When living in Japan, you will often come across the terms “Resident Record” and “Family Register.”

These are familiar systems to Japanese people, but they may be somewhat difficult to understand for foreign nationals who are starting their lives in Japan.

1. What is a Resident Record?

A Resident Record is a record of information about where a person lives and other basic information about their current life.

It includes information such as the person’s address, name, and date of birth.

Foreign nationals living in Japan may also be registered as residents and have a Resident Record created if they meet certain requirements.

2. The Difference Between an Address and a Registered Domicile

“Address” and “Registered Domicile” may sound similar, but they have different meanings.

An address is the place where a person currently lives.

A Registered Domicile, on the other hand, indicates the place where a person’s Family Register is maintained.

Therefore, changing your address does not automatically change your Registered Domicile.

3. What is a Family Register?

A Family Register (Koseki) is a system used in Japan to record the family and legal status of Japanese nationals.

It records information such as who a person’s parents and children are, when and where the person was born, and information concerning marriage and divorce.

A simple way to understand the difference is that a Resident Record records information about where a person currently lives, while a Family Register records information about the person’s family relationships and legal status.

For foreign nationals who are registered as residents in Japan, their nationality/region and other information are also recorded in their Resident Record.

4. Where Are Resident Record and Family Register Procedures Handled?

Procedures concerning Resident Records and Family Registers are generally handled at the municipal office of the relevant city, ward, town, or village.

The required notifications and documents vary depending on the procedure, such as moving, birth, marriage, or divorce.

5. Foreign Nationals and Administrative Procedures in Japan

When foreign nationals live in Japan, they may need to complete various administrative procedures in addition to procedures concerning their status of residence, including resident registration.

In addition, when examining an application for a status of residence in Japan, the authorities review the information and documents submitted by the applicant.

If there are inconsistencies in the applicant’s background or past records, these may affect the examination and may result in the application being denied.

Therefore, when applying for a status of residence, it is important to accurately check not only your current situation but also your past history and the documents you submit.

【３　Main Residence and Immigration Applications in Japan】

【９　Submitting Immigration Applications on Behalf of Foreign Nationals in Japan】