The Secret to Enjoying Life in Japan! How to Use My Number Card for Foreigners
Japan is a country with many attractions such as its beautiful nature, culture, and advanced technology. However, when a foreigner lives in Japan, various procedures and information gathering are required. One of the most important of these is a personal number card called a "My Number Card.
This article provides a detailed explanation of the super convenient functions of the My Number Card that foreigners should know about, as well as its usage and recommendations.
What is a My Number Card?
Outline of the My Number Card System
My number card is a card introduced by the Japanese government to identify residents in Japan and is also available to foreigners. Personal and tax-related information is managed centrally. By completing the necessary procedures to obtain this card, foreigners will be able to identify themselves and live more smoothly in Japan.
How to obtain a My Number Card
In order for a foreigner to obtain a Minerpoint card, the following steps must be taken
- application: You can apply at the application counter of your city, ward, town or village.
- identification (of a person): Identification documents are required at the time of application, and in the case of non-Japanese applicants, a residence card or passport is also required.
- Fill out application form: Fill out the application form provided and submit it to the counter.
- photographyThe photo will be used for the card. In some cases, the photo may be taken at the counter.
- Card Receipt: Once your application is accepted, your My Number card will be issued and you can pick it up at the counter.
There is no charge for the application. However, please note that a fee will be charged for reissuance for reasons such as loss or damage.
Super Convenient Functions of My Number Card that Foreigners Should Know
Enrollment in health insurance
In Japan, enrollment in health insurance is required by law. If you have your My Number Card, you can smoothly complete the enrollment procedures for health insurance. In addition, by registering for the use of the health insurance card, the my number card itself can be used as an insurance card. This allows you to use medical services in Japan with greater peace of mind.
Access to Financial Services
My number card can also be used to open bank accounts and credit cards. With the card, even a short-term visitor can open a bank account in Japan and have the account denominated in yen. Some financial institutions will also issue cash cards and credit cards using the card. This allows foreigners to take advantage of Japanese financial services.
Access to public institutions
My number card is also used as a means of access to public institutions. For example, procedures at tax offices and pension offices may be simplified by presenting this card. The my number card can also be used for various procedures, such as obtaining a resident certificate or driver's license. This will allow foreign nationals to smoothly communicate with public institutions.
What you need to know about how to use your My Number Card
Access to leisure activities
Japan offers a wealth of tourist attractions and entertainment facilities. If you have a my number card, you can receive discounted rates and priority admission privileges at some facilities. Furthermore, by registering your card information, you can also use online reservation services and point cards. This allows foreign residents to enjoy leisure activities in Japan conveniently.
Improved shopping experience
Japan is one of the world's great shopping destinations. With your My Number Card, you can receive special offers and discounts for foreigners at some stores. You can also use the card to earn points. This allows foreigners to enjoy the Japanese shopping experience even more.
Expanding Cultural Experiences
The opportunity to experience traditional Japanese culture and art is extremely valuable. If you have a my number card, you can receive preferential rates and privileges at cultural experience facilities. For example, there are various activities such as tea ceremony experience and kimono rental. This allows foreigners to enjoy Japanese cultural experiences more deeply.
Convenience store delivery" is convenient!
Convenience store delivery is a service that allows you to use your My Number Card to obtain official documents and certificates provided by municipalities and public institutions at multi-copy machines in convenience stores. This service is very convenient because it can be used at any convenience store nationwide, regardless of the municipality in which you live. Not all cities, wards, towns, and villages offer this service, so you need to check in advance.
What can I get?
- certified copy of certificate of residence: A certificate of residence is a document that proves residency information such as address and family structure. If you need a copy of your certificate of residence, you can obtain one at a convenience store.
- certificate of official registration of a seal: A seal certificate is a document that certifies that an individual has a specific seal. It may be used for transactions and contracts.
- official copy of the family register: A copy of family register is a certificate concerning the family registration information of oneself or one's family members. It is used for various domestic and international procedures.
- tax declaration certificate: A taxation certificate is a document that proves tax payment status, such as property tax and income tax. It may be required for special exception applications and loans.
When is it available? Is it easy to obtain?
The service is available from 6:30 to 23:00 daily. However, availability may be limited by the city, ward, or town, so please check with your local government office to confirm the hours of availability before using the service.
You can obtain the card from a multi-copy machine installed in a convenience store. You will need your PIN, so be sure to remember the PIN you set when your My Number Card was issued.
Reference:Municipalities where available , How to obtain a certificate
summary
The use of the My Number Card is essential for foreign residents to enhance their lives in Japan. It has many useful functions, such as enrollment in health insurance, access to financial services, and access to public institutions. It can also enhance leisure activities, shopping experiences, and cultural experiences.
It is important for foreigners to make effective use of their My Number Card in order to explore Japan more deeply and gain diverse experiences.
