Navigating Life in Japan: A Guide to Essential Procedures
Navigating Life in Japan: A Guide to Essential Procedures
Welcome to Japan! To ensure a smooth transition and peace of mind, understanding essential government procedures is crucial.
Here's a breakdown of key steps you must complete within 14 days of arrival:
1. Transfer Procedure (Transfer Notification):
- Visit the Family Registration Division at your local municipal office.
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Fill out the designated form with your residential address.
(English forms are available, but bringing mail with your Japanese address is recommended.) - Submit the form and your residence card.
- The staff will verify your address and update your residence card.
2. National Health Insurance Enrollment:
Japan National Health Insurance Card Sample
- Visit the designated department (separate from the transfer procedure).
- Fill out the designated form with your address. (Japanese address documentation is helpful.)
- You may receive your insurance card immediately or by mail later.
- Premiums are around 2-3,000 yen per month for international students.
- Pay the premiums via convenience store, bank, or ATM using the provided slip before the due date.
- Always carry your insurance card to the hospital.
Additional Information:
- My Number Card:
Automatically processed during the transfer procedure. This card links to taxes and other essential services. You'll receive it by mail 1-2 months later and must submit it to your workplace if employed. Please manage it securely. - Office Hours:
Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (exceptions exist). In Tokyo, some offices may be open on Saturdays. - Be prepared for crowds and waiting times.
Allow ample time for your visit.
Navigating these procedures can be challenging. Our team of experts specializes in helping foreigners settle in Japan. We offer:
- Registration guidance: We explain each procedure, answer your questions, and accompany you to government offices.
- Document preparation support: We help you fill out forms accurately and ensure all necessary documentation is in order.
- Translation support: We provide language assistance to overcome communication barriers.
Moving Within Japan: Navigating Government Procedures
Moving within Japan involves specific government procedures to ensure a smooth transition. Here's a breakdown of the essential steps:
1. Move-Out Procedure (Move-Out Notification):
- This can be initiated at your current municipal office 14 days before your move date.
- The form is similar to the "transfer procedure" upon entering Japan.
- Bring a piece of mail with your current address in Japanese.
- The staff will verify Obtain a "Certificate of Transfer" for the next step.
- Completing this before moving avoids potential inconveniences, especially for long-distance moves.
2. Move-In Procedure (Move-In Notification):
- This must be completed within 14 days of moving at your new municipal office.
- You'll need to write both your previous and new addresses on the designated form.
- Bring the completed form, your residence card, and the "Certificate of Transfer" from the previous step.
- The staff will verify your address and update your residence card.
3. National Health Insurance Enrollment Procedures:
- These are similar to the procedures upon entering Japan.
- Complete them after the move-in procedure.
- Discard your old insurance card.
Navigating these procedures can be challenging. Our team of experts specializes in helping foreigners settle in Japan. We offer:
- Registration guidance: We explain each procedure, answer your questions, and accompany you to government offices.
- Document preparation support: We help you fill out forms accurately and ensure all necessary documentation is in order.
- Translation support: We provide language assistance to overcome communication barriers.
| Procedure | Location | Period & Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Move-Out Procedure (Move-Out Notification) |
Current municipal office | 14 days before your move date |
| Move-In Procedure (Move-In Notification) |
New municipal office | Within 14 days after moving |
| National Health Insurance Enrollment | New municipal office | After the move-in procedure |
Additional Information:
- My Number Card:
Automatically issued during transfer procedures and residence card renewals. - Office Hours:
Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (exceptions exist). -
Allow ample time for your visits, as offices can be crowded.
Remember: These procedures are crucial to maintain your resident status and access essential services. Don't hesitate to have us help out if you want to ensure a smooth process.
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Navigating Emergencies and Everyday Life in Japan
Knowing essential contact information is crucial in case of emergencies like accidents or fires. Remember, Japan has separate numbers for different situations:
Emergency Contact Information:
- Incident/Accident: 110 (Police)
- Fire/Sudden Illness: 119 (Fire Department/Ambulance)
Smoking Area
Smoking:
- Age Restriction: Smoking is prohibited for anyone under 20 years old. ID verification is common at purchase points.
- Smoking Locations: Many establishments have designated smoking areas or are entirely smoke-free. Smoking is prohibited on public transportation and in certain areas throughout Tokyo.
- Cigarette Costs: A pack of cigarettes costs roughly 600 yen.
- Electronic Cigarettes: Becoming increasingly popular, these devices are subject to similar regulations as traditional cigarettes.
- NO SMOKING! There are "no smoking" areas in some parts of Tokyo, and violators can be fined up to 50,000 yen.
Drinking:
- Age Restriction: Similar to smoking, alcohol consumption is prohibited for anyone under 20 years old. ID checks are common.
- Providing Alcohol to Minors: Allowing a minor to drink is illegal.
- Outdoor Drinking: While permissible in some areas like parks, be mindful of noise levels and respect others.
Additional Notes:
- Cigarettes can be purchased at convenience stores, supermarkets, and vending machines.
- E-cigarettes are available at various retailers and cost around 500 yen per pack.
Remember to follow these guidelines for a safe and enjoyable experience in Japan.
