• Japanese
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Core Missions for a Smooth Start

• The City Hall　 Register your address and enroll in mandatory national systems. You must complete this within 14 days of moving in.
• Bank Account　 Set up your financial foundation for paying bills, receiving scholarships, and managing funds.

Step 1: Resident Registration

Core Task
You must register your address at your local city hall or ward office within 14 days of moving in.

Why it is important

• This officially establishes your residency in Japan.
• It's a prerequisite for all other services, including health insurance and banking.

Outcome
After registration, your address will be printed on the back of your Residence Card. This card is now your primary form of local ID.

Step 2: Understanding "My Number"

What it is
A unique 12-digit number assigned to every resident of Japan. This is different from your Residence Card Number.

The process

1. After you complete your resident registration, an "Individual Number Notice" (kojin-bango-tsuchisho) will be mailed to your address.
2. You can then use this notice to apply for a physical "My Number Card" (a plastic card with your photo).

Key Uses for the My Number Card

• Serves as a strong form of identification.
• Allows you to get official documents like a Certificate of Residence (jumin-hyo) from convenience store printers.
• Can be linked to your health insurance.

Step 3: National Health Insurance "Kokumin-Kenko-Hoken"

What it is
The Kokumin-Kenko-Hoken is a mandatory insurance system administered by local governments to reduce the burden of medical expenses for all residents.

Who must enroll?
All international students staying in Japan for three months or more are required to join. This includes any family members living with you.

The Key Benefit
Once enrolled, you will only pay 30% of your total medical and hospital fees.

Important Note on Premiums
A reduction system is available if your income (of previous year) is below a certain amount. Ask about this at the city hall center.

Receiving Your Card
An "Eligibility Confirmation Letter" (shikaku-kakuninn-sho) will be sent to your address via registered mail.
‼️You must receive this in person‼️
If you miss the delivery, use the notice left in your mailbox to arrange for redelivery.

Paying Premiums
Annual premiums are paid in 10 installments (from June to March). You will receive payments slips by mail. Pay at a bank, post office, or convenience store. You can also set up direct debit from a bank account.

Using Your Insurance
Always bring your Eligibility Confirmation Letter or My Number Card (if linked) when visiting a medical institution. OMU also has on-campus Healthcare Centers for consultations and first-aid.

Step 4: National Pension & Student Exemption

The Requirement
All residents in Japan aged 20 to 59, including international students, must enroll in the National Pension System (kokumin nenkin).
Outcome
A "Basic Pension Number Notice" (kiso-nenkin-bango-tsuchisho) will be mailed to you. Keep this document in safe place.
Student Solution: "Special Payment Exemption"
As a student with low or no income, you can apply to have your contributions deferred or fully exempted. This is a standard procedure for students. You must file the application at the city hall.
‼️Crucially, this application must be renewed every year‼️

Bank Account

How to Open a Savings Account (Futsu-Yokin-Koza) What You Will Need

• Your Residence Card (with your address printed on the back)
• Passport
• Student ID
• A Japanese phone number (often required)

The Process

• Typically, you will fill out the application form at the counter. If you're unsure about your Japanese, it's best to ask a tutor to accompany you.
• Most banks do not permit foreigners to open accounts until they have been residents for at least six months, but Japan Post does.
• At Japan Post Bank, you can prepare an application form in advance on their website. Print the application form and bring it to the counter to complete the procedure.

Credit Card
To obtain a credit card, you must pass the screening process of each credit card company. Since it is relatively difficult for international students immediately after arriving in Japan to apply for a credit card within Japan, it is smoother to bring a credit card issued in your home country.