If you’re moving to Tokyo as a full-time student, there are several important administrative steps to complete after your arrival. Japan has a structured system for residence registration, health insurance, pension contributions, and taxation. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate these essential tasks smoothly when moving to Tokyo.
1. Registering at the City Office (住民登録 – Jūmin Tōroku)
Where to Go?
You must visit the city (区役所, kuyakusho) or ward office in the area where you will live within 14 days of moving to Tokyo. For example, if you’re living in Shinjuku, go to the Shinjuku City Office.
What to Bring?
- Residence Card (在留カード – Zairyū Kādo) (issued at the airport upon arrival)
- Passport
- University Enrollment Certificate (入学許可書 – Nyūgaku Kyokasho) (optional but helpful)
- Rental Contract (賃貸契約 – Chintai Keiyaku) (if available, to confirm your address)
What Will You Receive?
A Resident Certificate (住民票 – Jūminhyō), which is required for many official processes when moving to Tokyo. You may also be assigned a My Number (マイナンバー) Card, a national identification number used for taxes, pension, and other government services.
2. National Health Insurance (国民健康保険 – Kokumin Kenkō Hoken)
Japan requires all residents to be enrolled in health insurance. As a student, you will join the National Health Insurance (NHI), which covers 70% of your medical expenses.
How to Apply?
You can apply at the same ward office where you register your address when moving to Tokyo. Bring your Residence Card and Student ID (if available).
You will receive an insurance card (健康保険証 – Kenkō Hokenshō) by mail within a few weeks.
How Much Does It Cost?
The monthly premium is around ¥2,000–¥4,000, depending on your income. As a student, you can apply for a reduction at the city office.
3. Pension System (国民年金 – Kokumin Nenkin)
Although you are a student, you are required to enroll in Japan’s National Pension System (国民年金 – Kokumin Nenkin). However, you can apply for an exemption from payments.
How to Apply?
Register at the ward office after receiving your My Number. Apply for a Student Payment Exemption (学生納付特例 – Gakusei Nōfu Tokurei) to delay pension payments.
What to Bring?
- Residence Card
- Student ID or University Enrollment Certificate
If you plan to stay in Japan long-term, consider paying pension contributions, as you can withdraw the pension upon leaving Japan if you’ve paid for at least six months.
4. Opening a Bank Account
A Japanese bank account is essential for receiving scholarships, part-time job payments, or paying bills when moving to Tokyo.
Best Banks for Students:
- Japan Post Bank (ゆうちょ銀行 – Yūcho Ginkō) (easiest to open, even without a Japanese phone number)
- Shinsei Bank (新生銀行) (supports English and has online banking)
- Mizuho, SMBC, Mitsubishi UFJ (traditional major banks, but may require a six-month stay before account opening)
Requirements:
- Residence Card
- Passport
- University Student ID (if issued)
- Phone Number (some banks require a Japanese number)
5. Registering for Taxes
As a student, you generally don’t need to pay taxes unless you have a part-time job. However, you will still receive a Taxpayer Number (My Number), which must be kept for future use.
If You Work Part-Time:
Your employer will withhold income tax from your salary. If you earn less than ¥1,030,000 per year, you can be tax-exempt and might need to file a tax return in March to claim a refund.
6. Getting a SIM Card & Phone Plan
To open a bank account and complete other administrative tasks when moving to Tokyo, you need a Japanese phone number.
Best SIM Card Options for Students:
- Rakuten Mobile (no contract, good data plans, free calls within Japan)
- LINEMO (affordable, runs on SoftBank’s network, ideal for LINE users)
- Y! Mobile (discounts for students, runs on SoftBank’s network)
For long-term stays, consider a contract with Docomo, AU, or SoftBank, but they may require a two-year commitment.
7. Transport: Getting a Student Commuter Pass (通学定期券 – Tsūgaku Teikiken)
Tokyo’s transport system is expensive, so getting a student commuter pass for your university route is essential when moving to Tokyo.
How to Apply?
Obtain a Student Commuter Certificate (通学証明書 – Tsūgaku Shōmeisho) from your university. Go to a train station ticket office (for JR, Tokyo Metro, or Toei Subway).
What to Bring?
- Student Commuter Certificate
- Residence Card
- Student ID
Discounts depend on the distance but can cut monthly transport costs by 50%.
Click here for more information.
8. Other Important Things to Do if you are Moving to Tokyo
✔ Learn Basic Japanese: Even though many services offer English support, basic Japanese will help in daily life. ✔ Download Essential Apps:
- Google Translate (for communication)
- Hyperdia or Google Maps (for trains)
- PayPay or LINE Pay (for cashless payments) ✔ Explore Your Area: Find your nearest convenience store, supermarket, and hospital.
Final Checklist for New Students in Tokyo
✅ Register your address at the ward office when moving to Tokyo
✅ Enroll in National Health Insurance
✅ Apply for a Pension Payment Exemption
✅ Open a Bank Account
✅ Register your My Number for tax purposes
✅ Get a Japanese SIM Card
✅ Apply for a Student Commuter Pass
Conclusion
Moving to Tokyo as a full-time student involves several bureaucratic steps, but completing them early will make your life much easier. The key places to visit when moving to Tokyo are your ward office, a bank, a phone store, and your university office. Once these tasks are done, you can focus on enjoying student life in Japan!
📢 Disclaimer: The information provided in this guide is based on current regulations and procedures as of the time of writing. However, laws, rules, and administrative procedures in Japan are subject to change. Requirements may vary depending on your city, ward, or personal circumstances.
For the most up-to-date and accurate information, always check with your local city/ward office, immigration bureau, or university administration before proceeding with any official procedures.
Do you want to apply for an university in Japan? Then click here. If you are already moving to Japan, better getting adjusted to the non verbal communication in Japan.
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