Resident code for foreign residents in the basic resident register network

The resident code notice

• Foreign residents on the resident register in 2013 received a resident code notice by mail. The ward has sent one to each foreign resident who registered for the first time after entering Japan.
• The notice cannot be reissued. Keep it safe.
• Receiving the notice does not require any procedure.

What the resident code is

• An 11-digit number, assigned at random so that no two people have the same code
• You can have it changed, but you cannot choose the number
• Some administrative forms ask you to write it

Moving to another city

The resident code stays the same when you move to another city, ward or town. Keep the notice after the move as well.

Basic resident register network

The basic resident register network links the basic resident registers of all cities, wards and towns with the prefectures and a designated information processing agency, over a dedicated line. Foreign residents are covered, like Japanese residents, since 2013. The information sent covers the usual name, date of birth, sex, address and resident code.

Services that use the network

• Some national procedures, such as a new passport application, a veterans' pension status report or a construction technical test, can skip submitting a copy of the resident record when the network confirms the information.
• At the counter of any city, ward or town, showing a government-issued photo ID lets you get a copy of your own resident record or that of a member of your household.