日本人の配偶者等 Part 4: What Happens After Approval and Important Steps for Managing Your Residence Card

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Once your application for the "Spouse or Child of Japanese National" residency status is approved, there are several essential steps and rules to follow. This article outlines the post-approval process and important considerations for managing your residence card.

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1. Receiving the Approval Notice

A. Issuance of the Certificate of Eligibility (COE)

After approval, you will receive a Certificate of Eligibility (COE), which is required for entering Japan.

• How to Receive It:
  The certificate is either mailed to you or can be picked up at the Immigration Services Agency.
• Validity:
  The COE is valid for 3 months. You must enter Japan within this period.

B. Entering Japan with the COE

Bring your Certificate of Eligibility to Japan and present it at the airport or port for immigration inspection.

• Required Documents:
  • Certificate of Eligibility
  • Passport
  • Any other documents requested by the immigration officer

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2. Receiving Your Residence Card

A. What is a Residence Card?

A residence card is an essential identification document for medium- to long-term foreign residents in Japan. It includes details about your residency status and period of stay.

B. How to Receive the Residence Card:

• At the airport:
  If you enter Japan through major airports (Narita, Haneda, Kansai, or Chubu), you will receive your residence card upon arrival.
• Later at the municipal office:
  If you enter through a smaller airport, you will need to register at the local municipal office to obtain your residence card.

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3. Important Procedures After Receiving Your Residence Card

A. Register Your Address

Within 14 days of arrival in Japan, you must register your address at the local municipal office.

• Required Documents:
  • Residence card
  • Passport
• Obtaining a My Number:
  After registration, you will be issued a My Number, which is necessary for various administrative processes.

B. Report Any Changes Promptly

You must notify the relevant authorities if any of the following changes occur:

• Address Change: Notify your local municipal office within 14 days.
• Name or Nationality Change: Report to the Immigration Services Agency.

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4. Validity Period and Renewal of the Residence Card

A. Check the Validity Period

Your residence card has an expiration date. Be sure to apply for renewal before it expires.

• When to Apply for Renewal:
  You can apply for renewal up to three months before the expiration date.

B. Renewal Process:

1. Prepare the Required Documents:
   • Renewal application form
   • Current residence card
   • Documents such as income certificates and marriage certificates
2. Submit to the Immigration Services Agency:
   After reviewing your application, a new residence card will be issued upon approval.

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5. Important Rules and Responsibilities During Your Stay

A. Engage in Appropriate Activities

Even with the “Spouse or Child of Japanese National” residency status, engaging in activities that violate your status (e.g., fraudulent marriages) can result in revocation of your residency status.

B. Maintain Good Conduct

• Obey Japanese laws:
  Violating the law can lead to deportation or a ban on re-entering Japan.
• Fulfill reporting obligations:
  Ensure you comply with any reporting requirements from the Immigration Services Agency.

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Next Topic Preview

In the next article, we will discuss "Residency Status Renewal and Steps Toward Permanent Residency." Learn about the requirements and process for obtaining permanent residency in Japan.

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After obtaining your residency status, following the proper procedures and adhering to the rules will ensure a smooth and enjoyable life in Japan!