After arriving in Japan, how and where do I receive my Residence Card (Zairyu Card)?

Residence CardImmigration ProceduresLife in JapanForeigner RegistrationAirport ProceduresRelocating to Japan
Created At: 8/11/2025Updated At: 8/17/2025
Answer (1)

Hey, welcome to Japan! Landing can be a bit hectic, but don't worry, I'll walk you through the residence card process. It's actually quite simple.

Most Common Scenario: Pick Up Directly at the Airport

This is by far the most common and convenient way. If you're entering through one of these major international airports, congratulations, you can get your residence card directly during immigration inspection.

  • Narita Airport (NRT)
  • Haneda Airport (HND)
  • Kansai International Airport (KIX)
  • Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO)
  • New Chitose Airport (CTS)
  • Hiroshima Airport (HIJ)
  • Fukuoka Airport (FUK)

Here's the process:

  1. After disembarking, follow the signs for "Arrivals & Immigration" (到着・入国審査).
  2. At the immigration counter, hand your passport and the original "Certificate of Eligibility" (COE) to the officer.
    • This COE is the yellow paper you used for your visa application. It's crucial – bring the original!
  3. The officer will verify your information and then have you provide fingerprints and take a photo. This photo will be used directly on your residence card.
  4. Once approved, the officer will produce your residence card on the spot and hand it to you along with your passport, which will have a "Landing Permission" sticker affixed.

After receiving the card, don't just pocket it and leave! Be sure to immediately check the information on the card, especially your name spelling (in Roman characters), date of birth, and status of residence (e.g., "Technical/Humanities/International Services" or "Student") for any errors. If you find a mistake, inform the staff right away!

Special Case: What if you don't get it at the airport?

If you enter through a smaller airport not listed above, or for some other special reason (like a system issue) you don't receive the card at the airport, don't panic.

In this case, the immigration officer will stamp your passport with a "在留カード後日交付" (Residence Card to be Issued Later) stamp.

What you need to do:

  1. First, go to your place of residence.
  2. Within 14 days of determining your address, take your passport to your local city/ward office (市/区役所) to register your address ("Resident Registration" / 住民登録).
  3. After completing the registration, the Immigration Services Agency will mail your residence card to you via registered mail (書留郵便) at the address you registered. This process usually takes about 1-2 weeks.

So, even if you don't get it at the airport, it's just a slightly more involved process and a bit of a wait – not a major problem.

The Most Important Step After Getting Your Card!

Whether you received your card at the airport or later by mail, the following step is mandatory for everyone and is required by law!

Within 14 days of determining your address, you MUST register your address at your local city/ward office!

  • What to bring? Your residence card and passport.
  • What happens? Fill out a "Notification of Moving" (住民異動届) form. Staff will then print your address on the back of your residence card.

Residence card with address printed on the back (Image Source: Immigration Services Agency of Japan)

Registering this address means you are officially "settled" in Japan. You'll need this card with the printed address for things like getting a mobile phone, opening a bank account, and enrolling in National Health Insurance.

Quick Summary

  1. Entering via major airport: Receive card on the spot during immigration.
  2. Entering via smaller airport: Go to your residence, register your address at the ward office; card will be mailed to you.
  3. Within 14 days of getting the card: Must register your address at the ward/city office to have it printed on the back of the card.

A Few Tips (From Experience)

  • Carry it with you: Japanese law requires foreigners aged 16 and over to carry their residence card at all times. You must present it if requested by police. So, keep it with your wallet and keys.
  • Make a copy: Once you have the card, it's a good idea to photocopy or take photos of both sides as a backup, in case you need to replace it if lost.
  • Don't lose the COE: Keep your passport and the original COE safe during your flight and before landing – they are essential for receiving your residence card at the airport.

Hope this information helps! Wishing you all the best for your life in Japan!

Created At: 08-11 12:18:15Updated At: 08-12 02:22:52