What it is: The foundation of your legal residence in Japan. Your resident registration (住民票) is an official record of where you live.

What you can do:

• Register your address when you move (転入届)
• Notify when you move out (転出届)
• Update your address if you move within the same municipality (転居届)
• Obtain copies of your resident certificate (住民票)
• Register your family relationships (戸籍)

Required documents: Residence card, passport, proof of new address

Processing time: Same day (usually 5-15 minutes)

What it is: Health insurance is mandatory in Japan. The ward office handles enrollment in the National Health Insurance (国民健康保険) for self-employed individuals and those not covered by employer insurance.

Coverage includes:

• Doctor visits and medical treatment
• Hospital stays
• Prescription medications
• Dental and vision care (partial)
• Preventive health screenings

Cost: Monthly premiums based on income (approximately ¥3,000-10,000 per month)

Processing time: Same day enrollment

What it is: The National Pension (国民年金) is a mandatory retirement savings program for all residents aged 20-60.

Key points:

• Monthly contribution: ¥16,980 (2024)
• Automatic enrollment required
• Payment plans available
• Exemptions available for low-income individuals
• Retirement benefits start at age 65

Who must enroll: All residents aged 20-60, including foreign nationals on long-term visas

Processing time: Same day enrollment

What it is: Resident tax (住民税) is a local tax based on your income from the previous year.

Tax types:

• Resident tax (住民税) - approximately 10% of income
• Inhabitant tax - fixed amount per person
• Property tax (if applicable)

Payment methods:

• Automatic deduction from salary (preferred)
• Four quarterly payments
• Lump sum payment

Services available: Tax certificates, payment arrangements, deduction inquiries

What it is: Japan provides various support programs for families with children.

Main programs:

• Child Allowance (児童手当) - ¥10,000-15,000 per child per month
• Childcare support and subsidies
• School enrollment assistance
• Medical expense coverage for children
• Maternity and paternity benefits

Eligibility: Families with children under 15 years old

Application: Must apply at ward office within 15 days of birth or moving

Always bring: Residence card, passport, and personal seal (hanko). For specific services, additional documents may be required. Call ahead to confirm what you need.

Yes. Many ward offices have English-speaking staff or can arrange interpreters. Call ahead to request interpretation services for complex matters.

Most services are completed on the same day (5-30 minutes). Some applications may take 1-2 weeks. Ask the staff for an estimated completion time.

Standard hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM. Some offices have extended hours until 7:00 PM on specific days. Closed weekends and national holidays. Check your local ward office website for exact hours.

Most services are first-come, first-served. You take a number upon arrival. However, for complex matters or interpreter requests, calling ahead is recommended.