Hello, this is Andy.
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What do you all think about the increase in the number of foreign residents in Japan?
◯ Summary
A residence card is essential for foreigners. Here’s how to apply for one and the required documents.
This time, on my 3rd application, I’m challenging a 5-year validity period.
I personally believe that Japan must expand the acceptance of foreign workers.
Even now, a significant share of essential work in Japan is carried out by people from overseas. In the coming 10 to 20 years, Japan will rapidly age, and the labor shortage in these essential roles will become even more severe.
That is why I believe expansion is necessary.
Now, my family members are foreigners. In order for foreigners to reside in Japan, they need to obtain a residence card.
We just submitted our 3rd application.
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1st application: When my family first entered Japan
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2nd application: Renewal of the first residence card
◯ Immigration Services Agency of Japan website
Office hours: 9:00–16:00 (Monday to Friday)
www.moj.go.jp
◯ Required documents for residence card application
① You can download the form from the Immigration Services Agency website.
Unless there is a special reason, the application must be submitted in person!”
② Photograph
You can get one for around 1,000 yen at a photo shop or in a photo booth at train stations.
③ Family Register (Koseki Tohon)
It’s convenient if you set up your My Number Card to allow you to obtain it at a convenience store.
Be aware that it takes about 5 days after the request is made at the convenience store before the document becomes valid for procedures.
You can also request it by mail from the city office where your permanent domicile is registered, but the procedure is rather old-fashioned.
How to request by mail from the city office:
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Application form for mailing request of family register (available at the city office)
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Copy of applicant’s ID
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Fixed amount postal money order for the fee (about 450 yen, available at post office)
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Two return envelopes with postage stamps
④ Taxation Certificate
Obtainable at convenience stores using your My Number Card, or at the city office.
④ Tax Payment Certificate
Obtainable at your local tax office.
④ Additional Supporting Documents
I submit a Certificate of Job Offer (Naitei-sho) as well.
A bank account balance certificate is also submitted together.
⑤ Letter of Guarantee
Downloadable from the Immigration Services Agency website.
⑥ Copy of Certificate of Residence (Juminhyo)
Obtainable at convenience stores with a My Number Card.
The cost is usually cheaper than getting it at the city office.
⑦ Passport
You will be required to leave it temporarily with the Immigration Services Agency.
⑧ Residence Card
You will also be required to leave your residence card with them.
Since you won’t have your residence card, don’t forget to carry another form of identification (driver’s license or My Number Card).
Once all documents are submitted, the review process usually takes about one month to complete.
Thank you very much for reading!
