Residence Card (Zairyu Card) in Japan

09/15/2025

The Residence Card, known as the Zairyu Card, is a vital document for all foreign residents in Japan.

It proves your legal status, your visa type, and your period of stay.

Without it, you cannot rent housing, open a bank account, or even obtain a mobile phone contract.

Contents

Residence Card Overview

The Zairyu Card is an official residence permit issued to foreigners staying in Japan for more than 90 days.

It acts as proof of residence status and must be carried at all times.

Understanding its role is key to living in Japan without legal troubles.

Legal Definition of Residence Card

The Residence Card is issued under Japan’s Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Act.

It contains information such as your status of residence, period of stay, date of birth, and work eligibility.

By law, all foreign residents must carry this card with them whenever they go out.

Who Needs a Zairyu Card in Japan

Not every foreigner needs a Residence Card.

Tourists and short-term visitors (stays under 90 days) are exempt.

However, students, workers, dependents, and long-term residents must have one issued by Japanese immigration.

Residence Card Application and Issuance Process

Renewing your Residence Card and updating its information are essential to maintain legal residency in Japan.

There are two separate types of renewal: one for your period of stay (visa extension) and one for the card’s own validity period (mainly for Permanent Residents and certain long-term statuses).

Understanding the difference prevents confusion and helps you apply on time.

Extension of Period of Stay

Extending your period of stay refers to renewing your immigration status itself, which allows you to remain in Japan beyond the current expiry date.

This procedure applies to most residents, such as students and workers, whose stay is limited by a set visa period.

You can apply for an extension from 3 months before the expiration date if your current period is 6 months or longer.
Applications are submitted at a regional immigration office.
As of April 1, 2025, the government revised the application fees:
- In-person filing: JPY 6,000
- Online application: JPY 5,500

Processing Time and Result

Applications usually take 2–4 weeks.

If the decision is still pending after your visa expiry, you may remain legally in Japan for up to 2 months or until a result is issued, whichever comes first.

Renewal of the Residence Card Validity

This procedure applies mainly to Permanent Residents and certain Highly Skilled Professional (ii) holders, whose Residence Card itself has a validity limit separate from their status.

The card must be renewed even though your right to stay does not expire.

You must apply for renewal within 2 months before the card’s expiration date.
For residents under 16, the renewal window is within 6 months before the card expires.
For Permanent Residents aged 16 or older, the Residence Card validity is 7 years.

Required Documents

Current Residence Card
Passport
Application form (available at immigration)
ID photo (4cm × 3cm, plain background)

Updating Residence Card Information

Apart from renewals, changes in your personal situation must be updated on the Residence Card.

This ensures that your card reflects your current status and prevents legal issues.

Address changes must be reported within 14 days at your municipal office.
Other changes (name, nationality, employer, marital status) must be reported to a regional immigration office within 14 days.
Failure to report may result in fines of up to JPY 200,000.

Lost or Damaged Residence Card

If your Residence Card is lost, stolen, or destroyed, you must request a reissue.

Without it, you cannot prove your legal stay in Japan, which may cause significant difficulties.

Steps after losing your Residence Card:

Report the loss at the nearest police station and obtain a loss report.
Apply for a replacement at your local immigration office within 14 days.
Bring your passport, police report, and a new application form.

Residence Card Renewal and Changes

The Residence Card must be renewed before its expiration date.

Additionally, any changes in your personal details, workplace, or address must be updated promptly.

Ignoring these requirements can lead to fines or legal issues.

Residence Card Renewal Process

Renewal is required when your residence period ends.

Applications can be made from two to three months before expiry at regional immigration offices.

As of April 1, 2025, renewal fees and related immigration service charges were revised, so applicants should confirm the latest cost with the Immigration Services Agency.

Processing usually takes two to four weeks, after which a new card is issued.

Updating Residence Card Information

If you move to a new address, change jobs, or update personal information such as name or nationality, you must report the change within 14 days.

Address changes are submitted at your local city hall, while other updates are made at immigration offices.

Failing to update your card can result in penalties or issues with employment and housing.

Lost or Damaged Residence Card

Losing your Residence Card can cause severe difficulties, as you cannot prove your legal stay.

A reissue request must be filed quickly.

Steps after losing your Residence Card:

Report the loss at the nearest police station and obtain a “lost property report.”
Visit your local immigration office within 14 days to apply for reissuance.
Bring your passport, police report, and replacement application form.

Residence Card Daily Use and Importance

The Zairyu Card is not just a visa.

It is your daily identification.

It is essential for opening bank accounts, signing housing contracts, and verifying your identity in official procedures.

Carrying it at all times is legally mandatory.

Using Residence Card as Identification

Banks, post offices, mobile carriers, and government offices accept the Zairyu Card as official ID.

For foreign residents, it is the most reliable form of identification.

Unlike a passport, it is designed to be carried daily.

Residence Card and Employment in Japan

Employers are legally required to confirm employees’ eligibility to work.

The Residence Card shows your visa category and whether you are permitted to work.

For example, “Student” visas allow limited part-time jobs, while “Engineer” visas permit full-time work.

Residence Card and Housing Contracts

Real estate agencies and landlords require a valid Residence Card before finalizing contracts.

It reassures them that you are legally allowed to stay and fulfill payment obligations.

Expired or invalid cards may result in rejected housing applications.

FAQ About Residence Card in Japan

Foreign residents often encounter practical questions regarding the Zairyu Card.

Here are the most common, answered concisely.

Do tourists need a Residence Card in Japan?: No, only residents staying more than 90 days require a Residence Card.
Can you travel domestically without a Residence Card?: Yes, but you must carry it at all times since police may request to see it.
What happens if you forget your Residence Card?: You may face fines if stopped by authorities, so always carry it.
Can I use a photocopy of my Residence Card?: No, only the original card is valid for legal and administrative use.
Where should I update my address on the Residence Card?: You must report it at your city hall within 14 days of moving.