Published on and written by Cyril Jarnias
Dreaming of living in the Land of the Rising Sun? Moving to Japan is an exciting adventure, but one that requires careful preparation. Between the language barrier, cultural differences, and administrative procedures, it’s best to be well-prepared to ensure a successful relocation. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you take the leap and fully experience your life as an expatriate in Japan.
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Prepare for Your Departure Like a Pro
The key to a successful expatriation lies in thorough advance preparation. Here are the essential steps not to overlook before your big move to Japan:
Learn the basics of Japanese. Even though English is increasingly spoken in major cities, mastering some fundamentals of Japanese will make your daily life much easier. Sign up for classes, use apps like Duolingo, or watch Japanese series with subtitles to familiarize yourself with the language.
Research Japanese culture. Japan has social and cultural codes very different from ours. Read books, expat blogs, and watch documentaries to immerse yourself in Japanese culture. This will help you avoid many missteps once you’re there.
Sort through your belongings. Japanese homes are generally smaller than ours. Only bring the essentials and prioritize buying the rest locally. Also, check the compatibility of your electronic devices with Japanese voltage (100V).
Prepare your important documents. Passport, visa, translated birth and marriage certificates, diplomas… Gather all necessary documents and make copies. Don’t forget to purchase international health insurance before your departure.
Research the cost of living. Japan, especially Tokyo, can be expensive. Create a budget considering rent, transportation, food, and leisure. Set aside emergency savings for unexpected expenses.
Good to know:
Preparation is key to a successful expatriation. Take the time to research the culture, language, and cost of living in Japan to avoid unpleasant surprises.
Obtain the Precious Key: Getting Your Visa for Japan
To stay in Japan for more than 90 days, you’ll need to obtain a visa. The process may seem complex, but by following these steps, you’ll maximize your chances:
Determine the type of visa that fits your situation. There are different types of visas depending on the purpose of your stay: work, study, family reunification, etc. The most common visa for expatriates is the work visa, which requires a job offer from a Japanese company.
Obtain a Certificate of Eligibility (COE). This document, issued by the Japanese Immigration Bureau, is essential for applying for your visa. Usually, your employer or school handles this process.
- Your valid passport
- The completed visa application form
- A recent ID photo
- The original Certificate of Eligibility and a copy
- Any other required documents depending on your situation
Be patient. Processing your application can take from a few days to several weeks. Once you have your visa, you generally have 3 months to enter Japan.
Prepare for arrival. Upon arrival in Japan, you’ll need to present your visa and COE to the immigration authorities. You will then receive your residence card, essential for many administrative procedures.
Good to know:
The visa application process can be long and complex. Start your procedures at least 3 months before your planned departure and ensure you have all required documents to avoid delays.
First Steps in Japan: Essential Procedures Upon Arrival
Once you arrive in Japan, several administrative procedures await to formalize your relocation. Here are the essential steps not to miss:
Register at your local city hall. Within 14 days of your arrival, you must register at the municipal office of your place of residence. This procedure is mandatory and will allow you to obtain your residence card (zairyu card), an essential document for your stay in Japan.
Open a bank account. Having a Japanese bank account will make your life much easier for paying bills, receiving your salary, or renting an apartment. Choose a bank that offers services in English, like Shinsei Bank or Japan Post Bank.
Enroll in national health insurance. If you’re not covered by your employer’s insurance, you must register for the national health insurance system (kokumin kenko hoken) at your city hall. This insurance covers 70% of your medical expenses.
Get a personal number (My Number). This unique identification number will be automatically assigned to you after registering at the city hall. It’s necessary for many administrative and tax procedures.
Register with the French embassy. Although optional, this step is recommended. It will allow you to receive important information and benefit from consular assistance if needed.
Good to know:
Administrative procedures in Japan can be complex for foreigners. Don’t hesitate to ask for help from your employer or a Japanese colleague to guide you through these initial steps.
Finding Your Cozy Nest: The Quest for Housing in Japan
Finding housing in Japan can be a real challenge for expatriates. Here are some tips to help you find your future home:
Familiarize yourself with housing types. In Japan, apartments (manshon for modern ones, apaato for older ones) and single-family homes (ikkodate) are the main types. Homes are generally smaller than in France, especially in big cities.
Set your budget. Rents can be very high, especially in Tokyo. Expect to spend an average of 30 to 40% of your salary on housing. Don’t forget to budget for utilities (water, electricity, gas), which are rarely included in the rent.
Choose your neighborhood. Proximity to public transportation is an important criterion in Japan. Research the different neighborhoods in your city and their atmosphere to find the one that suits you best.
Use a real estate agency. Most Japanese landlords use agencies to rent their properties. Some agencies like Fontana or Ken Corporation specialize in foreign clients and offer services in English.
- Security deposit (shikikin)
- Agency fees
- “Gift” to the landlord (reikin)
- First month’s rent
Be prepared to provide a guarantor. Many landlords require a Japanese guarantor to rent to a foreigner. If you don’t have one, you can use a guarantor company for an additional fee.
Good to know:
Finding housing in Japan can be time-consuming and expensive. Start your search as early as possible and budget for significant initial costs.
Integrating into Japanese Society: Keys to Feeling at Home
Adapting to Japanese culture and building connections with locals is essential for a successful expatriation. Here are some tips to facilitate your integration:
Deepen your Japanese learning. Even if you already have basics, continue practicing regularly. Sign up for language classes, participate in language exchanges, or join a conversation club.
Respect Japanese social codes. Politeness and respect for rules are very important in Japan. Learn the basics of Japanese etiquette: greetings, business card exchange, chopstick use, etc. Your effort will be appreciated, even if you make mistakes.
Participate in local events. Festivals (matsuri) and traditional celebrations are numerous in Japan. Participate to discover local culture and meet people. Your city hall probably also organizes events for foreign residents.
Join associations or clubs. This is an excellent way to meet Japanese people who share your interests. Whether you’re passionate about sports, art, or cooking, there’s likely a club that will suit you.
Build relationships with your colleagues. In Japan, it’s common to go out for drinks after work (nomikai). Participate in these social moments to build connections with your Japanese colleagues.
Stay open-minded. You will inevitably encounter cultural differences that may surprise or unsettle you. Keep an open mind and try to understand rather than judge.
Good to know:
Integration into Japanese society takes time and patience. Don’t get discouraged if initial contacts seem difficult; Japanese people can be reserved at first but are generally very welcoming once the ice is broken.
Renewing Your Visa: Procedures for Extending Your Stay in Japan
If you wish to stay in Japan beyond your visa’s initial duration, you’ll need to renew it. Here are the steps to follow:
Check your visa expiration date. Start renewal procedures at least 3 months before this date. You can submit your application up to 3 months before your current visa expires.
- The renewal application form
- Your passport and residence card
- A recent ID photo
- Proof of your activity in Japan (employment contract, school certificate, etc.)
- Proof of income or resources
Submit your application at the immigration bureau. You’ll need to go in person to the immigration bureau that covers your place of residence. Plan to spend several hours there, as wait times can be long.
Pay the renewal fees. The amount varies depending on the requested renewal period. Expect about 4000 yen for a one-year renewal.
Wait for the decision. Processing your application can take from a few weeks to several months. You’ll receive a notice inviting you to pick up your new visa once it’s ready.
Update your residence card. Once you have your new visa, don’t forget to update the information on your residence card.
Good to know:
Visa renewal is not automatic. Make sure you meet all requirements and provide all requested documents to maximize your chances of getting a renewal.
Life in Japan involves familiarizing yourself with a number of administrative procedures. Here are the main ones to know:
Income tax declaration. If you reside in Japan for more than 12 months, you’ll need to declare your income each year between February and March. Your employer can often handle this for you, but verify that this is the case.
Payment of local taxes. In addition to income tax, you’ll need to pay local taxes (juminzei) to your municipality. They are usually automatically deducted from your salary.
Renewal of residence card. Your zairyu card must be renewed periodically, independently of your visa. The frequency depends on your residence status.
Social security registration. If you work in Japan, you must be enrolled in the Japanese social security system, which includes health insurance, pension insurance, and unemployment insurance.
Change of address. If you move, you must report your new address to your city hall within 14 days of moving.
Driver’s license. If you wish to drive in Japan, you’ll need to obtain a Japanese license or convert your French license. The procedure can be long and complex, so plan accordingly.
Good to know:
Administrative procedures in Japan can be complex for foreigners. Don’t hesitate to ask for help from your employer, city hall, or expatriate associations if you encounter difficulties.
Know Your Rights: Laws and Regulations Concerning Foreigners in Japan
As an expatriate in Japan, it’s crucial to know your rights and obligations. Here’s an overview of the main laws and regulations to know:
Immigration Control Law. This law governs the entry and stay conditions for foreigners in Japan. It defines the different types of visas and the conditions for obtaining or renewing them.
Foreign Registration Law. It requires all foreign residents to register with their municipality and obtain a residence card (zairyu card).
Labor Standards Law. It applies to all workers in Japan, including foreigners. It defines workers’ rights regarding minimum wage, working hours, paid leave, etc.
Health Insurance Law. All residents in Japan, including foreigners, must be covered by health insurance, either through their employer or the national health insurance system.
Personal Data Protection Law. It protects the confidentiality of residents’ personal information, including foreigners.
Anti-discrimination law. Although there is no specific law against discrimination towards foreigners, the Japanese Constitution guarantees equality before the law for all.
Good to know:
In case of problems or discrimination, don’t hesitate to contact your embassy or foreigner support associations. They can guide you and help you assert your rights.
Moving to Japan as an expatriate is an exciting adventure that requires good preparation and patience. By following this guide and staying open-minded, you’ll maximize your chances of successfully settling in this fascinating country.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or professional advice. We encourage you to consult qualified experts before making any investment, real estate, or expatriation decisions. Although we strive to maintain up-to-date and accurate information, we do not guarantee the completeness, accuracy, or timeliness of the proposed content. As investment and expatriation involve risks, we disclaim any liability for potential losses or damages arising from the use of this site. Your use of this site confirms your acceptance of these terms and your understanding of the associated risks.
Cyril Jarnias is an independent expert in international wealth management with over 20 years of experience. As an expatriate himself, he is dedicated to helping individuals and business leaders build, protect, and pass on their wealth with complete peace of mind.
On his website, cyriljarnias.com, he shares his expertise on international real estate, offshore company formation, and expatriation.
Thanks to his expertise, he offers sound advice to optimize his clients' wealth management. Cyril Jarnias is also recognized for his appearances in many prestigious media outlets such as BFM Business, les Français de l’étranger, Le Figaro, Les Echos, and Mieux vivre votre argent, where he shares his knowledge and know-how in wealth management.
