How to Apply for My Number Card & Where Foreigners Can Use It

My Number Card (Maina Namba Ka-do) is available to all residents in Japan, including foreigners. Since 2024, it can also be used as a health insurance card.

① How to Apply

1. Receive Individual Number Notification from your municipality
2. Apply via smartphone, PC, mail, or photo booth
3. Receive pickup notice (~1 month later)
4. Pick up in person at city hall

② Documents for Pickup

• Pickup notice card
• Two forms of ID (Residence Card + Passport)

③ Where Foreigners Can Use It

• Get certificates at convenience stores
• Online tax filing (e-Tax)
• Health insurance card

Eligibility for Foreign Residents

Mid- to long-term residents with a registered address in Japan (such as those holding a Residence Card) are eligible to apply for a My Number Card. Short-term visitors are not eligible. Note that the card's expiry date is tied to your residence period.

Update Your Card After Renewing Your Residence Status (Important)

If your residence period is extended after renewing your Status of Residence, you must visit your municipal office to update the expiry date on your My Number Card. Forgetting this step may cause the card to become invalid, so please handle it promptly.

Using It as a Health Insurance Card (Registration Required)

To use your My Number Card as a health insurance card (Myna Hoken-sho), you need to complete a usage registration. You can register via the Myna Portal, compatible terminals, or the face-recognition card readers at medical institutions and pharmacies. For details, see How to Use Myna Insurance Card.

If You Lose Your PIN or Notification Letter

Your PIN is set when you receive the card. If you forget it, you can reset it at your municipal office. If you lose the notification letter (with QR code) used for application, there are ways to apply using your application ID — please consult your city hall. Also check Resident Registration for related procedures.

FAQ

Q Can foreigners apply for a My Number Card?
Mid- to long-term residents with a registered address in Japan (such as those holding a Residence Card) can apply. Short-term visitors are not eligible.

Q What should I do after renewing my residence status?
If your residence period is extended, you need to visit your municipal office to update the expiry date on your My Number Card. Failing to do so may cause the card to expire.

Q How do I use my My Number Card as a health insurance card?
Registration is required. You can register via the Myna Portal or the face-recognition card readers at medical institutions and pharmacies.

Q What if I forget my PIN?
You can reset your PIN at your municipal office. Bring your ID documents and consult the counter of the city hall where you reside.