Life in Japan — Complete Guide

Resident Registration

Step-by-step guide to submitting your moving-in notification (tennyuu todoke) and registering your address at city hall in Japan.

Health Insurance

Everything foreign residents need to know about enrolling in Japan's National Health Insurance system, including eligibility, costs, and how to apply at your local city hall.

Pension

Understanding Japan's National Pension (Kokumin Nenkin) system, enrollment requirements, and benefits for foreign residents.

SIM Card

How foreign residents in Japan can get a SIM card or mobile phone contract, including budget MVNOs, major carriers, and required documents.

Bank Account

How to open a bank account in Japan as a foreign resident, including required documents, recommended banks, and tips for new arrivals.

Housing

How to find and rent an apartment in Japan, including the rental process, costs, and tips for foreign residents.

Garbage Disposal

How to sort and dispose of garbage correctly in Japan, including collection schedules, sorting rules, and penalties.

Childcare Support

Information on childcare services, child allowance, nursery enrollment, and parenting support available to foreign families in Japan.

Disaster Prevention

How to prepare for earthquakes, typhoons, and other natural disasters in Japan, including emergency contacts and evacuation procedures.

Driving License

How to convert a foreign driver's license, get a new license, use an International Driving Permit, and understand traffic rules in Japan.

Visa / Residence Status

Overview of visa categories and residence statuses in Japan, including work visas, student visas, family visas, and the path to permanent residence. Consult a professional for specific guidance.

Permanent Residence

Requirements, application process, and tips for obtaining permanent residence (eijuuken) in Japan.

Tax

Understanding income tax, resident tax, and tax filing requirements for foreign nationals living in Japan.

International Remittance

How to send money abroad from Japan, comparing banks, money transfer services, and tips for getting the best exchange rates.

Work & Labor

Understanding work permits, employee rights, social insurance, job search, and workplace harassment resources for foreign workers in Japan.

Leaving Japan

Everything you need to do before leaving Japan: moving-out notification, pension withdrawal, tax settlement, insurance cancellation, and utility cancellation.