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Guides · Japan

National ID card renewal in Japan

Written from published rules on 26 August 2026. Not monitored for changes since. A starting point, not official advice — confirm anything that matters with 市区町村 (Shikuchōson - Municipal Offices) in Japan, under the supervision of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (総務省 - Sōmu-shō).

Renewing a Japan National ID card, also known as a My Number Card, primarily involves applying to the local municipal office before the card's expiration date. The process requires submitting an application, often online or by mail, and then collecting the new card in person at the local government office.

Your timing

It is generally recommended to start the renewal process several months before the card's expiration date. This allows sufficient time for processing, which can take approximately one to two months, and accounts for potential appointment waiting times at the municipal office for card collection.

Start 60 days ahead

This accounts for the typical processing time of the application and the scheduling of an appointment for card collection.

The process

  1. 1Receive an expiration notification by mail from the local municipal office, typically a few months before the card expires.
  2. 2Choose an application method: online via smartphone or computer, by mail, or at a designated application support center.
  3. 3Complete the application form and attach a recent photograph according to specifications.
  4. 4Submit the application through the chosen method (online, mail, or in person at certain locations).
  5. 5Wait for a 'My Number Card Grant Notice' (交付通知書 - kōfu tsūchisho) to be sent to the registered address, indicating the new card is ready for collection.
  6. 6Book an appointment (if required by the local office) and visit the municipal office with necessary documents to collect the new card and set or reset PINs.

What to bring

  • Current My Number Card (for identity verification and return upon collection of new card)
  • My Number Card Grant Notice (交付通知書 - kōfu tsūchisho)
  • Identity verification documents (e.g., driver's license, passport, health insurance card) if the current My Number Card cannot be used for verification
  • Application form (if applying by mail or in person)
  • Recent passport-style photograph (if applying by mail or in person)

Who handles it

市区町村 (Shikuchōson - Municipal Offices) in Japan, under the supervision of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (総務省 - Sōmu-shō)

https://www.kojinbango-card.go.jp/kofushinse/

There is generally no fee for renewing a My Number Card if the renewal is due to expiration. A fee may apply if the card is lost or damaged and needs reissuance before its expiration.

What commonly goes wrong

  • Ensure the photograph submitted meets the specified requirements (e.g., plain background, no hat, clear face) to avoid rejection.
  • Verify the expiration date of both the My Number Card itself and the electronic certificate (PINs) it contains, as these may have different validity periods.
  • Be aware that card collection typically requires an in-person visit to the municipal office by the cardholder, and specific identity verification documents are needed.
  • Check the specific procedures and appointment requirements of your local municipal office, as these can vary slightly.

Sources

Other documents in Japan

National ID card renewal in other countries

Often renewed together

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