I often encounter a lot of confusion regarding the My Number system, what it is for, when it’s needed and how to get it.

Here is a quick break down of the My number system and how you can make life easier with a My Number Card.

Every citizen and registered resident in Japan has an Individual Number called “My Number.”

The “My Number” System is short for the “Social Security and Tax Number System.” This system provides one unique 12 digits number for all registered residents in Japan.

If you live in Japan, this number will be required whenever you visit the Ward office, immigration office, etc. 

Enter the My Number Card.

Having a My number card can make your life way easier and here are 6 reasons why you should give ut a go.

  1. It acts as a document which verifies your My Number

You can use it as a document that verifies My Number (the Individual Number) in situations where it is required to present My Number. This definitely beats walking around with a document everywhere you go.

  1. Ability to apply online for various administrative procedures

Your My number card can be used to apply online for a variety of governmental procedures, including logging into the My Number site.

3) Acts as another form of identification.

Your My Number card acts as an official identification card for identity verification in a variety of situations including when opening an account in a financial institution or when getting a new passport issued.

4) For various private online transactions, etc.

It is sometimes required that your my number card be available for various private online transactions including online banking.

5) Other Cards from other municipalities can be integrated into the Individual Number Card.

Different municipalities offer different services. These cards can all be integrated into one card making life easier.

6) Ability to print official certificates at convenience stores

This is a huge time saver! Official certificates including a resident record or a seal registration certificate can be printed at convenience stores.A trip to the ward office can take quite a bit of time.

This can be a life saver. 

If you are the proactive type looking for a smoother administrative future, then the My Number Card is a great thing to have in your wallet! 

As always, we’d love for you to come say hi to us at our International Real Estate branch in Kusunoki. We help foreigners find apartments in Hiroshima and Okayama. Reach out to our staff who can speak English, Chinese, Vietnamese and Spanish if looking for a place at ryowainternational@ryowahouse.co.jp.