If a mid- to long-term resident loses their residence card, or it is stolen or destroyed, they apply for a new card within 14 days of finding out. If you were abroad when you found out, the 14 days start on the day you next enter Japan.[1] The application is called the application for reissuance of a residence card (在留カードの再交付申請).
First, report a lost or stolen card to the police
For a lost or stolen card, the application includes a written statement about the loss. You report it to the police first, because the statement needs the report's acceptance number (受理番号).[1]
Depending on the case, the office may also ask for a certificate of the police report.[1]
If the card was destroyed in a disaster, the office asks for a disaster certificate (り災証明書) or a similar document instead.[1]
Where and when
You apply at the regional immigration office that covers your address. Applications are taken on weekdays, from 9 a.m. to 12 noon and from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.[1]
As a rule, the new card is issued on the same day.[1]
What to bring
The agency's page lists the following.[1]
| Item | Notes |
|---|---|
| Application form | Download from the agency's page |
| Photo | One photo that meets the agency's photo standard |
| Statement about the loss | For a lost or stolen card, with the police acceptance number |
| Passport | Or a certificate of status of residence |
| Permission to engage in activity other than that permitted | Only if you hold one |
| Fee | None |
Cards issued on or after 14 June 2026 need a photo for everyone aged 1 or older. Only children under 1 on the day the card is issued are exempt.[1]
If 14 days have already passed
You can still apply. The agency asks for an extra document that explains the reason for the delay.[1]
When someone else goes for you
Residents under 16 do not apply themselves.[1]
A relative aged 16 or older who lives with you can apply for you if you are under 16, or if illness or another reason keeps you from going in person. For illness, the agency asks for a medical certificate or similar. Being busy at work or school does not count as such a reason.[1]
A relative aged 16 or older who lives with you can also apply because you asked them to. In that case the agency asks them to bring a letter of authorisation (委任状).[1]
Keep track of the date
The deadline runs from the day you notice the card is gone, so it is easy to lose days. Find your procedure in Clerfy and it adds the reissue application with its deadline and the documents to prepare.