Complete Guide to Residence Card Address Change Procedure in Japan

Introduction

If you have moved within Japan, you must complete the residence card address change procedure. Many people think that simply transferring their resident registration (住民票) is enough, but foreigners must also complete the residence card information update separately.

The residence card system is managed by the Immigration Services Agency of Japan, but address changes are handled at your local city hall or ward office — not at the immigration bureau.

1. When Must You Report the Address Change?

You must report the change within 14 days of moving.

The deadline is based on your actual move-in date — not the contract signing date or the date you moved out of your previous address.

2. Where Do You Go?

City hall (市役所) or ward office (区役所) of your new address.
There is no need to visit the immigration office for an address change.

3. Procedure

Moving Within the Same City / Ward

Visit your city hall or ward office.
Submit a change of address notification (転居届).
Present your residence card.
The new address will be written on the back of your residence card.

This is processed on the same day.

Moving to a Different City / Ward

Submit a move-out notification (転出届) at your old city hall.
Receive a move-out certificate (転出証明書).
Visit your new city hall or ward office.
Submit a move-in notification (転入届).
Present your residence card.
The new address will be updated on the back of your card.

This process requires two office visits — one at your old city hall and one at your new city hall.

4. Required Documents

Document	Required
Residence card	Always
Passport	Always
My Number card (if you have one)	Recommended
Move-out certificate	Only when moving to a different city/ward

Note: Each family member needs to bring their own residence card. One card cannot be used on behalf of another person.

5. Processing Time

Usually takes about 10 to 20 minutes.
During peak moving season (March–April), wait times may be significantly longer. Plan accordingly.

6. After Completing the Address Change

After the procedure is complete, make sure to:

Verify that the new address is correctly written on the back of your residence card.
Update your mailbox nameplate at your new residence with your name.
Check whether your tax and pension address updates automatically, or if you need to notify those offices separately.
Notify your company’s HR department of your new address.

7. What Happens If You Don’t Report the Change?

Failing to report your address change can result in serious consequences:

A fine of up to 200,000 yen.
Disadvantage when applying for Permanent Residency (PR) — failure to fulfill reporting obligations is viewed negatively.
Missing important tax notices sent to your old address.
Risk of pension payment arrears due to undelivered notices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I do this online?

No. You must visit the office in person. Online processing is not available for residence card address changes.

Can one family member handle everything for the whole household?

The head of household may be able to submit notifications for all family members together, but each person’s residence card must be presented. Make sure to bring all cards.

Can I report before I actually move in?

No. The address change can only be processed after you have actually moved into your new residence. You cannot report in advance.

Conclusion

Completing the address change on your residence card is a basic obligation for maintaining your residence status in Japan. Make sure to report the change within 14 days of your move to avoid penalties and ensure all your official records are up to date.