be issued on the same day.

Step 3: Open a Bank Account

After obtaining a Japanese phone number, residents are advised to open a bank account as soon as possible.
Opening an account at Japan Post Bank is generally recommended, as it is one of the most accessible options for foreign students and new residents.

Please note the following:

·It usually takes two weeks to one month to receive the physical bank card.

·After receiving the card, please scan the designated QR code to link the bank account with the guarantor company.

Once the account is linked, the guarantor company will be able to automatically debit the monthly rent from the registered bank account on the 27th of each month.