link01

Post Arrival Procedures

Since you’ll be busy upon arrival, consider creating a list of important tasks to handle:

・Overseas Residential Registration
If you plan to stay overseas for more than three months, remember to register.

・Register with Tabi-Regi
If you are planning stay abroad for less than three months or planning a business trip to another country during your extended stay, stay informed by registering with “Tabi-Regi,” a service providing essential safety information for your destination.

・Register as an overseas voter

・Check diplomatic offices

・Set up utilities

・Open a local bank account

・Car / Driver’s License

・Gather safety information (political situation, crime, sanitation, medical conditions, housing safety, emergency contact list, etc.)

• Things to Do Before Departure (IVS “Pre-Departure” page)

link02

Money

Consider the advantages and disadvantages of cash, international cash cards, and credit cards based on your destination, purpose, and duration of stay to optimize local payments and transactions.

Cash

Cash is easy to use and good backup in case your card is not accepted. However, it is advisable not to carry large amounts of cash because of the risk of theft and pickpocketing.

Bank

If you want to use your Japanese bank account abroad, please contact your bank to discuss your options and requirements, as each bank handles international use differently. In some cases, you may be able to open an overseas bank account prior to travel, so please consult with your bank, administrative scrivener, or support company.
Opening a local bank account requires identification and proof of residence. Internet banking allows balance inquiries and money transfers from abroad.

International cash card

You can withdraw local currency from your Japanese bank account at affiliated ATMs overseas.

International debit card

Like a credit card, you can withdraw local currency from affiliated ATMs in your destination country and make purchases at participating stores. However, not all stores accept international debit cards.

International prepaid card

You don’t need a bank account. Load money beforehand and withdraw local currency or pay at affiliated ATMs abroad.

Credit card

・Payment type overseas
Check “lump-sum” or “revolving” requirements beforehand.

・Track your balance and statements carefully.

・Review included services
Some cards offer helpful overseas features.

・Overseas cash advances
Consider the convenience.

・Use local currency
Expect currency conversion fees for transactions in Japanese yen abroad.

・Exchange fees
Expect fees when spending from a Japanese account overseas.

・Check descriptions
Review transaction details closely, including restaurant tips.

• Manage Your Money (JASSO)(This page is only available in Japanese.)

link03

Temporary Japan Visit

While you likely have many exciting and necessary things planned, remember: Don’t underestimate the time needed for public procedures. Start researching requirements early. Book flights early as availability and prices fluctuate significantly.

Medical checkup

Schedule a medical checkup and ensure any concerns are addressed while in Japan. Consider dental work in Japan for potential cost savings as some procedures might not be covered by your insurance abroad. Refill essential medications.

Staying connected while in Japan

Staying online is crucial these days, even during temporary trips home. However, internet access might not be as seamless as you expect. Here’s what to consider beforehand:

・Renting a Wi-Fi router
・Renting a mobile phone
・Prepaid / rental SIM
・Free Wi-Fi
・Tethering using a smartphone
・IP phone

Shopping

Know the rules for taking back purchases from Japan:

・Weight restrictions
・Carry-on allowances
・Quarantine regulations
・Duty-free limit
・Prohibited/restricted items

Driver’s license

You can only renew your Japanese driver’s license in Japan. Renew your driver’s license smoothly during your stay in Japan. Learn more about the process and requirements here.

• Driver’s License (Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan) (This page is only available in Japanese.)

Visit Japan Web Service

Simplify your arrival experience with the Visit Japan Web Service. It offers both international arrivals and returning residents the convenience of completing essential procedures like quarantine, immigration inspection, customs declarations, and duty-free applications online before your trip. (Paper forms are still available at the airport.)

• Visit Japan Web (Digital Agency, Government of Japan)