It's a prerogative to inform the city hall whenever you change your home address in Japan. This is a Japanese law we have to abide and it applies to every citizen- local or foreigner.
Why do we register our new address every time we move houses in Japan?
Moving-in & Change of address notification (also updates residence card)
Same as moving-out notification, all non-Japanese residents are required to file a moving-in notification or change of address notification to your municipal office when moving in a new municipality or within the same municipality. The form of moving-out notification slightly vary by each municipality, but most of municipal offices provide “notification of move” form at the counter. It must be lodged within 14days after moving date. Don’t forget to notify the change of address, because foreign residents may be fined up to JPY200,000, or have their status of residence revoked if they fail to file this notification by due date. Unlike moving-out notification, a moving-out and change of address notification must be filed in person. Your residence card will be automatically updated if you hand in your card at a municipal office with a moving-in or change of address notification.
It can be time-consuming but it's an inevitable rule. I hope this guide can help you narrow down the process. Let's begin:
Step 1:
Go to your local city hall where you are currently living and fill up a form called "住民異動届＝ juumin-idou-todoke". Input all the important information as follows:
This is a sample format for your reference but the form may vary depending on the ward/city but generally the needed details are often the same.
In big cities like Shinjuku, you may find an English application form but for the most part (especially in the country side they may only have japanese forms).
Step 2:
After filling up the form, submit it to the staff in charge and you will be given a priority number so you have to wait for your number to be called. You also have to bring your residence card (zairyuu card) , my number card and insurance card. You will have to surrender your insurance card.
Step 3:
After verification, you will be given a certification paper. Please bring it with you to the new city hall of the place where you plan to transfer to.
Step 4:
When you are in the city hall (new one) you will be asked to fill-up another form as well. Again, you will be given a priority number and you have to wait for your turn. You also need to present your residence card (zairyuu card) and my number card because they will update your address in both those cards. You will also be issued with a new insurance card as well.
Step 5:
And you're done! P.S. It will be best to request for a copy of 住民票 = certificate of residence for multiple purposes. It could be requested by your employer if you are looking for a job, so since you are already in the city hall, might as well get it beforehand to save yourself another trip. Though you have to pay 300¥ per copy.
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