Introduction
In today’s modern and interconnected world, identification systems play a crucial role in facilitating administrative processes, ensuring social security, and protecting individual privacy. In Japan, one such system that has garnered significant attention since its introduction in 2015 is the My Number card (マイナンバーカード), officially known as the “Individual Number Card (個人番号カード – kojin bango kado)” or “Juki Card (住基カード – juki kado).” With its unique 12-digit identification number assigned to every resident, the My Number card has become an integral part of Japan’s social security and taxation framework, revolutionizing the way administrative procedures are conducted.
As the debate surrounding the balance between convenience and 1 privacy intensifies, understanding the intricacies of the My Number card becomes essential. We’ll delve into the significance, features, and benefits of the My Number card system in Japan. From the “My Number” card’s purpose and application process to the services it enables and the concerns it raises, we explore the various aspects of this nationally recognized identification card.
Join us on a journey through the realm of the My Number card as we unravel its purpose, examine its impact on administrative processes and social services. We will also address the concerns and considerations that surround this unique system in Japan.
Table of Contents
What is a “My Number” card?
How can I get a “My Number” card?
Do I need a “My Number” card?
What can I do with a “My Number” card?
Can I get money for making one?
How will they handle my personal information?
What is the future for the “My Number” card?
External Links
What is a “My Number” Card?
The “My Number” card, officially known as the “Individual Number Card” or “Juki Card,” is an identification card issued in Japan. It is part of Japan’s social security and taxation system. Introduced in 2015, the “My Number” card contains a unique 12-digit identification number (known as the “My Number”) assigned to each resident of Japan. This includes both Japanese citizens and foreign residents.
Japan’s ” My Number” card is used for various administrative purposes, such as tax-related matters, social security benefits, healthcare services, and other official procedures. It serves as a way to streamline and enhance the efficiency of public services and administrative processes.
The card contains a chip that stores the individual’s name, address, date of birth, gender, and the unique “My Number” (個人番号 – Kojin bango). It is typically issued by local municipal offices to residents who are registered in the Basic Resident Register (住民基本台帳 – Jumin kihon daicho).
It’s important to note that the “My Number” card is a government-issued identification card. It should be handled with care and in compliance with the relevant privacy and security guidelines. (Check the external links for reference.)
How can I get a “My Number” Card?
The process of obtaining Japan’s “My Number” card involves several steps and requires specific eligibility criteria. While it is not overly complicated, it is important to follow the proper procedures. Here is a general overview of the process:
1. Eligibility: You must be a registered resident of Japan, either as a Japanese citizen or a foreign resident with a valid residence card.
2. Application: You need to submit an application form to your local municipal office (ward office or city hall). The application form is typically available at the municipal office or can be downloaded from their official website. You can also apply online. There should be a QR code on the documents from the municipal office.
3. Required Documents: You will need to provide various documents, such as your residence card, proof of address, and proof of identity, and a picture for the card. You can take this with a digital camera, smartphone or at a photo booth. The specific documents required may vary depending on your situation, so check with the municipal office for the exact requirements.
4. Verification and Enrollment: After submitting your application and documents, the municipal office will verify your information and conduct the necessary procedures for issuing the “My Number” card. This process may take time, and you may need to visit the municipal office for verification purposes.
5. Card Issuance: Once the office approves your application, you will receive your “My Number” card by mail. You can also collect it from the office. The card will have your unique 12-digit “My Number” printed on it and will be valid for a certain period of time.
Please note that the process may have specific variations or additional requirements depending on the municipality. It’s recommended to contact your local municipal office or visit their official website for detailed instructions and guidance on obtaining a “My Number” card.
Do I need a “My Number” Card?
The short answer is, yes. If you are a resident of Japan, you will have a number. The “My Number” system was introduced in Japan in 2015. It assigns a unique identification number to every resident of Japan, including foreign residents. The “My Number” card serves as an official identification document and is used for various administrative and financial purposes, such as tax filing, social security benefits, and healthcare services. It is important to have a “My Number” card if you plan to live, work, or engage in official transactions in Japan.
What can I do with a My “Number” Card?
A “My Number” card in Japan serves as an official identification document and enables you to engage in various administrative and financial activities. Here are some of the things you can do with a “My Number” card:
1. Resident Registration: You can use the card for resident registration purposes, verifying your identity and address.
2. Tax Filing: You can use the card for filing taxes, including income tax and local taxes. It simplifies the process by pre-filling some of your information. If you have a tax number (利用者識別番号 – riyosha shiki betsu bango) then applying for e-tax is very easy as the “My Number” card can carry over medical expenses and other tax items automatically.
3. Social Security Benefits: You can use the card to access social security benefits, such as pension payments and healthcare services.
4. Healthcare Services: You can use the card for medical services, including insurance claims and accessing medical records.
5. Opening Bank Accounts: You can use the card to open a bank account in Japan.
6. Official Transactions: Many places accept Japan’s “My Number” card as a valid form of identification for various official transactions, such as applying for a driver’s license, renting an apartment, or applying for government services.
Remote Document Collection: You can use the “My Number” card to collect important documents from convenience stores, so you need not visit the municipal office. Documents available include your proof of address (住民票 – Juuminhyo) and proof of taxation (課税証明書 – Kazei shoumeisho). This is necessary for certain Visa renewals. Please note that this is area dependent. Some areas do not offer this service so please check if this is available in your area.
7. Application for online/remote Visa renewal: As of April 2022 you can apply remotely for a Visa renewal using the “My Number” card. (Check the external links for reference.)
It is worth noting that specific uses and requirements for Japan’s “My Number” card may vary depending on the situation or where you live, so it’s always a good idea to check with the relevant authorities or institutions for precise details.
Can I get money for making a “My Number” card?
If you create a “My Number” card, you are potentially eligible for ¥20,000 worth of points. Campaigns come and go, so look out for it. You can only get the full amount if you complete all tasks listed below. Firstly, you must apply for and receive the “My Number” IC card. Secondly, you must connect a bank account to your “My Number” account. Lastly you must connect your healthcare/insurance card to your “My Number” account. Each task will earn you a portion of the ¥20,000 worth of points. These points may or may not be available depending on when you apply for the card.
What about my personal information? Is it safe?
Yes, concerns regarding privacy and data security have been raised by some individuals regarding Japan’s “My Number” system. The introduction of the official IC chip “My Number” card raised concerns about the potential misuse or unauthorized access to personal information. Such concerns are not uncommon when implementing large-scale identification systems that involve the collection and storage of personal data.
To address these concerns, the Japanese government has implemented various measures to safeguard the privacy and security of personal information under their “My Number” card system. These measures include strict regulations on data handling, encryption of personal data, and limitations on the purposes for which the “My Number” card information can be used.
It’s important to note that privacy and data protection are ongoing concerns. Governments continuously work to address them while balancing the need for efficient administration and service delivery. If you have specific concerns or questions about the privacy aspects of the “My Number” system, it is advisable to consult official government sources or seek legal advice for detailed information.
What is the future of the “My Number” card?
As of May 2023, we can merge our “My Number” cards with our smartphones. This makes it possible for us to access our accounts without having to use the password each time. Instead, we can use our phones’ Touch ID or Face ID.
The government’s plan is to eventually transition the health insurance card and driver’s license over to all be on Japan’s “My Number” card. The current plan is to merge the health insurance card by autumn 2024, and there is a plan to merge the zairyu card with the “My Number” card by 2025.
As of June 2023, there is discussion about making a numberless “My Number” card. This will increase security as the current cards have the number printed directly onto the card.
External Links
Introduction to the “My Number” card (Japanese):
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/news/special/news_seminar/jiji/jiji138/
Links supporting “My Number” cards and residence card renewal:
https://www.moj.go.jp/isa/content/001368949.pdf
https://covid19.supportnavi.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/service/0bt30w-aGwgk0VkbfJn-Lg#:~:text=%E4%BB%A4%E5%92%8C4%E5%B9%B43,%E3%81%8C%E5%8F%AF%E8%83%BD%E3%81%A8%E3%81%AA%E3%82%8A%E3%81%BE%E3%81%97%E3%81%9F%E3%80%82
https://www.moj.go.jp/isa/applications/guide/onlineshinsei.html
Other Articles from The Tokyo Life:
Moving House in Japan? Click here.
Childcare in Japan for Foreign Residents: Click here.
Need help with figuring out living in Tokyo? Our Tokyo 101 guides take the stress out of navigating life in Japan.
Picture Attributions:
Featured image – Photo by Claire Abdo on Unsplash
Clinic – Photo by Benyamin Bohlouli on Unsplash
Passport and Visas – Photo by Agus Dietrich on Unsplash
