If you’re living or working in Japan, you probably heard about the Individual Number. It’s one of the most important documents in Japan, comparable to a social security number, that you’ll need while living and working in Japan. For this reasion, in this guide, we’ll take a closer look at the My Number Card (Individual Number Card), explaining what it is, what it can be used for, why you should consider getting one, and how to apply for it.
Index
- What is the My Number Card?
- What Can It Be Used For?
- How Can I Apply for a My Number Card?
- Application Methods
- Conclusion
What is the My Number Card?
The My Number Card, “マイナンバーカード” (Mainanbā Kādo) is a card containing your Individual Number (kojin bango / 個人番号) that can be used for several government and private services.
Do I have an Individual Number?
If you have registered yourself/address in your local City Hall, then yes.
Every registered resident in Japan receives an Individual Number Notice containing your 12-digit number by mail that looks like this:
After receiving this Individual Number Notice, if you don’t make a My Number Card, you should receive a green card by mail in the Notification Card letter, with your 12-digit number as well.
However, If you didn’t receive this due to changing address or maybe threw it away not knowing what it was, don’t worry. You can visit your local City Hall/Municipality to request your Individual Number or your My Number Card.
What is the difference between the Individual Number and the My Number Card?
They are essentially the same thing. However, the Individual Number is only a 12-digit number that is used by the government for taxation, social security, and disaster response purposes. On the other hand, the My Number Card is the same 12-digit number in a physical form that can work as a key to several government and private services.
What Can the My Number Card Be Used For?
The My Number Card is your ticket to unlocking a wide array of services and benefits in Japan, such as:
- Taxation: Easily file your taxes, claim deductions, and receive refunds.
- Social Services: Access social welfare and pension benefits.
- Healthcare: Use it for health insurance and medical services.
- Banking: Open a bank account, apply for loans, and manage financial transactions.
- Government Services: Conduct various administrative tasks efficiently, such as obtaining official documents or permits.
- Online Authentication: Use it to verify your identity online for government and private services.
An example would be getting your proof of residency in a Konbini using your My Number Card instead of going all the way to your City Hall and waiting in line for the document.
In essence, the My Number Card simplifies your daily life by reducing the need to carry multiple identification documents and streamlining interactions with government and financial institutions.
Get your Individual Number – Using Jūminhyō (Certificate of Residence)
Besides applying just for your My Number Card, you can get your Individual Number faster by applying for a Certificate of Residence at your local City Hall.
This method will not give you the My Number Card. However, if you need to know your Individual Number quickly, it is the best method!
That being said, all you need to do is go to your local City Hall, fill out the Application for Certificate of Residence form (example below), bring your ID (just in case, bring your Residence Card – zairyu card, and passport), pay 300 yen, and submit it at a the capable section/desk. You should get the document after a few minutes!
If you don’t know where to go, ask for help saying:
(I want to apply for my Certificate of Residence).
On the form, mark all the information you want to be in the Certificate of Residence and for which individuals in your household. If you live by yourself, just mark the option Certificate of Residence of all members.
Here’s an English version of the Application form provided by Minato City (please check your city’s website to download this form or get one by going to the City Hall).
How Can I Apply for a My Number Card?
All registered residents of Japan can apply for the card, and the easiest way is online through the Official website.
Therefore, after registering your address at your local City Hall, you will receive a Notification mailed to you in about 2-3 weeks. In the envelope, you’ll find your Individual Number Notice letter, containing the following information:
- Individual Number (My Number 12-digit number) – can already be used for tax purposes
- QR Code to Apply Online for the Card
- 13-digit Application ID Number (very important!)
Application Methods
In-Person My Number Card Application
On the other hand, if you wish to do it in person, or if you lost your letters, you can visit your local City Hall and request your Individual number and/or My Number Card there.
Required Documents: Bring your Residence Card (zairyu card), passport, the Individual Number Notice you got by mail (if you have it), and a filled-out application form, which you can obtain at the City Hall or download the English version here. (Other languages here)
I recommend you search for マイナンバーカードCITY区 on Google to learn more about how the process works in your Ward/City.
Example: マイナンバーカード新宿区 (Shinjuku City)
Application Form
How to fill out the Application Form
Electronic certificates are required for Convenience Store Issuance service, filing electronic applications such as e-Tax, logging into the MynaPortal website, and a variety of other services such as the use of health insurance cards and My Number Points that are scheduled to be offered in the future.
Don’t forget to attach a photo to be printed out on your card! The picture must be:
- Taken within the 6 months prior to the submission date.
- Facing front, no hat, no background.
Size: 4.5cm height ×3.5cm width（No frame） - Neutral expression.
The facial outline must fit within the frame. - No shadow is seen on the face or background.
- Clear resolution.
- No tint or damage on the photo.
- Clearly visible face.
Online My Number Card Application
Through the マイナンバー Official Website, you can apply for the Card in 6 steps. The application website is in Japanese, so we’ll help you navigate it here.
Step 1
Confirm you’ve read the Terms and Conditions.
Step 2
Input your 13-digit Application ID Number (from the notice letter you received), Name for email contact (Last Name First Name), and email address. Confirm your info and click on Register.
Step 3
An email with the authentication number and link to register your application will be sent to the email address registered. So make sure to check your Inbox and Spam!
Click on the link received and input the Authentication Number from the email.
Step 4
Now you must upload a photograph of your face to be on your My Number Card. Be careful with the requirements for the photograph! If it doesn’t meet them, your application won’t be accepted.
- The background colors can be of any single color as long as it is different from the applicant’s hair or clothing color.
- The photograph must be taken within the last 6 months (front view, no hat, plain backdrop)
- A bright and clear photograph
- Images that have been edited using image editing software may not be accepted
After uploading your picture, click on Confirm. Check the requirements (if you need, you can re-upload the picture) and then hit Register.
Step 5
Enter your personal information, such as birth date, if you’d like to have an electronic certificate (highly recommended to have it), and if you’d like for your card to have braille notation.
After that, hit Confirm, check all the information written, and go to the next and final step.
Step 6
Finally, your application is finished and a confirmation email will be sent to you (it may take some time) with your Application ID number.
After receiving the email, you’ll get a letter from your city letting you know that the card is ready to be picked up at your local City Hall.
And finally, we’re done with the My Card application!
All the steps can also be checked in this official PDF.
Official pamphlet for Foreign Nationals regarding the My Number.
Procedures at Municipal Offices.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the My Number Card is an invaluable asset for residents in Japan, streamlining access to essential services and enhancing your overall quality of life. By understanding what it is, and what you can use it for, you’ll be well on your way to reaping the benefits of this innovative identification system in Japan.
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