Quick Answer
Osaka City is divided into 24 wards, each with its own ward office (区役所). For address registration, NHI, and tax certificates, visit your local ward office. The Osaka City One-Stop Service Center for Foreign Residents at Nanba provides multilingual support in English, Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, and other languages.
Key Offices
| Office | Address | Phone | Services |
|---|---|---|---|
| Osaka City Hall (大阪市役所) | Nakanoshima 1-3-20, Kita-ku | 06-6208-8181 | Central admin (not for resident registration) |
| One-Stop Center for Foreign Residents | Nanba area, Chuo-ku | 06-6773-6533 | Multilingual consultation, daily life support |
| Osaka Immigration Bureau | Nanko-Kita 1-29-53, Suminoe-ku | 06-4703-2100 | Visa renewals, COE, status changes |
Ward Office System
Unlike Tokyo's 23 special wards, Osaka City has 24 administrative wards. You handle most daily procedures at your local ward office: address registration, NHI enrollment, tax certificates, and child-related services. Popular wards for foreign residents include Nishi-ku, Chuo-ku, Ikuno-ku, and Naniwa-ku.
One-Stop Service Center for Foreign Residents
Osaka City operates a One-Stop Center that provides comprehensive support for foreign residents in multiple languages. Services include help with administrative procedures, daily life issues, employment, housing, and referrals to specialized agencies. No appointment needed for most consultations.
FAQ
Q: Which ward office do I go to?
A: Go to the ward office for the ward where you live. For example, if you live in Nishi-ku, visit Nishi Ward Office. Your address determines your assigned ward office.
Q: Does Osaka have English support at ward offices?
A: Most ward offices have tablet interpreter services. The One-Stop Center provides dedicated multilingual staff. Larger wards like Chuo-ku and Kita-ku may have more language support.
Disclaimer
Office hours and services may change. Contact your local ward office or the One-Stop Center for current information.
Last updated: April 2026.