Introduction

For foreign nationals living in Japan, proper management of the Residence Card is extremely important. In particular, when moving to a new address, it is essential to promptly submit a notification of address change. But what happens if you forget to complete this procedure? This article explains the risks, especially for those aiming to apply for “Permanent Residence,” and provides detailed countermeasures.

Legal Obligation and Deadline for Address Change Notification

Mid- to long-term residents holding a Residence Card are legally required to submit a notification of address change (notification of moving-in or moving-within the same municipality) at the municipal office within 14 days of determining a new residence or moving. This procedure is completed by presenting the Residence Card together with the resident registration process.

Penalties and Administrative Disadvantages for Delayed Notification

If you fail to submit the notification within 14 days without a valid reason, you may be fined up to 200,000 yen. Furthermore, if you neglect to submit the notification for more than 90 days, your status of residence may be revoked. There is also a risk of being fined up to 50,000 yen for violating the Basic Resident Registration Act.

Specific Impact on Permanent Residency Applications

In permanent residence applications, past compliance with residency management obligations is strictly reviewed. If you have not submitted the address change notification within the deadline, it may be judged that you have not cooperated with proper residency management, which can negatively affect your application. In some cases, the application may even be denied.

For example, if you have a history of failing to submit the notification, you will need to explain the reasons and circumstances in detail when applying for permanent residence. Unless a valid reason (such as long-term hospitalization or being a victim of domestic violence) is recognized, it will generally be treated unfavorably.

Case Example

Mr. A (in his 30s, company employee) moved from Tokyo to Kanagawa Prefecture due to a job change. However, he forgot to submit the address change notification due to his busy schedule and completed the procedure more than a month later. When he later applied for permanent residence, he was asked by the immigration office to explain the delay. Mr. A sincerely explained the circumstances, expressed remorse, and submitted preventive measures for the future. As a result, he was ultimately granted permission, but the screening process took longer than usual.

Countermeasures if Delay is Discovered

Even if you miss the deadline, it is important to complete the procedure as soon as possible. If you submit the notification voluntarily before being instructed by the immigration office, it may be treated as “complied with,” and the negative evaluation in the screening may be reduced. When applying for permanent residence, you will need to explain the reason for the delay, your remorse, and specific measures to prevent recurrence.

If There Is a Valid Reason

If there are unavoidable circumstances such as illness, accident, or being a victim of domestic violence that caused the delay, you can reduce the risk of revocation or denial by submitting supporting documents (such as medical certificates or consultation records) and explaining the situation.

Conclusion

You must submit the Residence Card address change notification within 14 days of moving. Delays or failure to submit not only carry the risk of fines and revocation of status of residence but also have a significant impact on permanent residence applications. If you are late, complete the procedure promptly and provide a sincere explanation when applying for permanent residence. Observing your residency management obligations is the first step toward a stable life in Japan and successful acquisition of permanent residency.