Trámites oficiales de extranjería en Japón paso a paso

Updated on: February 13, 2026

This guide was written by the Editorial Team at emigrantes.eu, based strictly on official sources (Immigration Services Agency of Japan, Ministry of Justice, and municipal authorities) and updated as of February 2026 to ensure the accuracy of the information.

Step-by-Step Guide to Official Immigration Procedures in Japan

Welcome to the guide on official procedures to complete in Japan. Here you will find step-by-step explanations of the essential procedures for legally settling in: registering your residence at city hall, obtaining a Zairyu residence card, enrolling in national health insurance, receiving your My Number, opening a bank account, and procedures related to employment or studies.
All information is written in Spanish, with clear explanations of each form, required documents, and official links. We also outline the mandatory deadlines after arriving in the country, especially municipal registration, which is essential for accessing basic services and working legally in Japan.

Choose a procedure

How to complete the procedures with your personal advisor and fill out the official forms:

  1. Select the procedure you need
  2. Click “Go to the official procedure” to open the actual procedure page in a new tab.
  3. Return to this page and click “View step-by-step guide” to follow the self-guided instructions while filling out the official form.
  4. We’ve left the fields to be filled out in their original language so you can easily match them with the official form.
🔄 Content reviewed and updated as of December 2025. Based on official sources from the corresponding country. For more information, see our Editorial Policy.
📄 Official sources consulted
  • Official websites of government agencies and public administrations in the relevant country.
  • Institutional portals for immigration, taxation, social security, and public services.
  • Official documentation published by ministries, state agencies, and competent authorities.

Specific sources may vary depending on the country and the procedure. It is always recommended to verify the information directly with the relevant official agency.

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User: “I want to renew my TIE while living in France.”

AE: “Here are the documents, an explanation of the EX-17 form, and completed examples.”

User: “I need a criminal record certificate.”

AE: “I’ll walk you through it step by step and show you how to fill out the application.”

User: “I don’t understand what to put on my tax return.”

AE: “Here’s the 2025 Income Tax Guide explained field by field.”

Related procedures and guides in other countries

If you’re considering other destinations or need to compare procedures, below you’ll find guides on equivalent administrative procedures in other countries, explained step-by-step and based on official sources.

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Official fee calculator
Select a procedure to find out the administrative fee in Japan.

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The Japanese administrative system is precise and highly structured, so following the correct order of procedures is essential. In this guide, you’ll learn how to register with your local municipality, how the Zairyu Card works, what types of visas and residence permits are available, and how to enroll in the Japanese healthcare system.
We’ll also explain how to obtain your My Number, which is required for taxes and employment, how to open a Japanese bank account, and what additional requirements may apply depending on your situation (work, study, or family reunification). Our goal is to help you understand each Japanese official procedure and complete it correctly, without errors or unnecessary expenses.

What are the first official procedures in Japan?

You must register your residence at the city hall, obtain your Zairyu Card, and enroll in the national health insurance.

What is the Zairyu Card?

It is the Japanese residence card that certifies your legal status and is required for working, renting housing, and completing administrative procedures.

Is health insurance mandatory in Japan?

Yes. All residents must be enrolled in the national health insurance system or an equivalent employer-sponsored plan.

What is My Number and what is it used for?

It is a personal identification number used for taxes, social security, and employment-related procedures. It is assigned after you register your residence.

Frequently Asked Questions