Residence Card (在留カード) Guide for Foreigners in Japan [2026]

The Residence Card (在留カード, zairyu kaado) is the official ID card issued to mid-to-long-term foreign residents in Japan. You must carry it at all times and present it on request. It's required for bank accounts, apartment rentals, city hall procedures, and much more. Here's how to read it and manage key procedures.

① Information on the Residence Card

② Obligation to carry

Foreign residents aged 16+ who have mid-to-long-term status must carry the Residence Card at all times and present it when requested by police or immigration officers. Failure may result in a fine of up to ¥200,000 (Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act, Article 23).

③ Updating your address

After moving, submit a move-in registration (転入届) at your new city hall within 14 days. The address on the back of your Residence Card will be updated at the same counter.

• Bring: Residence Card + ID
• Where: City hall (resident registration counter) at your new address
• Time: ~15–30 minutes

④ Renewing your Residence Card

You can apply to renew your status of residence starting 3 months before expiry. Apply at the Regional Immigration Services Bureau that covers your address.

⑤ Replacement after loss, theft, or damage

If your Residence Card is lost or stolen, apply for a replacement at the Immigration Bureau within 14 days.

• If stolen: File a police report first and attach the theft certificate
• If damaged: Bring the damaged card
• Required documents: Application form, photo (4cm×3cm), passport, (theft) police report

⑥ Anti-counterfeit features

The Residence Card has multiple anti-counterfeiting features: a hologram (rainbow shimmer when tilted), an IC chip (biometric and other data), laser engraving (photo and name), and composite material. Possessing or using a counterfeit card is a serious crime.

FAQ

Where do I update my address on the Residence Card?At your new city hall's resident registration counter, when you submit your move-in registration (転入届). The staff update the address on the back of your card at the same time. Required within 14 days of moving.

What should I do if I lose my Residence Card?If stolen, file a police report first. Then within 14 days, apply for a replacement at your regional Immigration Bureau with the application form, photo, passport, and (if stolen) the police report.

When can I apply to renew my Residence Card?From 3 months before your period of stay expires. Apply at the regional Immigration Bureau that covers your registered address.

Do I have to carry my Residence Card at all times?Yes. Foreign residents aged 16+ with mid-to-long-term status are legally required to carry it and show it to police or immigration officers when requested.

How do I check if I'm allowed to work?Look at the 'Work restrictions' (就労制限の有無) field on the front of the card. 'No restrictions' means you can generally work freely. 'Only activities within the status' means only jobs within your visa category.