What is the first thing you should do when you come to Japan?

Let's take a look at some of the main difficulties in moving to and further living in Japan.

Migration brings about significant changes in the psychological state of the immigrant, including adjustment to a foreign country, a new lifestyle, culture shock, and new foods and lifestyles.

 Moving to another country is a serious psychological test for any person.

 Adaptation to a foreign country involves stages. In the first stage, one is filled with euphoria due to the execution of one's plan. Finally, all visas are accepted, a residence permit is issued, and the move is successful. Life is beautiful and wonderful. You can breathe out and relax. Nothing seems impossible anymore. But it will soon be gone.

Gradually, the joy of moving is replaced by frustration.

 It creates an understanding that immigrants are no longer tourists and that they have responsibilities as well as rights.

What are your responsibilities in Japan?

After obtaining your visa, you have decided where you will live in Japan. You may rent an apartment, share a room, or rent a house (ISOLATED HOUSE) as is.

A shopping list for living will be explained later. These are also necessary.

But there are more important things. There is the most important thing.

First, you must apply to city hall to find out where you live!

First you must go to City Hall.

If you wish to renew your period of stay, you will need to follow the legal process.

In Japan, all Japanese, including Japanese nationals, must have a "jyuuminnhyou (certificate of residence) = Certificate of Residence.

This proves that this person lives here. This also determines tax and social insurance based on this address.

In addition, having a certificate of residence allows one to receive various public services (public service).

Thus, to live comfortably in Japan, it is essential to first obtain a certificate of residence.

So how do you obtain a certificate of residence?

The place is a government office."

In Japan, it is mainly "Shiyakusho" (city hall). In Tokyo, it is "Kuyakusho" (ward office).

It is required to register as a resident within 14 days after the address is determined.

You will need your residence card and passport.

Here's what the residence permit looks like.

Once you have registered your address (and obtained a certificate of residence), ask for a copy of your certificate of residence. 

300 yen is required.

You can get a paper like the one on the right.

Since I don't usually use it, I keep it at home.

When necessary, bring a copy of the certificate of residence when a Japanese person asks you to bring it (copies can be made at a convenience store).