My Number Card: Complete Guide to Getting Yours in Japan

The My Number Card is an essential moving for anyone residing in Japan. It serves multiple purposes, including tax management, social security, and identification. With the government towards a more digitized society, getting your My Number card (マイナンバーカード）is becoming increasingly important, especially with the integration of various services like health insurance. This guide will walk you through the steps of obtaining

Why Do You Need a My Number Card?

Before diving into the application process, let’s understand why the its needed

• Identification : It can serve as a photo ID for various legal purposes.
• Taxation : The card helps manage taxes, linking you to the system for proper records.
• Social Security : It connects you to pension plans and health insurance programs.
• Online Services : You can use the card for e-Government services, such as filing taxes online and accessing other governmental services digitally.

Step-by-Step Guide in applying

1. Receiving the Notification Card

When you first arrive in Japan and register your address at your local city hall, you will be automatically issued a My Number Notification Card . This is a paper card that has your unique 12-digit My Number printed on it. This number is essential for taxes, social security, and other public services.

The notification card is usually mailed to you within a few weeks of your address registration.

• Kanji to Look For:
  • Notification Card (通知カード)
  • Individual Number (個人番号) – Individual Number
  • Residence Certificate (住民票) – Residence Certificate (This is also a document you may need during the application process)

2. Gather the Required Documents

When applying for a my number card the following are required

• My Number Notification Card (or the notice postcard from the government).
• Residence Card (Zairyu Card) for identification.
• Passport or another valid form of ID (such as a driver’s license) if needed for additional verification.
• A recent photograph : This should be 4.5 cm x 3.5 cm, taken within the last 6 months. The photo should have a plain background, showing your face clearly, with no headwear unless for religious reasons.

3. Applying for the My Number Card

There are two main ways to apply: by mail or online . Choose whichever method is more convenient for you.

Option 1: Apply by Mail

1. Fill out the application form : Along with your notification card, you will receive an application form (application form, Shinseisho). Fill out your details in this form.
2. Attach your photograph : Make sure your photograph meets the size and quality specifications and attach it to the form.
3. Mail the form : Once the form is completed and your photograph is attached, mail it to the address provided on the form (the envelope should be included with your notification card). You won’t need to pay for postage.

Option 2: Apply Online

1. Scan the QR code : On your notification card or the postcard from the city hall, you will find a QR code. This will lead you to the online application system.
2. Upload your photograph : Follow the instructions on the website to upload a recent photo.
3. Complete the online form : Fill out your personal details and submit the form electronically.

4.Waiting for the Issuance

After your application is processed, you will receive a notification postcard informing you that your My Number card is ready for pickup. This process typically takes 3-4 weeks , but it could vary depending on where you live.

5.Pick Up Your card

Once you receive the notification postcard, you will need to go in person to the designated city office (City Hall, Shiyakusho) or ward office to collect it. The card will not be mailed to you for security reasons.

• Required Documents for Pickup :
  • Notification postcard .
  • My Number Notification Card .
  • Residence Card (Zairyu Card) for identification.
  • A personal seal (hanko) if you use one (although it may not be required in all municipalities).
• Kanji to Look For at the City Hall :
  • City Office–市役所
  • Ward Office–区役所
  • My Number–マイナンバー
  • Identity Check– 本人確認

At the office, they will verify your identity, and you will be asked to set a 4-digit PIN for the card. This PIN is required for future services, such as using your My Number card for online government procedures.

What to Do If You Lose Your My Number Card

If you lose your My Number card, report it immediately. You can do this by:

1. Theft and lost Hotline : 0120-95-0178.
2. Visiting your local city or ward office to apply for a reissue of the card.

Losing the card doesn’t mean someone else can access your information, but it’s always better to act quickly to prevent misuse.

How to Use Your My Number Card

Once you have your My Number card, you can start using it for:

• Identification purposes : It serves as a valid ID card for various services, such as opening bank accounts or signing contracts.
• Accessing public services : You can use the card for tax filings, social security, and health insurance services.
• Health insurance integration : The My Number card can be used in place of your health insurance card

Future Uses of the My Number Card

The Japanese government is expanding the functionalities of the My Number card. Soon, it will be possible to:

• Use it as a driver’s license: Discussions are underway to integrate the driver’s license with the My Number card.
• Digital government services: Japan is moving towards offering more e-government services, and your My Number card will be essential for accessing them.

FAQs About the My Number Card

Conclusion

Obtaining your My Number card is an important step in getting settled in Japan. Whether you are new to the country or have been here for a while, having the card simplifies many administrative tasks, including tax filings, social security registration, and more. By following this guide, you can easily navigate the application process and enjoy the benefits of having your My Number card.

Don’t wait—apply for your My Number card today and stay ahead of the game in managing your life in Japan! for more info “my number info center“