Moving to Japan
Complete guide to relocating: visa, housing, essentials, and your first month
Moving to Japan is one of the most exciting decisions you'll make. This guide covers everything from before you leave to settling into your new life. Whether you're coming for work, study, or a new adventure β we've got you covered.
Start preparing 2-3 months before your move:
Visa
Ensure your visa is approved and passport is valid for at least 6 months. Most work visas require a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from your employer.
Money
Bring enough cash for 2-3 months (Β₯300,000-500,000). ATMs accepting foreign cards are limited. Wise or Revolut cards work at 7-Eleven ATMs.
Documents
Bring original copies: degree certificates, employment contract, passport photos (4x3cm), birth certificate if needed. Get apostilles where required.
Phone
Unlock your phone before leaving. Consider getting a Japan eSIM or pocket WiFi for the first few weeks.
Your first week priorities in order:
Residence Card
You'll receive this at the airport if you have a work/study visa. It's your most important document β carry it always.
City Hall Registration
Register at your local ward office within 14 days. You'll need: residence card, passport, and your address. This triggers health insurance and pension enrollment.
Bank Account
Apply at Japan Post Bank (γγγ‘γ) or Shinsei Bank β they're foreigner-friendly. Bring: residence card, passport, phone number, seal (hanko) or signature.
Phone Number
Get a Japanese SIM. Ahamo, Povo, and Rakuten Mobile work without a Japanese credit card. You need this for almost everything.
Once basics are done, tackle these:
My Number Card
Apply at city hall. Takes 1-2 months to arrive. Useful for taxes, some banking, and official procedures.
Health Insurance
If employed, your company handles this. Otherwise, enroll in National Health Insurance at city hall. Costs ~Β₯15,000-30,000/month.
Pension
Mandatory for residents. Your employer deducts it automatically. Self-employed pay at city hall (~Β₯16,000/month).
Utilities
Electricity, gas, water are usually set up by your landlord. You just need to call or visit to transfer the name.
- β’Always carry your residence card β it's legally required
- β’Learn to read katakana first β most loan words become readable
- β’Get a Suica/PASMO card for trains immediately
- β’Convenience stores (konbini) are your best friend for bills, ATMs, and food
- β’Join local Facebook/Reddit expat groups for advice and connections
- β’Download Google Translate with offline Japanese for emergencies
Next Steps
Now that you're set up, explore our other guides: