Moving to Japan: Your Essential Arrival Guide

Deciding to immigrate to Japan, especially later in life, is a significant and exciting step. Whether you’re drawn by career opportunities, cultural immersion, a desire for a safe environment, or plans for retirement, Japan offers a unique experience. You’ve likely navigated the complex visa application process, secured your Certificate of Eligibility (CoE), and are now planning the final leap – the arrival itself.

This guide is specifically designed for those in their 40s, 50s, and 60s moving to Japan. We understand your priorities might include stability, healthcare access, and a smooth transition. While the overall immigration process is vast, this post focuses intently on the critical arrival procedures and the essential checklist for your first two weeks in Japan. Getting these initial steps right lays a solid foundation for your new life.

Before You Even Board the Plane: Pre-Arrival Essentials

While this guide focuses on arrival, a flawless arrival starts with solid preparation before you leave your home country. Let’s quickly recap the non-negotiables:

1. Visa and CoE Secured: You absolutely need your visa stamped in your passport and your original Certificate of Eligibility (CoE) in hand. These are typically checked thoroughly before boarding and upon arrival. Common visa types for your demographic might include Highly Skilled Professional (HSP), Business Manager, Spouse/Dependent of a Japanese National or Permanent Resident, or potentially certain Specified Skilled Worker categories.
2. Flights Booked: Self-explanatory, but ensure you know the baggage limits and requirements.
3. Initial Accommodation: Have at least temporary accommodation booked for your first few weeks (hotel, serviced apartment, Airbnb). Finding long-term housing often requires a Japanese bank account, phone number, and guarantor, which you won’t have immediately upon landing.
4. Finances: Ensure you have sufficient funds accessible. Bring some Japanese Yen in cash for immediate expenses (transport, food). Inform your home bank about your move to avoid blocked cards. Consider options like Wise (formerly TransferWise) or Revolut for managing international funds, but know that opening a Japanese bank account will be a priority.
5. Essential Documents: Pack these securely in your carry-on:
   • Passport with Japanese Visa
   • Original Certificate of Eligibility (CoE)
   • Flight itinerary
   • Proof of accommodation
   • Passport-sized photos (useful for various registrations)
   • International Driving Permit (if you plan to drive soon after arrival)
   • Important personal documents (birth/marriage certificates if relevant for dependents, translated if necessary).
   • Copies of everything (digital and physical).
6. Medications: If you take prescription medication, bring a sufficient supply (e.g., 1-3 months) along with the doctor’s prescription and potentially a Yakkan Shoumei (import certificate for certain medicines). Research Japan’s regulations on importing medication well in advance. Link: Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare – Medication Import Information
7. Basic Japanese Phrases: While not mandatory for arrival procedures (airport staff often have English skills), knowing basic greetings, numbers, and phrases like “Where is…?” will make your initial days much smoother and less stressful.

Touchdown Japan: Navigating Airport Procedures

You’ve landed! Take a deep breath. The process at major Japanese international airports (Narita, Haneda, Kansai, etc.) is generally efficient but systematic.

1. Disembarkation Card & Customs Form: You’ll likely receive these on the plane. Fill them out completely and accurately. Use the address of your initial accommodation in Japan.
2. Immigration Control: Follow the signs for “Foreign Passports.” Queue patiently. When called, present:
   • Your Passport (open to the visa page)
   • Your Certificate of Eligibility (CoE) – The immigration officer will take this.
   • Your completed Disembarkation Card.
   • You will be fingerprinted (both index fingers) and have your photo taken.
3. Receiving Your Residence Card (在留カード – Zairyu Card): This is arguably the most crucial step at the airport for mid- to long-term residents (stays over 3 months). At major airports (Narita, Haneda, Chubu, Kansai, New Chitose, Hiroshima, Fukuoka), your Residence Card will likely be issued right here after the immigration check.
   • What it is: The Zairyu Card is your official ID in Japan. You are legally required to carry it at all times.
   • Check it Carefully: Before leaving the counter, check that your Name, Date of Birth, Visa Status, and Period of Stay are printed correctly. Mistakes are easier to fix here than later.
   • Address: The back of the card will be blank initially. Your address will be added later at the local municipal office.
   • If not issued at the airport (less common now): The officer will stamp your passport indicating landing permission and that the card will be mailed later to your registered address. This means registering your address promptly is even more critical.
4. Baggage Claim: Collect your luggage.
5. Customs Declaration: Proceed to the customs counter. Hand over your completed Customs Declaration form. Officers may ask questions about your belongings or choose to inspect your luggage. Be honest and cooperative. Declare anything required (large amounts of cash, restricted items).
6. Entering the Arrivals Hall: Congratulations, you’ve officially entered Japan!

Post-Airport Immediate Steps:

• Get Cash: If you need more Yen, use an ATM in the arrivals hall. ATMs at 7-Eleven (Seven Bank) or Japan Post Bank are generally reliable with international cards. Currency exchange counters are also available but might have less favourable rates.
• Connectivity: Get a SIM card or pocket Wi-Fi device. Counters are readily available in the arrivals area. Having data connectivity immediately is invaluable for navigation (Google Maps is excellent in Japan), translation apps, and contacting your accommodation.
• Transportation: Decide how you’ll get to your accommodation. Options usually include:
  • Trains: Often the fastest and most cost-effective way to central city locations (e.g., Narita Express or Keisei Skyliner from Narita; Limousine Bus or Keikyu/Monorail from Haneda).
  • Airport Limousine Bus: Comfortable, direct service to major hotels and train stations. Good if you have lots of luggage.
  • Taxi: Most expensive option, but convenient for door-to-door service, especially if you have heavy bags or arrive late at night.

Your First 14 Days: The Critical Registration Checklist

Japanese law requires newly arrived mid- to long-term residents to complete several key registrations within 14 days of establishing residence (i.e., moving into your accommodation, even if temporary). This is primarily done at your local City Office or Ward Office (市役所 – Shiyakusho / 区役所 – Kuyakusho).

Finding Your Local Office: Search online for “[Your City/Ward Name] City Office” or “[Your City/Ward Name] Ward Office” (e.g., “Shinjuku Ward Office”). Their websites often have information in English.

What to Bring to the City/Ward Office:

• Your Passport
• Your Residence Card (Zairyu Card)
• Proof of your address (less commonly asked for, but good to have your rental agreement or hotel booking confirmation just in case)

The Checklist:

1. Register Your Address (住民登録 – Jūmin Tōroku)

• Why: This officially registers you as a resident of the municipality and is necessary for almost everything else (health insurance, banking, phone contracts).
• Where: The Residents’ Affairs or Citizen Registration section (often called 市民課 – Shimin-ka or 戸籍住民課 – Koseki Jūmin-ka) of your local City/Ward Office.
• Process: Fill out a “Notification of Moving-in” (転入届 – Tennyū Todoke) form. Staff may assist you. They will take your Residence Card and print your registered address on the back.
• Timing: Must be done within 14 days of moving into your address.
• Outcome: Your address is officially registered and printed on your Zairyu Card. You can now request copies of your Certificate of Residence (住民票 – Jūminhyō) if needed for other applications (usually costs a small fee).

2. Enroll in National Health Insurance (国民健康保険 – Kokumin Kenkō Hoken)

• Why: Unless covered by employee health insurance (Shakai Hoken) through a job starting immediately, all residents of Japan must enroll in the National Health Insurance scheme. This provides coverage for 70% of most medical costs. For those in their 40s-60s, robust health coverage is crucial.
• Where: Usually done at the same City/Ward Office, often in a dedicated Health Insurance section (保険年金課 – Hoken Nenkin-ka). You can often do this immediately after registering your address.
• Process: Inform the staff you wish to enroll. They will guide you through the application form.
• Premiums: Insurance premiums are typically calculated based on your previous year’s income in Japan. As a newcomer, your initial income is zero, so your first year’s premiums will likely be relatively low. You’ll receive payment slips by mail later.
• Outcome: You’ll receive your National Health Insurance card (健康保険証 – Kenkō Hokenshō), usually by mail within a week or two, though sometimes a temporary certificate is issued on the spot. Carry this card when visiting clinics or hospitals. [Link: Your Local City/Ward Office Website – Search for “National Health Insurance”] (You’ll need to search for the specific city you move to).

3. Enroll in the National Pension System (国民年金 – Kokumin Nenkin)

• Why: All registered residents aged 20 to 59 are legally required to enroll in the National Pension System. This is relevant for those under 60 in your target demographic. If you are 60 or older upon arrival, you are generally not required to enroll or pay into this basic national pension, but confirm this at the City/Ward office.
• Where: Often handled at the same counter or section as Health Insurance ( Hoken Nenkin-ka).
• Process: Enrollment is usually processed alongside address registration or health insurance. You’ll receive a blue pension book (年金手帳 – Nenkin Techō) or a Basic Pension Number Notice later by mail.
• Contributions: Similar to health insurance, you’ll receive payment slips. Contribution amounts are fixed per month. Exemptions or postponements are possible under certain conditions (e.g., low income), which you can inquire about at the office.
• Note for 60+: If you arrive aged 60 or over, clarify your status regarding the pension system. You won’t pay into it, but understanding any potential benefits based on totalization agreements with your home country (if applicable) is important. Link: Japan Pension Service

4. Open a Japanese Bank Account (銀行口座 – Ginkō Kōza)

• Why: Essential for receiving salary (if working), paying rent and utilities via automatic withdrawal, and general financial life in Japan.
• When: Technically possible after receiving your Residence Card with the address printed on the back. Some banks may require you to have been in Japan for 6 months, but policies vary.
• Challenges: Opening a bank account can sometimes be tricky for newcomers. Requirements differ between banks.
• Common Requirements:
  • Residence Card (with address registered)
  • Passport
  • Japanese Phone Number (often required)
  • Initial Deposit (usually small, like ¥1,000)
  • Hanko/Inkan (Personal Seal) – Sometimes required, sometimes a signature is acceptable. It’s wise to get a simple hanko made (can be done quickly and cheaply).
• Which Bank?
  • Japan Post Bank (ゆうちょ銀行 – Yūcho Ginkō): Often considered easier for foreigners to open an account initially. Found in most post offices.
  • Major Banks (MUFG, SMBC, Mizuho): Offer more services but might have stricter initial requirements.
  • Online/Newer Banks (Sony Bank, Rakuten Bank): May have English support but application processes vary.
• Tip: Go prepared. Visit the bank branch in person. If your Japanese is limited, bring a translator app or ask if English-speaking staff are available.

5. Get a Japanese Phone Number

• Why: Crucial for bank accounts, apartment rentals, job applications, and many online services in Japan.
• Options:
  • Major Carriers (Docomo, Softbank, AU): Offer full services, often require 2-year contracts, and may have stricter screening (might need a bank account or credit card first).
  • MVNOs (Mobile Virtual Network Operators): Companies like Rakuten Mobile, IIJmio, OCN Mobile One, etc., often offer cheaper, contract-free SIM cards (data-only or voice+data). Applications can often be done online or at electronic stores (Bic Camera, Yodobashi Camera), but may still require a Residence Card and sometimes a Japanese credit card or bank account.
• Timing: Do this after registering your address and ideally after opening a bank account, although some MVNOs might accept foreign credit cards initially.

Settling In: Beyond the First Two Weeks

Once the initial administrative hurdles are cleared, you can focus on settling into your new life:

• Long-Term Housing: If you started in temporary accommodation, now is the time to find an apartment or house. This often involves real estate agents, guarantors (or guarantor companies), key money, and deposits.
• Utilities: Setting up electricity, gas, and water for your long-term residence.
• Learn Local Rules: Understand garbage separation and collection schedules (very strict!), noise etiquette in apartments, etc.
• Healthcare: Find local clinics and hospitals. Learn how to use your health insurance card.
• Driving: If you plan to drive long-term, look into converting your International Driving Permit/home country license to a Japanese license (process varies by country). [Link: Information on Driving Licenses – Usually available via Prefectural Police websites]
• Connect: Join local community groups, expat networks (online or offline), pursue hobbies, and continue studying Japanese. Building a social network is key to feeling at home.

Special Considerations for the 40s-60s Demographic

Moving at this stage of life brings unique points to consider:

• Healthcare: While Japan’s system is excellent, understand its specifics. Consider supplemental private insurance if you desire private rooms or more extensive coverage beyond the standard 70%. Research doctors who speak your language if needed.
• Pensions & Retirement: Understand how your time contributing to the Japanese pension system might interact with your home country’s system. Japan has social security totalization agreements with several countries, which can prevent double contributions and allow combining periods of coverage. Research if your home country has such an agreement. Plan your retirement finances considering the cost of living in Japan.
• Family: If bringing dependents (spouse, children), ensure their visa processes are handled correctly. Understand schooling options if applicable.
• Career & Finance: Leverage your experience. Visas like the Highly Skilled Professional (HSP) reward points for experience, qualifications, and salary. If starting a business, the Business Manager visa requires significant planning and capital. Ensure your financial planning accounts for the Japanese cost of living and tax system.

Conclusion: Embrace the Journey

Immigrating to Japan and navigating the arrival procedures can seem daunting, but it’s a well-trodden path. Preparation is key. By tackling the initial registrations at the City/Ward Office promptly and systematically setting up your bank account and phone, you’ll quickly establish the essentials for your life in Japan.

This arrival phase is just the beginning. Challenges will arise, but the rewards of living in Japan – its unique culture, safety, efficiency, and beauty – are immense. Stay organized, be patient with the bureaucracy, don’t hesitate to ask for help (city offices often have some multilingual support), and most importantly, enjoy the start of your new adventure!

Welcome to Japan! (ようこそ日本へ！ – Yōkoso Nihon e!)