Contents
1. Finding a Place to Live: Address Registration and Lease Contracts
One of the very first things you’ll need to do after relocating is to secure a place to live. Whether you choose a temporary apartment or a long-term rental, it’s important to act quickly, as your residential address is necessary for completing many other procedures, such as opening a bank account or registering for public services.
Start by researching local housing options through real estate agents or trusted online platforms. In many countries, including Japan, lease contracts often require several upfront costs, such as a deposit (shikikin), key money (reikin), and agency fees. These can total up to 3 to 5 months’ rent. For example, if your monthly rent is ¥80,000 (approximately $530), your initial move-in cost could be between ¥240,000 to ¥400,000 (roughly $1,590 to $2,650).
Once you have signed the lease agreement, you will need to register your address at your local city or ward office. Bring your passport, residence card (if applicable), and the lease agreement. This registration is essential as it connects you to the city’s administrative system, allowing you to access healthcare, receive mail, and pay taxes.
In addition, some landlords or real estate agencies may require a guarantor or ask you to enroll in a guarantor company. These companies often charge a service fee equivalent to 50–100% of one month’s rent (e.g., ¥40,000–¥80,000 or $265–$530), which is a non-refundable cost.
Make sure to read the lease agreement carefully, including terms regarding contract duration, renewal fees, and restrictions like pet ownership or modifications to the property. If language is a barrier, consider hiring a bilingual consultant or interpreter during the process.
Registering your address promptly not only makes your transition smoother but also prevents complications with government documents and services that rely on your official residency status.
2. Setting Up Electricity, Gas, and Water Services
After securing your new home, the next essential step is setting up your utility services—electricity, gas, and water. These are fundamental to your daily life and comfort, and getting them connected quickly will make your transition much smoother.
In many countries, utility services are not automatically activated when you move in. You will need to contact each provider individually, though some properties offer assistance through the landlord or real estate agent. It’s best to make arrangements before your move-in date to ensure utilities are running when you arrive.
For electricity, contact the regional power company that services your area. The application process usually requires your name, address, move-in date, and contact information. Some providers allow online applications in English. Monthly electricity bills typically range from ¥5,000 to ¥10,000 ($33–$66), depending on usage and season.
Gas setup is a bit more involved. In many cases, a technician visit is required to open the gas valve and check for safety. Be sure to schedule this appointment ahead of time. Gas charges vary, but an average monthly bill may be around ¥3,000 to ¥8,000 ($20–$53), especially if you’re using gas for hot water and cooking.
Water service is usually managed by the local municipal office. You can set it up by calling the water bureau or submitting a form online or in person. Water bills are generally low compared to gas and electricity, with an average monthly cost of ¥2,000 to ¥4,000 ($13–$26).
Be sure to confirm how payments are made—most utility companies offer convenient methods such as automatic bank withdrawals, credit card payments, or payment slips you can take to a convenience store. Some also provide English-language customer support for foreign residents.
Setting up these basic utilities early ensures you have a comfortable living environment from the beginning. Don’t forget to keep track of your contracts, billing cycles, and any required deposit payments, which are usually refundable when you move out.
3. Internet and Mobile Phone Setup
In today’s connected world, setting up internet and mobile phone services is a top priority after moving to a new country. Whether for work, communication, or daily convenience, having reliable access to the internet and mobile networks is essential from day one.
For home internet, there are several options including fiber-optic (FTTH), cable, and pocket Wi-Fi. Fiber-optic is the fastest and most stable choice, especially for streaming or remote work. Popular providers include NTT FLET’S, SoftBank Hikari, and au Hikari. The setup process typically involves submitting an application, scheduling an installation, and waiting 1–2 weeks for activation. Monthly internet fees range from ¥4,000 to ¥6,000 ($26–$40), and some plans include a router rental or initial installation for free during promotional periods.
If you need immediate access, pocket Wi-Fi is a great temporary solution. It is portable and doesn’t require installation. You can rent one online before your move or at the airport. Monthly rental fees usually range from ¥3,000 to ¥5,000 ($20–$33).
For mobile phone service, you’ll need to choose between major carriers like Docomo, au, and SoftBank, or low-cost MVNOs such as Rakuten Mobile, IIJmio, and UQ Mobile. Plans vary based on data usage, call options, and contract terms. A typical plan with 5–10 GB of data costs around ¥2,000 to ¥4,000 ($13–$26) per month. Major carriers may charge more but often offer better coverage and support.
To register for mobile service, bring your residence card, passport, and a Japanese address. You may also need a bank account or credit card issued in Japan. Some providers now offer English-language websites and customer support, making the process easier for new residents.
SIM-only options are also available if you already have an unlocked phone. These are often cheaper and more flexible, with no long-term contracts. Make sure your phone is compatible with local networks before choosing this route.
Having a functioning internet and mobile connection soon after your move helps you navigate your new life, stay in touch with family, and access essential online services like maps, translation apps, and banking. Be sure to compare plans and coverage before committing, and take advantage of short-term options if you need time to decide.
4. Waste Disposal and Local Community Rules
Understanding how to properly dispose of waste and follow local community rules is a key part of integrating smoothly into your new living environment. Each municipality often has its own strict waste separation and disposal regulations, and failing to follow them can lead to fines or strained relationships with neighbors.
Most areas require garbage to be separated into several categories such as burnable (combustible), non-burnable (non-combustible), recyclable items (like PET bottles, glass, cans), and oversized waste. Some cities also include specific days for the disposal of hazardous materials such as batteries or fluorescent bulbs.
You will typically receive a garbage disposal guide from your local ward or city office upon registering your address. This guide outlines collection days, proper sorting methods, and designated bags that must be used. For example, burnable garbage may be collected twice a week, while recyclables are collected only once a week. Some municipalities sell official garbage bags that must be purchased at convenience stores or supermarkets, often costing around ¥500–¥800 ($3.30–$5.30) per pack.
Large or bulky items, such as furniture or appliances, must usually be disposed of through a reservation-based pickup service. You will need to buy a disposal ticket or sticker (typically ¥300–¥1,000 or $2–$7) and schedule a pickup date with your local office. Improperly discarding such items can result in additional penalties.
Apart from waste management, local community rules might include noise regulations, shared space cleanliness in apartment buildings, and neighborhood participation events. For instance, quiet hours are generally expected during the late evening and early morning, especially in residential complexes. Some communities have voluntary clean-up days or neighborhood watch programs, which are great opportunities to connect with locals.
Respecting these rules not only ensures a cleaner and safer living environment but also helps you build trust and good relationships within your community. If you’re unsure about any local customs, don’t hesitate to ask your landlord, neighbors, or local office staff. Many municipalities now offer English guides or multilingual support for newcomers.
5. Opening a Bank Account and Registering for Health Insurance
After settling into your new home, one of the most important administrative tasks is opening a bank account and registering for health insurance. These two steps are essential for managing your finances and ensuring access to medical services while living abroad.
To open a bank account, visit a local bank branch with the required documents: your passport, residence card, a Japanese address, and in some cases, a personal seal (inkan). Some banks may require you to wait until you’ve lived in Japan for at least six months, but others like Japan Post Bank and online banks such as Sony Bank or Rakuten Bank may be more flexible, especially if you’re a resident with a long-term visa.
When choosing a bank, consider factors such as ATM availability, English-language support, online banking features, and fees. Some accounts have no monthly maintenance fees, while others may charge small amounts if your balance falls below a certain threshold. Many banks also require an initial deposit, typically around ¥1,000–¥3,000 ($6.60–$20), to activate the account.
Having a bank account is necessary for receiving your salary, paying bills through automatic withdrawals, and managing rent payments. Once opened, you will receive a bankbook or card, and can register for internet banking for added convenience.
As for health insurance, all residents are required to enroll in a national health insurance program, either through their employer or the local municipal office. If you are employed full-time, your company will usually handle your enrollment in the Employee Health Insurance system. If not, you must register for the National Health Insurance (NHI) at your city or ward office.
To register for NHI, bring your residence card, passport, and proof of address. Premiums vary based on your income and household size but typically range from ¥15,000 to ¥30,000 ($100–$200) per month for a single person. Once registered, you’ll receive a health insurance card that must be presented whenever you visit a clinic or hospital.
Health insurance covers 70% of medical expenses, meaning you only pay 30% out of pocket for most treatments. This includes doctor visits, prescriptions, and even hospitalization. Without insurance, these costs can be significantly higher, so it is highly recommended to register as soon as possible after moving.
Completing these two processes early not only secures your financial and medical stability but also allows you to smoothly integrate into your new daily life. Many local offices and banks now offer English-language support to help guide you through these procedures.
