When moving to a rental property, many procedures are needed from filing a moving-out notice to updating your driver's license and bank accounts. If you get the order of procedures wrong, the workload multiplies. This article explains all address change procedures before and after moving in an easy-to-understand way.
Reviewed by: Nobuyuki MoriPresident, M-Assets Co., Ltd. / Licensed Real Estate Transaction Specialist (Miyagi #018212)
For those thinking about filing a change of address before moving, we break down the essentials of the 14-day rule under the Basic Resident Register Law and clarify when submitting a change of address before move-in day constitutes false reporting. Experts explain which procedures (like filing at your previous residence, setting up mail forwarding, and arranging utilities) can be done early, and the correct order to do them in.
This article explains the moving procedures for those with a My Number Card. We'll cover address changes when filing your change of address notification, continuous-use procedures, how to use online applications, what happens if you miss deadlines, and more—all with the latest 2026 procedure information.
Comprehensive coverage of address changes not just for your resident registration, but also for pensions, health insurance, driver's license, bank accounts, credit cards, and more. We explain what you must not forget and how to prioritize your tasks.
Once your move is decided, start with procedures at your current (old) address. Ideally, begin about two weeks before your move-in date.
File a notice of moving out at your current municipal office. You can file it up to 14 days before your move, with a deadline of 14 days after moving. When you file the moving-out notice, you'll receive a "certificate of moving out," which is required when submitting your moving-in notice at your new address.
If you have a My Number Card, an increasing number of municipalities allow you to file your moving-out notice online through the My Number Portal. Take advantage of this to save a trip to the office.
What to bring: Photo ID, My Number Card or resident record card (if available)
By registering for Japan Post's "Change of Address and Mail Forwarding Service," mail addressed to your old address will be forwarded to your new address for free for one year. You can apply at a post office window or online (e-Notification of Address Change).
After moving, you'll gradually update your address with various services, and mail forwarding serves as a convenient bridge while you complete those changes. Complete this by one week before your move for peace of mind.
After moving to your new residence, you are required to file a notice of moving in or change of address within 14 days (Resident Register Law Articles 22 and 23). This is a legal obligation, and failure to comply can result in a fine of up to ¥50,000.
| Procedure | Applies to |
|---|---|
| Notice of moving in | When moving from another municipality |
| Change of address | When moving within the same municipality |
For moving in: Bring the "certificate of moving out" issued by your previous municipal office.
For change of address: The certificate of moving out is not needed. Since you're staying within the same municipality, you can complete it in one office visit.
What to bring (notice of moving in): Certificate of moving out, photo ID, My Number Card (if available), personal seal (may not be required depending on the municipality)
A common question from people searching for rental properties is: "Can I change my address to my new address before my move-in date?"
The short answer is: You generally cannot.
Transferring your resident record (moving in or change of address) can only be accepted "after you have actually begun living at the address." Moving your resident record to an address where you're not yet living is not permitted under the Resident Register Law and could constitute false reporting.
However, for exceptional cases like the following, it's recommended to consult with your municipal office:
The correct procedure is to file after you have actually begun living in your new residence (move-in date).
If you have a My Number Card, you must update your address at the same time you file your moving notice. You have 14 days after moving to update the information on your card.
When you present your card at the municipal office window, your new address will be recorded on the back. If you neglect this procedure, your card will retain your old address, which can cause complications with various transactions.
In municipalities that support online filing for moving-out notices, you can complete some procedures via the My Number Portal without visiting the office in person. However, moving-in notices generally require an in-person visit (as of 2026). Since procedures vary by municipality, check in advance.
After completing your moving-in notice, it's time to update your address with private services. Proceed in order of priority.
① Driver's License Update your address at the police station or driver's license center that covers your new address promptly after moving. Bring a copy of your resident record (obtained after your moving-in notice is accepted). The update is free.
② Bank Accounts Update your accounts starting with your main bank. Online banks allow you to update through their app or website. For banks requiring an in-person visit, bring your passbook, photo ID, and proof of your new address (such as your resident record). Prioritize accounts used for salary deposits or bill payments.
③ Notification to Your Employer or School This affects where your salary and documents are sent. Notify your HR or administrative department promptly.
④ Credit Cards You can update through each card company's website, app, or by phone. Change your address within 1-2 weeks after moving so that your statements and bills are sent to your new address.
⑤ Insurance (Life Insurance, Fire Insurance, etc.) Update the address on your insurance policies. Note that fire insurance coverage may change after a move, so contact your insurance company as a priority.
⑥ Utilities and Communication Services Contact your electricity, gas, and water providers one week before moving to arrange disconnection and reconnection. Don't forget to update your address with your internet and mobile phone providers as well.
| Timing | Action |
|---|---|
| 1-2 weeks before moving | File notice of moving out, apply for mail forwarding |
| Move-in date | Set up electricity, gas, water services |
| Within 14 days of move-in | File moving notice, update My Number Card address |
| Shortly after moving notice accepted | Update driver's license and bank accounts |
| Within 1 month of move-in | Update credit cards, insurance, communication services, etc. |
Moving procedures are extensive, but if you understand the basic flow—file moving-out notice → file moving-in notice → obtain resident record → update various services—you can progress smoothly. Create a checklist and address each item carefully to avoid missing anything. For any unclear points, it's best to consult with your municipal office or real estate company.
After moving, you'll need to update your address not just with your resident registration, but also with your bank, credit card company, insurance provider, and various services. We'll explain the checklist and priorities to ensure you don't miss anything.
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