All new foreign residents to Japan (residents, not visitors) are issued with a residence card upon entering Japan at the airport. It's an important document that must be carried with you at all times in lieu of your passport. The card contains personal information such as name, current address, the status of residency and period of stay. It's required to do many important things in Japan, such as opening a bank account, obtaining a cell phone or converting your driver’s license into a Japanese one. The card's period of validity is the same length as your visa.

Make sure your card is always accurate and up to date! If you move, you'll have to go to your local city hall to register your change of address. Likewise, if you change jobs you’ll need to update your card as soon as possible as well.

While not directly related to your visa, your "My Number" is an important part of being able to work in Japan.

First issued in October 2015, the Individual Number, nicknamed "My Number," represents an effort to manage the copious amount of data on people living in the country. It's a 12-digit number that, theoretically, should stay with each resident for life. This number is similar to the Social Security number in the U.S. and the National Insurance number in the U.K., and ties together your social insurance, taxes, etc. While the My Number program is presently not compulsory, many employers will ask you to provide the number when you start a job.

You can apply to get your Individual Number Card at your local municipal office. For more information, check the Cabinet Secretariat’s website below.