Things to do before move-in
If you are currently renting an apartment in Japan, notify the landlord (ohya) or management company that you are moving out by the date specified in the contract.
In most cases, one-month advance notice is required.
Notify your change of address to the following:
- Power company, gas company, and waterwork
- Internet provider, and NHK (if you have TV)
- Post Office
- Banks, credit card companies, and mobile phone companies
Submit a “notification of moving out” to the local municipal office of the town where you live and receive a “certificate of moving out”.
You can submit a moving-out notification 14 days before moving out.
If you have a National Health Insurance card or Seal Registration card, you will return them.
What to do after move-in
Open accounts for utility services such as electricity, gas, and water.
Submit a "moving-in notification" to the local municipal office of the new town within 14 days after moving.
You need to bring your moving-out certificate and resident card for this procedure.
You will need to go through the procedures to get a new National Health Insurance card and Seal Registration card If you returned them to the previous municipal office.
Notify your change of address to your local police station or driver's license renewal center If you have a driver's license for automobile or motorcycle.
When a child changes school due to moving
If you have a child in elementary school or junior high school, inform the school that your child is currently attending that he/she will transfer school, and obtain a "Certificate of Enrollment" and “Salary Certificate for Textbook " from the school.
Show your "Certificate of Enrollment" to the municipal office to receive a "Transfer Notification" when you submit a notification of moving in.
Submit a "Certificate of Enrollment", "Salary Certificate Textbook " and "Transfer Notification" to the new school.
This is the end of the procedure.
