Obtaining a Residence Certificate (住民票, Juminhyo) in Japan is a straightforward process that involves visiting your local municipal office. The Juminhyo serves as an official document that verifies your address and residency status in Japan and is often required for various administrative procedures such as opening a bank account, enrolling in schools, applying for visas, and more.
Below is a step-by-step guide on how to obtain a Juminhyo:
Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining a Juminhyo
1. Determine Your Eligibility
- Who Can Apply:
- Japanese Nationals: Any Japanese citizen registered at a specific address.
- Foreign Residents: Individuals with a valid residence status who have registered their address at the local municipal office.
- Third-Party Requests:
- In some cases, a proxy can apply on your behalf with proper authorization and identification documents.
2. Prepare Required Documents
Before visiting the municipal office, ensure you have the following documents prepared:
- Identification Documents:
- For Japanese Nationals: A valid photo ID such as a driver’s license, passport, or My Number Card (Individual Number Card).
- For Foreign Residents: A valid Residence Card (在留カード) or Special Permanent Resident Certificate (特別永住者証明書).
- Application Form:
- Available at the municipal office or downloadable from the municipality’s official website. Some offices may provide multilingual forms; however, forms are typically in Japanese.
- Proxy Documents (if applicable):
- Letter of Authorization: If someone is applying on your behalf.
- Proxy’s Identification: Valid photo ID of the person acting as your proxy.
3. Visit Your Local Municipal Office
- Locate the Appropriate Office:
- Go to the City Hall (市役所, Shiyakusho) or Ward Office (区役所, Kuyakusho) corresponding to your registered address.
- Office hours are typically Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, excluding national holidays. Some offices offer extended hours or weekend services; check your local office’s schedule.
- Proceed to the Appropriate Counter:
- Look for signage indicating “住民票” or ask the information desk for directions to the residence certificate counter.
4. Fill Out and Submit the Application
- Complete the Application Form:
- Provide necessary details such as your name, address, date of birth, and purpose for obtaining the Juminhyo.
- Specify if you need additional information included, such as your My Number, Nationality, or Resident Status (for foreign residents). Note that including sensitive information may require additional verification.
- Submit the Application:
- Hand over the completed form along with your identification documents to the staff at the counter.
5. Pay the Required Fee
- Standard Fee:
- The fee varies by municipality but is generally around ¥300 to ¥500 per copy.
- Payment Methods:
- Cash is commonly accepted. Some offices may accept electronic payments or credit cards.
6. Receive Your Juminhyo
- Processing Time:
- The issuance is typically immediate and should take only a few minutes after submission.
- Verify the Information:
- Before leaving, ensure all the details on the Juminhyo are correct and match your records.
Alternative Methods to Obtain a Juminhyo
**1. Convenience Stores (コンビニ交付)
- Eligibility:
- Requires a My Number Card with an active electronic certificate.
- Participating Stores:
- Major convenience stores like 7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart, etc.
- Procedure:
- Use the multi-function copy machine available in the store.
- Follow on-screen instructions, insert your My Number Card, and select the required document.
- Availability:
- Usually available 6:30 AM to 11:00 PM, including weekends and holidays.
- Fee:
- Often slightly cheaper than obtaining it at the municipal office, around ¥200 to ¥350.
**2. Online Request via Mynaportal
- Eligibility:
- Must possess a My Number Card and a compatible card reader or NFC-enabled smartphone.
- Procedure:
- Access the Mynaportal website.
- Authenticate using your My Number Card.
- Fill out the online application and specify delivery method (digital download or mail).
- Processing Time:
- Digital copies can be available immediately; physical copies will be mailed and may take a few days.
- Fee:
- Similar to in-person applications; payment methods vary and may include online payment options.
**3. Postal Request
- Procedure:
- Send a written request along with copies of identification documents and a self-addressed stamped envelope to your municipal office.
- Include payment via postal money order (定額小為替).
- Processing Time:
- May take several days to a week, depending on postal service and processing times.
- Considerations:
- Check with your local municipal office for specific instructions and required forms.