What is a Zairyu Card/Residence Card?

A Zairyu Card/Residence Card (formerly known as an Alien Registration Card) is a form of identification all non-Japanese residents of Japan are required to carry.

Who gets a Zairyu Card?

Anyone who will reside in Japan is granted a residence card except for the following people.

(1) Persons granted permission to stay for 3 months or less

(2) Persons granted "Temporary Visitor" status

(3) Persons granted "Diplomat" or "Official" status

(4) Persons recognized by Ministry of Justice ordinance as equivalent to the foreign nationals in the aforementioned (1) to (3)

(5) Special permanent residents

(6) Persons with no resident status

Unless you apply for naturalisation and gain Japanese citizenship, as a foriegner residing in Japan your Residence Card is required.