Residence Card + My Number Integration: Starts June 14, 2026, but Applications Open June 15

Japan's residence card and My Number card integration is not a forced mass replacement. The new system starts on June 14, 2026, but applications at regional immigration offices begin on June 15, 2026. Your current card remains valid until its expiry date.

Who's affected

This matters if you are listed in Japan's Basic Resident Register as either:

• a mid- to long-term resident
  中長期在留者
• a special permanent resident
  特別永住者

In plain terms: if you normally hold a residence card and live in Japan as a registered resident, this is about you.

The integrated card for ordinary foreign residents is called a specified residence card
特定在留カード.

For special permanent residents, the equivalent is a specified special permanent resident certificate
特定特別永住者証明書.

What changes

The new card combines the functions of:

• your residence card, and
• your My Number card

But it does not mean everyone must immediately swap cards.

If you apply for the integrated version, the card face will show key residence-card information such as:

• name
• date of birth
• sex
• nationality/region
• address in Japan
• status of residence
• period of stay expiry date
• card number
• card validity expiry date
• work restrictions
• whether you have permission for activities outside your status

Some information will move to the IC chip only, including:

• period of stay
• type and date of permission
• card issue date

Your My Number will be printed on the back of the card.

The big non-change: it is optional

You do not have to get the integrated card.

If you do not apply for one, you will receive a regular residence card in the new format instead.

Cards issued before the system starts remain valid until their existing expiry date. Switching before expiry is optional.

The photo rule gets stricter

Under the current rule, children under 16 do not need a face photo on the card.

After the amendment, a face photo will be required for all ages except children under 1 year old.

That is a practical trap for families: even young children will generally need a photo prepared for the new card process.

Where to apply

Applications can be made at:

• regional immigration offices
  地方出入国在留管理官署
• municipal counters
  市区町村窓口

Immigration counters start accepting applications on June 15, 2026.

Municipal counters are expected to start around the same period, but the exact handling may depend on the municipality — check before going.

Fees: free at first, then not always

The fee rule depends on timing and whether it is your first application.

Applications made up to June 13, 2026, and first applications made on or after June 14, 2026, are free.

After that, fees apply:

• to immigration: ¥1,900
• if handled by post: ¥2,600
• to J-LIS: ¥600–¥800

The main point: the first application is treated favorably, but later procedures may not be free.

The catch: no same-day card

Do not plan this like a normal residence-card pickup.

Issuance of the integrated card is expected to take around two weeks or more. Normal same-day issuance is not available.

That matters if you are renewing status, changing jobs, moving, opening accounts, or timing paperwork around travel. Build in extra time.

What you should do now

If your current card is still valid, you do not need to rush.

Do this instead:

1. Check your card expiry date. You can keep using your current residence card until it expires.
2. Decide whether integration helps you. If you prefer one card with My Number functions, apply. If not, use the regular new-format residence card.
3. Families should prepare photos for children. After the change, only children under 1 are exempt from the face-photo requirement.
4. Avoid tight travel timing. The integrated card takes around two weeks or more and is not issued the same day.
5. Confirm your local counter. City and ward offices are expected to start around the same period, but local handling should be checked directly.

This is a convenience reform, not a new immigration status and not a new obligation to replace your card immediately.

Sources: ISA Q&A on the amended law · ISA notice on specified residence cards

Common questions