![Japan’s Specified Residence Card Applications Open June 15 — Residence Card & My Number Integration: What to Bring [June 2026]](https://media.yolo-japan.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/tokutei-zairyu-card-start-0614-en.webp)
Last Updated: 2026-06-10
Introduction
It’s four days away. Japan’s new tokutei zairyu kado (特定在留カード, Specified Residence Card), which combines your residence card and My Number Card into a single document, officially launches on Sunday, June 14, 2026.
(Source: Immigration Services Agency — Specified Residence Card)
However, since June 14 falls on a Sunday, immigration offices will be closed that day. Actual applications won’t be accepted until Monday, June 15. If you were planning to go this weekend, hold off until next week.
This article covers what’s happening this week. For a deeper look at whether you should apply, the pros and cons, and the full procedure, see the detailed guides linked below.
TL;DR
- The Specified Residence Card system launches June 14 (Sunday)
- Applications accepted from June 15 (Monday) at immigration offices
- Enrollment is voluntary — not required
- Issuance takes approximately 10 days longer than a standard residence card
- For whether to apply and step-by-step instructions, see the guides linked below
Disclaimer: Based on official announcements from Japan’s Immigration Services Agency as of June 2026. Check with your local immigration office for the latest details.
This Week at a Glance
| Date | What Happens |
|---|---|
| June 14 (Sun) | System officially goes live (offices closed) |
| June 15 (Mon) | Applications accepted at regional immigration bureaus and municipal offices |
| After applying | Expect about 10 extra days vs. standard residence card issuance |
Getting the Specified Residence Card is voluntary. You can continue carrying your residence card and My Number Card as two separate cards with no issues.
What to Bring When You Apply
If you decide to apply starting June 15, bring the following to your nearest regional immigration bureau or municipal office:
- Specified Residence Card Application Form
- PIN Setting Request Form
- 1 photograph (per specification)
- Your current residence card
- Your current My Number Card
Before heading out, check your local office’s wait times by phone or on their website. Demand may be high in the first few days.
Should You Apply? See the Detailed Guides
Whether the Specified Residence Card makes sense for you depends on your situation. We’ve covered the decision in detail in these guides:
- Pros, cons, and who should apply → Specified Residence Card: Should You Get One? A Case-by-Case Breakdown
- Is it mandatory or optional? → Is the Specified Residence Card Required? The Legal Answer, Clearly Explained
- Full procedure and documents → Japan’s Residence Card and My Number Card Are Merging: What You Need to Know
FAQ
Q. Can I apply on June 14?
A. No — June 14 is a Sunday, so immigration offices will be closed. Applications start on Monday, June 15.
Q. Does not applying affect my residence status?
A. No. Enrollment is voluntary. Your existing residence card and My Number Card remain valid.
Q. How long does it take to receive the card after applying?
A. The ISA has indicated it takes approximately 10 days longer than a standard residence card issuance. Plan accordingly.
Q. I don’t have a My Number Card yet. Can I still apply?
A. Both your residence card and My Number Card are required to apply. If you haven’t gotten your My Number Card yet, you’ll need to apply for that first.
Key Takeaways
- ✅ Offices are closed this weekend (June 14). If you want to apply, head to a window from June 15 (Monday)
- ✅ Still undecided? No rush. Check the pros and cons guide before deciding — you have plenty of time
- ✅ Once you’ve decided, bring your residence card, My Number Card, and a photo before heading to the office
- ✅ Issuance takes about 10 extra days. Build that into your schedule when planning your application
If you’re still undecided, there’s no urgency. Many people will wait for their next visa renewal to consider switching. Check the detailed guides above if you want to make an informed decision before heading to the office.
