Welcome to “Nightingale in Japan”! In this comprehensive video, we dive deep into the essential IDs and documents you’ll need for a smooth and hassle-free experience in Japan. Whether you’re planning a short visit or considering a longer stay, this guide covers everything from passports and visas to health insurance and residence cards.
Key Sections:
Passport, Visas, and Custom Entry Forms (00:00:10): Understanding the basics for entering Japan.
Embassy or Consulate Information (00:00:23): What to do if you encounter passport issues in Japan.
Visa Application Process (00:00:47): A step-by-step guide to different types of visas.
Customs Entry Forms at Airport (00:01:10): Navigating through customs with ease.
Residence Card (Zairyu Card) Information (00:02:18): The must-have ID for longer stays.
Health Insurance in Japan (00:04:18): Breaking down social and national health insurance options.
My Number Card Explained (00:05:40): How this card streamlines your life in Japan.
Jumin Hyo (Resident Certificate) (00:07:21): The indispensable proof of address.
Japan’s Transportation Cards (00:09:16): Effortless travel with Suika and Passmo cards.
Getting a Driver’s License in Japan (00:11:07): Essential info for driving in Japan.
🔗 Useful Resources:
Residency Card: https://japanswitch.com/ultimate-guide-to-the-zairyu-card-in-japan/
https://www.japan-experience.com/plan-your-trip/to-know/before-you-travel/residence-card-zairyu-card
https://www.smileswallet.com/japan/renewing-your-residence-card-in-japan-a-guide-for-foreigners/
Residency card renewal:
https://www.moj.go.jp/isa/applications/procedures/16-3-1.html
Health Insurance Cards: Social Health Insurance (Shakai Hoken) & National Health Insurance (Kokumin Kenkou Hoken)
https://www.metroresidences.com/jp-en/expat-life/japan/all-you-need-to-know-as-a-foreigner-about-the-national-health-insurance-in-japan/
https://moneykit.net/en/notice/17.html
My Number Card:
https://www.kojinbango-card.go.jp/en/
Residency Certificate Juminhyo:
https://mailmate.jp/blog/how-to-get-juminhyo
https://wagaya-japan.com/en/journal_detail.php?id=5238
Transport Cards:
https://www.jreast.co.jp/e/pass/suica.html
https://www.westjr.co.jp/global/en/ticket/icoca-haruka/
Drivers License:
https://workjapan.fairness-world.com/en/japanese-drivers-license/
https://english.jaf.or.jp/driving-in-japan/drive-in-japan/foreign-nationals-license
Link To Japanese Banking Video https://youtu.be/3a0R39kjvw8
Planning a trip to Japan? In this video I’ll guide you through essential IDs and documents needed for a smooth experience. Whether you’re visiting or staying long term, let’s jump in. Passport, visas and custom entry forms A valid passport is the cornerstone of your
Journey to Japan. It’s mandatory for entry and must be valid for the duration of your stay. If you find your passport near an expiry while in Japan, don’t worry, you can contact your country’s embassy or consulate in Japan for renewal procedures. However, if your passport
Is lost or stolen, it’s crucial to act quickly. Report the incident to the local police and seek guidance from your embassy or consulate to obtain a replacement. When it comes to visas, there are several types to be aware of, including tourist, work, student
And spousal visas, each tailored to different travel purposes. The application process typically involves submitting necessary documents like your passport and application forms along with any additional requirements specific to the type of visa you’re applying for. If you’re already in Japan and need to renew or change your visa status, this usually requires
A visit to the nearest immigration office with the relevant documents and application forms in hand. Upon arriving in Japan, you’ll need to complete customs entry forms. These forms are vital for declaring items and stating the purpose of your visit. It’s important
To be aware of what items are not allowed or restricted in Japan and make sure you adhere to the duty-free allowance. To streamline the process at the airport, some of these entry procedures can now be completed online before your arrival. This pre-arrival submission
Allows for quicker processing at customs, helping you to pass through the airport more efficiently. Remember, accurately and honestly declaring all items is crucial to avoid any legal issues upon entering Japan. Before I discuss the other identity documents, I must
Inform you that in situations where you’re only come to Japan for 90 days, you may not need most of the cards mentioned as you will be visiting in a tourist capacity. I still recommend that you do some research to ensure you understand your situation before embarking
On your journey to Japan. I’ve left some resources in the description to help you with your decision making. There are also some bonus tips at the end of the video that would be relevant to long-term or short-term visitors. With your entry documents sorted, let’s look at
What you need for longer stays. The residence card or the Zairu card is your official ID in Japan. It’s a must-have for anyone staying longer than 90 days. Crucial for daily activities like opening a bank account or registering for a phone and it displays how long you’ll
Be residing in Japan. You can get one of these cards upon arrival as you come through customs, where they will need to check your travel documents and visa. Alternatively, you can get one of these cards at your local municipal office where they will require a passport
And I’d recommend taking additional documents such as your visa, manage certificate and employment contract if you have one. I should also mention that you need to pick up your card within 14 days of settling into Japan and any updates or changes after that can
Be done by revisiting the municipal office. If you lose or the card is stolen, you will need to report it to the local police station and then reapply for a new card. The cards generally have a validity of about 5-7 years and in the event you need to renew it, again,
You need to go to your nearest municipal or hall for renewal. You will also need to ensure that you get the card renewed before 30 days of its expiry. To renew the card, you will need the following. Application for stay, extension available at the immigration offices
Or online, current residence card, passport, one photo with a 4x3cm plain white background and in the photo you can’t have any hats. Other necessary documentation like proof of employment, tax papers etc. based on your situation. I need to let you know that if you’re over
16 years old, you need to carry the residency card on you at all times. Shogun’s responsibility can lend you in hot water if you get a random request for the card by the police, which you’re obligated to show. If you refuse this request, you could be chucked into the
Salama for up to a year or face a fine of up to 200,000 yen. Rest assured the next cards don’t carry such a weight in in that capacity and you’d only end up pissing yourself off more if you forget them. After securing your residence card, it’s crucial to understand
Japan’s health insurance system. In Japan there are two main types of health insurance. Social health insurance known as the Shakai Hoken and national health insurance or Kokumen Hakenko Hoken. Shakai Hoken is usually provided by employers and includes both health insurance
And a pension component with cost shared between the employer and employee based on salary. It’s ideal for full-time employees planning the longest day in Japan. On the other hand, Kokumen Haken is for those not covered by employer provided insurance like self-employed
Individuals, students, part-time workers and retirees. You can enrol in this at your local municipal office with fees based on income and household. It covers a wide range of medical treatments but doesn’t include a pension component which needs to be managed separately.
With both types of insurance, you’re expected to pay about 30% of your medical costs with insurance covering the rest. It’s essential to have your insurance card with you for medical visits as health insurance is a legal requirement in Japan regardless of your employment status.
I’m on a spousal visa and I’m on my wife’s health insurance, therefore I’m on the social health insurance. This has helped me out upon arrival, especially after I broke my finger and fractured my ribs during my bicycle accident. After health insurance, another key piece
Of the puzzle is my number card. Here’s why it’s important. The my number card in Japan is far more than a simple ID. It’s your key to efficiently navigating the Japanese bureaucracy. This card only streamlines various bureaucratic procedures like tax filings, social security and healthcare services but also serves as
An official identification for residents. Its convenience extends to online services as well, being essential for tasks such as tax returns, visa renewals and access in various government services. Moreover, it’s necessary for registering for public services and facilities and proves helpful in financial transactions like open and bank accounts. Applying for
The my number card is straightforward. You can start the process at your local municipal office after receiving a notification card with a 12-digit individual number. The application requires standard size photos along with identification documents like your passport. The verification process takes about three to four weeks after which you’ll receive
A notice to collect your card. In case of loss, it’s important to report immediately to the my number call centre and the police and then you can apply for a reissued card at your ward office. Keep in mind that the card is valid for ten years or five years
For those under twenty and you’ll receive renewal notices as the expiry date approaches. Applying the my number card simplifies many aspects of daily life in Japan, making it a valuable asset for both short term and long term residents. Whilst I’ve been in Japan
For nine months, at the time of this video I still do not have a my number card, but do have a my number that was assigned to me by the local municipal hall. I should also mention that in order for me to receive my online teaching funds from PayPal, they require
My number. In order for me to show them evidence of this, I needed to apply for the next document in the line-up. The Jumin Hyo, known as the resident certificate, is an indispensable document in Japan. Serving as your official proof of address is not just a formality, it’s an
Essential part of administrative life in Japan. Listing your full name, date of birth, gender, address and foreign residence, details like nationalities, status of residence and period of stay, this certificate is crucial for various tasks from employment related procedures to
Registering for social services, and even when you need to open a bank account, obtaining the Jumin Hyo is straightforward. You can acquire one at the municipal office, in the city, ward, town or village where you reside. The process typically involves filling out
A form, presenting an official identification document such as a driver’s license or your my number card and paying a nominal handling fee. For added convenience, if you have a my number card which is an identification card equipped with an IC chip, you can easily
Obtain your residence record from a convenience store’s photocopying machine. The service generally available from early morning to late evening is especially handy if visiting the municipal office proves difficult due to work or school commitments. In some cases, municipalities even offer the option to request your residence record by mail. This process
Includes sending a completed application form, a copy of your identification document, the handling fee and a stamp return envelope to your municipal office. It’s important to keep your Jumin Hyo updated. If your address or personal information changes, make sure it updates your certificate accordingly. Since 2012, the system has been inclusive of both
Japanese and non-Japanese citizens, streamlining government processes and ensuring equal treatment for all residents. The Jumin Hyo is not just a formality but a key document that facilitates your daily life and administrative dealings in Japan. Now, for some bonus tips to make your life in Japan even easier. You might be wondering
If there’s an easier way to get around Japan without the hassle of buying paper tickets every time. Well, that brings us to our first bonus section. Let’s dive into the world of Japan’s transport cards such as the Suika and Passmore which are game changers for navigating
The country. These transport cards widely accepted on JR trains, private and municipal trains, buses and even in some shopping contexts are the epitome of convenience. They eliminate the need to buy individual tickets for each journey, streamlining your commute and making
Travel more efficient. Depending on where in Japan you are, you’ll find regional variations like the Suika predominantly used in Tokyo and its surrounding regions and the Icoka which is more common in Western Japan, including cities like Osaka, Kyoto and Kobe. These
Cards issued by different railway companies are easily obtainable at JR station ticket vending machines, designated counters and convenience stores and can even be linked to the NFC enabled smartphones for added ease of use. One of the great features of these cards is their refund
Policy. If you end up with a remaining balance on your card after your travels, you can claim a refund although a small fee may apply if the balance is substantial. Furthermore, since 2013, major Ic cars like Suika and Icoka have been made compatible with each other meaning
You can seamlessly travel on almost all trains, subways and buses across most major cities in Japan with just one of these cards. Beyond transportation, these cards have additional utility in everyday life. They can be used for payments of various vending machines,
Shops and restaurants, adding to their versatility. Given the widespread acceptability and the convenience they offer, it’s advisable to pick up a Suika card if you’re primarily staying around the Tokyo area or an Icoka card if you’re planning to explore West Japan.
Finally, we come to our second bonus section. For those of you joining us in Japan but not keen on joining the ranks of us pedestrian peasants, let’s talk about getting a driver’s license in Japan. Having a valid driver’s license is essential especially if you plan to drive in
Japan. Driving without a valid license is a serious offence and could lead to severe legal consequences, even deportation. Whether you need a car largely depends on your location in Japan in major cities like Tokyo or Osaka, the public transport system is so efficient
That a car might not be necessary. However, in less urban areas, a car can be incredibly useful. If you come into Japan with an international driver’s license, based on the Geneva Convention, it remains valid for up to a year from the date of issue or from your date of landing in Japan,
Whichever comes first. For residents from specific countries such as Switzerland, Germany, France, Belgium, Monaco and even Taiwan, their national driver’s licenses can be used in Japan for up to a year, but only with a certified translation of the license. For those with a valid foreign
Driver’s license looking to convert it to a Japanese one, the process known as the Gaiman Kirikai involves document verification. Depending on your country of origin, you might be exempt from taking the written and driving test. For instance, license holders from countries like
Australia, Canada, France, Germany, the UK and some US states often have this exemption. The conversion process typically requires a Japanese translation of your foreign license, submission of required documents and possibly undergoing aptitude and written tests. If you don’t have a valid foreign license and need a Japanese driver’s license, the process is similar
To that for Japanese citizens. This includes attending driving school, passing tests on traffic laws and completing a driving skills test. Some driving schools offer courses in foreign languages, making it a viable option for complete beginners. Japanese driver’s licenses need to be renewed
Every three to five years based on your driving history. The renewal process involves attending a lecture, undergoing an eyesight exam, taking a photograph and paying a fee. It’s crucial to keep your license information, especially your dress up to date. Additionally, adhering to car
Related regulations to Japan, like car registration and mandatory insurance, is vital. In case of accidents, immediate reporting to the police or call an ambulance is necessary. Remember, the driver’s license also serves as a form of ID in Japan. Also, the specific requirements and
Processes can vary slightly based on the prefectural driver’s license centre, so it’s advisable to check with the local centre for most of the accurate information. As a bonus point, when I tried to get my Australian driver’s license updated, I would normally be able to pay for it
Over the internet. I only had a week left to pay to renew the license. I logged into the website, attempted to pay, and lo and behold, no, I’m not allowed. And I have to go on to the premises to
Renew it. How in the fuck am I meant to try and go into the premises when I’m in Japan? I quickly tried going to the driver’s license building to apply for a Japanese license before the Aussie wanted expired. I then found out I would need many of my documents translated.
I was gutted and lived at the same time. Please ensure you have enough time left on your driver’s license before attempting to apply for the Japanese license. In today’s video, we covered passports, visas and customs entry forms, the residency card, the national health insurance card,
And social health insurance card, the my number card, the resident certificate, the Jumin Hyo, with my number and the two bonuses, the transport cards and the driver’s license. I hope this video has provided you insight into the ID and documents required for entry and your
Time within Japan. I have also made a complimentary video to this one that covers what you need to know about opening a Japanese bank account and let me tell you, it wasn’t as straightforward as you
Might think. It was quite a pain in the ass. You can click the video here. Once again, I have included resources from today’s video in the description. I recommend that you still try and do some research to ensure that it matches your situation. And on that note, thank you for watching
The video about the IDs you need for Japan. Thanks again. Bye for now.
1 Comment
Hello Ello, please let me know if there's other topics you'd like me to Cover. In the next informational video, I will try and improve the look on how the information is presented. It's all a work in progress. Thanks for watching 😊