Any foreign residents who plan on being in Japan more than 90 days must apply for an alien registration card. It is called "gaikokujin torokusho." (外人登録証）.

Where can you register to become a resident alien?

Registration is conucted at any city or ward offices in cities and at alien registration windows in town and village offices.

• Application form - availible at alien registration window
• Passport
• Two pictures - 3.5cm x 4.5cm of the head, facing forward and taken within six months will be accepted. Those under age 16 are not required to submit pictures.

  Registration cards are generally ready within two weeks of application.

Foreign nationals are required to apply for registration of their status and residence at the municipal office of the city, ward, town or village in which their residences are located, within 90 days of landing, or within 60 days in the case of the birth of a child or renouncement of Japanese nationality. All registered foreign nationals of 16 years of age or over are required to carry their alien registration cards with them.

Notification of change in address, name, nationality or visa status must be made within two weeks of the change. One must also reapply as soon as possible if one's card becomes illegible or lost.

	Ministry of Japan - Official website with information regarding immigration and resident aliens.
	Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Foreign consulates in Japan contact information.
	Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Official website of the Japanese MOFA and visa information.