How to Get a My Number Card Online in Japan

What is a My Number card?

In Japan, the My Number Card (マイナンバーカード) is a government-issued ID card with a chip. It displays the holder’s name, address, date of birth, sex, a unique “My Number” and portrait photo. It can be used for identity verification and access services like e-Tax and local government support.

Japan is moving toward full digital services. In the future, this card may become required for many legal procedures. It is highly recommended to register early and take advantage of current government offers. 

Continue reading as Smiles Mobile Remittance guides you through the fastest and easiest way to apply for your My Number Card online.

Benefits of having a My Number Card

Having a My Number Card can make life easier in Japan. Here are some reasons why:

• You can use it as your health insurance card, so you only need to carry one card when going to the doctor.
• You can also link your driver’s license for convenience and enhanced security.
• You can use it to complete important procedures online, such as renewing your visa, without going to the immigration office.
• You can use it to print out important government papers like your juminhyo (住民票) at convenience stores instead of going to your local city hall.
  

Step-by-step: How to register for a My Number Card

Step 1: Find your application form

When you first arrive in Japan, the local city hall known as the shiyakusho (市役所) will send you an envelope. On the envelope, it will say “マイナンバーカード授权申請 在中”, which means “My Number Card Authorization Application Enclosed.”

Inside the envelope, you’ll find:

• A My Number Card application form, called kōfu shinseisho (交付申請書), which has a QR code in the corner.
  
• Other documents and a return envelope.

Photo credit: Tamura City

If you lost this form, visit your local city hall to request a new one.

Step 2: Start your My Number Card online application

Use your phone to scan the QR code on the application form or visit the official website. 

You’ll first see the terms of use known as riyou keiyaku (利用契約). Once you agree by checking off the boxes, you can move on to entering your information.

Step 3: Enter your details

You’ll be asked to fill in the following:

• Your 23-digit ID number (this is auto-filled if you used the QR code)
  
• Your full name and email address
  
• A captcha code (a mix of letters and numbers) to confirm you are not a robot

Once done, press the kakunin (確認) button to confirm. Double-check the details on the next screen. If everything is correct, press touroku (登録) to register.

After your information is submitted, you will receive a confirmation email. Click the link in that email to move to the next step.

Step 4: Upload your ID photo

On the next page, upload a clear, recent photo of your face. This will be printed on your My Number Card, so follow these rules below:

• Face the camera directly
  
• No hats, glasses or masks
  
• The photo must be taken within the last 6 months
  

After uploading the photo, do the following:

• Tick the three boxes confirming the photo meets all requirements
  
• Press touroku (登録) to complete the photo submission

After submitting your photo, you’ll then receive an email saying your application was completed successfully.

What happens next?

About four weeks later, you should receive a postcard from your city hall asking you to pick up your card. When you go, bring the following:

• The postcard from your city hall
• Your residence card known as zairyu kaado (在留カード), if you have one
  

Photo credit: Higashihiroshima City

You’ll be asked to set a password and receive your card at the counter.

Final thoughts on My Number Card in Japan

Getting a My Number Card is one of the best ways to access useful government services and support in Japan. It saves time, reduces paperwork and lets you complete many tasks online.

The process is fast and easy—especially if you follow this step-by-step guide. 

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Another useful app for people living in Japan is Smiles Mobile Remittance, which lets you send money overseas using just your smartphone.

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