Arriving in Japan
Objective: Move confidently from the airport to your first accommodation.
Documents and essentials
- Passport with visa sticker
- Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
- Disembarkation card (given on the plane)
- Address of your first accommodation
What actually happens
- 1Complete the disembarkation card
Fill in your Japan address (temporary is fine) before landing to speed up the immigration queue.
- 2Receive your Residence Card
At Narita, Haneda, Kansai, Chubu, Fukuoka, New Chitose and Hiroshima airports, your Zairyū Card is printed on the spot.
- 3Buy a SIM or pocket Wi-Fi
Pick up a data SIM or rental Wi-Fi near arrivals — you will need maps and translation immediately.
- 4Head to your accommodation
Use the Airport Limousine bus, JR Narita Express or Shinkansen depending on your destination — IC cards work on all of them.
Say these when it matters
Keep your Residence Card and passport in the same slim wallet — you will be asked for them at your accommodation, City Hall and mobile shop.
If you arrive at a smaller airport your Residence Card is mailed later — register your address at City Hall within 14 days regardless.
One quick question
How soon must you register your address after landing?