A residency registration system for foreign nationals in Japan has been put into effect as of July 9th 2012.

●Instead of the old Certificate of Alien Registration, a new "Residence Card" is issued to mid-to-long term residents, and a "Special Permanent Residence Certificate" to permanent residents.
The old Certificate of Alien Registration will be accepted in lieu of the new Residence Card and Special Permanent Residence Certificate for a limited transition period.

●The new Residence Cards are issued to foreign nationals in much the same way as Japanese nationals are issued with Citizen Cards. In cases where Japanese and non-Japanese nationals reside in the same family unit a new copy of the Citizen Card will now be issued listing all residents together.

●When moving to a new location, it will be necessary to notify your current local municipal office with details of your new address in advance in order to receive proof of your notification of your change of address. This must then be presented to the local municipal office in your new town or city along with your Residence Card or Special Permanent Residence Certificate after moving.
(It will also be necessary to notify your municipal office before permanent leaving Japan or when planning a long stay overseas).
A Resident Registration System for Foreign Residents has started since July 9, 2012.

Check it out ↓
http://www.soumu.go.jp/main_sosiki/jichi_gyousei/c-gyousei/zairyu.html

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