After Arrival
Phase 2 of 2
Arrival at Airport
2~3 hours
Here's what to expect at the airport to officially begin your life here.
Finding Your New Home
~14 days
Finding a new place can feel overwhelming, but let's break it down step by step.
Search online (e.g., SUUMO for apartments, oakhouse for shared houses) or visit local agencies
Make sure they accept foreigners
Residence card
Phone number
Emergency contact in Japan
Bank account information
Your employer's phone number
Review term length and early-termination penalties
Pay agreed fees and sign
Buy new furniture: Nitori, IKEA, Yamada Denki
Buy second-hand: Mercari, Second Street
City Hall Paperwork
3~4 hours
Complete within 2 weeks of moving to your Japanese address.
Make sure you have your new address
Bring your Residence Card and passport
Keep the 12-digit number that you receive 2-3 weeks later
Apply for the My Number Card online, after receiving Your Individual Number Notice
Opening a Bank Account
setup 1~2 hours, card in 1~2 weeks
Open your bank account after registering your address. Confirm if employer requires a specific bank.
Residence Card (with registered address)
Your Katakana name
Getting a Phone Number
1~3 hours
Having a Japanese phone number (voice plan) is essential.
Residence Card (with registered address)
Bank account information
Navigating Daily Life
ongoing
Important tips for a smoother daily life in Japan.