Resident Registration — Chuo

Resident Registration — What You Need to Know

Resident registration (転入届 / tenshutsu-todoke) is the most important procedure after arriving in Japan. Without it, you cannot sign up for health insurance, pension, bank accounts, or a SIM card. You have 14 days from your move-in date to complete this at your local city hall.

What Happens at City Hall

The process typically takes 30-60 minutes (longer if the office is crowded). Here is what to expect:

1. Take a number ticket at the reception desk and wait for your turn
2. Fill out the Moving-in Notification form (転入届) — staff can help you if needed
3. Submit the form with your Residence Card and passport
4. Your Residence Card will be updated with your new address (stamped on the back)
5. You will receive a Resident Record (住民票) confirming your registration

Do I Need to Speak Japanese?

Many city halls in areas with large foreign populations have multilingual staff or interpreters available. In Tokyo (Shinjuku, Shibuya, Minato), Osaka, Nagoya, and Yokohama, English support is common. Smaller cities may not have interpreters, but the forms are straightforward and staff are accustomed to helping foreign residents. Consider bringing a Japanese-speaking friend if you are worried.