7. Possible Disadvantages to Consider

Although the Specified Residence Card offers greater convenience for some foreign residents, it may not be the best choice for everyone.

Before deciding whether to obtain one, it is worth considering the possible disadvantages as well.

Possible considerations include:

• losing one card means temporarily losing access to both Residence Card and My Number Card functions;
• replacement procedures may become more complicated if the integrated card is lost;
• some people prefer to keep immigration documents separate from other forms of identification; and
• certain private organizations may need time to become familiar with the new system.

Whether these points become significant depends largely on each individual's circumstances and how frequently they use My Number-related services.

8. What Happens If You Lose the Card?

One practical question frequently asked is:

"What happens if I lose my Specified Residence Card?"

Because the integrated card performs the functions of both the Residence Card and the My Number Card, losing it may affect multiple administrative procedures at the same time.

For this reason, cardholders should report the loss promptly and follow the procedures required by the relevant authorities.

This does not necessarily mean that obtaining the integrated card is risky. However, it is one practical point that should be considered before deciding whether the integrated system is suitable.

9. Who May Benefit From the Specified Residence Card?

The integrated card may be particularly useful for people who:

• regularly use My Number services;
• prefer carrying fewer cards;
• frequently complete administrative procedures in Japan;
• actively use digital government services; or
• prefer having one integrated identification card.

For these individuals, combining both functions into a single card may simplify everyday administrative procedures.

10. Who May Prefer to Keep Separate Cards?

On the other hand, some foreign residents may prefer not to integrate the two cards.

For example:

• people who rarely use My Number services;
• those who prefer separating immigration documents from personal identification;
• people concerned about losing both functions at the same time; and
• those who are satisfied with the current Residence Card system.

Because the system is optional, there is no single correct choice for every foreign resident.

The better option depends on how each person uses government services in daily life.

11. Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to replace my current Residence Card?

No. Current Residence Cards generally remain valid until their expiration date unless a new card is issued for another reason.

Can I continue using separate cards?

Yes. The integrated card is generally optional, and many foreign residents may continue using separate cards.

Will my immigration status change if I obtain the Specified Residence Card?

No. The integrated card changes the form of the card, not your immigration status or the legal conditions attached to your Status of Residence.

Will immigration procedures become easier?

Depending on the procedure, some administrative processes may become simpler because Residence Card information and My Number functions are integrated.

Should everyone obtain one?

Not necessarily. Whether obtaining a Specified Residence Card is beneficial depends on each individual's circumstances and preferences.

12. Practical Considerations Before Applying

Rather than asking whether the Specified Residence Card is "better," it may be more useful to ask:

"Will this system actually make my own administrative procedures easier?"

For some people, the answer will clearly be yes.

For others, continuing to use separate cards may remain the more practical choice.

Because the system is optional, there is generally time to consider which option best fits your own circumstances.

Conclusion

The introduction of Japan's Specified Residence Card represents another step in the digitalization of immigration and administrative procedures.

However, the introduction of a new system does not necessarily mean that everyone should immediately adopt it.

Some foreign residents may benefit from greater convenience through an integrated card. Others may reasonably decide that continuing with separate cards better suits their own circumstances.

The important question is not simply:

"Can I obtain the Specified Residence Card?"

but:

"Does obtaining it make practical sense for my own situation?"

Understanding both the advantages and the possible disadvantages will help foreign residents make informed decisions as Japan's immigration system continues to evolve.