What to do if your Residence Card is lost

Losing your residence card in Japan can quickly escalate into a complicated issue, impacting not just your legal status, but also your daily life. As a foreign resident, your residence card is more than just a piece of identification; it’s your proof of legal status and a required document to carry at all times. Failing to properly follow the procedures for reissuance can lead to fines, deportation, or even imprisonment. In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about what to do if your residence card is lost or stolen, how to report it, and how to navigate the reissuance process.

Steps to Take If Your Residence Card is Lost or Stolen

Losing your residence card can be stressful, but knowing the right steps to take will help you manage the situation more effectively. Below, we’ll cover the necessary procedures to ensure a smooth and legal transition back to carrying your new residence card.

Reporting Lost or Stolen Residence Cards to Authorities

The first step to take when you realize that your residence card is missing is to report the loss or theft to the nearest police station or koban (a smaller police outpost). It’s crucial to report this as soon as possible, as delays may complicate the reissuance process and could be seen as negligence.

1. Visit the nearest police station or koban: If you’re in an urban area, try to go to the nearest koban. They are more convenient and less crowded than a full-sized police station, making the process quicker. Use Google Maps or this directory of kobans in the Tokyo metropolitan area to find your nearest one.
2. Fill out a "Report of Lost Articles" or "Report of Stolen Property" form: Once at the police station, you’ll need to fill out this report in detail. If you lost your card, they will issue you a loss notification certificate. If your card was stolen, you’ll receive a theft report certificate. Be sure to ask the officer for a “遺失物届受理証明書” (Certificate of Acceptance of Lost Property Report) or a similar document, as you will need this for your reissuance application.
3. Retain the report certificate: The certificate you receive from the police acts as proof that you reported your residence card missing. Keep it safe, as you’ll need to present it when applying for a new residence card at the Immigration Bureau.

Reapplying for Your Residence Card in Japan

Once you have reported the loss or theft to the police and received your report certificate, the next step is to apply for a reissuance of your residence card at the Immigration Bureau. It is essential to do this within 14 days of discovering the loss or theft. If you are abroad at the time of loss, you must apply on the day you re-enter Japan.

1. Locate your local Immigration Bureau: You will need to visit the Immigration Bureau that controls the area where you live. The main office in Tokyo can be found here.
2. Submit the necessary documents: Bring the certificate you received from the police, your passport, and the required ID photo. Complete the “Application for Reissuance of a Residence Card” form, which can be found on the Immigration Bureau’s official website.
3. Receive your new residence card: Depending on the season, it may take some time for your new card to be issued. During the busy hiring seasons between March and June, it’s advisable to get this done as soon as possible to avoid delays.

Required Documents for Residence Card Reissuance

When applying for a new residence card, be sure to have the following documents ready:

• Certificate of loss or theft report from the police.
• Passport (original) for identity verification.
• Application form: You can download the form from the Immigration Bureau website.
• ID photo: 4 cm x 3 cm, taken within three months prior to the date of application. Make sure the photo meets the Immigration Bureau’s guidelines.

If you are unable to provide a certificate of loss or theft, you will need to submit a document detailing the reasons why you couldn’t obtain one.

Timeline and Fees for Residence Card Reissuance

The application for reissuance is free of charge in most cases (e.g., loss, theft, or damage). However, if you’re applying for a new residence card due to reasons such as optional renewal, there is a ¥1,600 fee to be paid in revenue stamps (shunyu inshi). These stamps can be purchased at post offices and convenience stores.

Typically, the process can be completed on the same day if you visit during off-peak hours. However, delays can occur, especially during peak seasons like March-June, so plan accordingly.

Handling Lost Property in Japan

Japan is known for its efficient and honest lost property system. From umbrellas to mobile phones, most items have a high likelihood of being returned if reported missing. Below is a guide on what to do if you lose any property in Japan.

How to Report Lost Property in Japan

1. Visit a koban or police station: Report your lost property at the nearest koban or full-service police station. If the item is found, you’ll be notified. They will keep your report on file for several months.
2. Check with the facility where you lost it: If you lost your item in a public space (e.g., park, shopping center), check with the facility’s lost and found department. Items lost in such places are often reported there first.
3. Report the loss immediately: Most lost items, including important documents like your residence card, should be reported immediately to avoid misuse or loss of legal standing.

What to Do If You Lose Property on Public Transport

1. Visit the “Wasuremono Center” (Lost & Found Center): Major train stations and public transport hubs have lost and found centers where you can report missing items. Bring a detailed description and, if possible, a photo of the item.
2. Contact the taxi company: If you lost your item in a taxi, call the company using the contact number on your receipt. Most items left behind in taxis are returned to the company’s lost and found center within a few days.
3. Use online resources: Some cities offer online lost and found services for reporting and searching for lost property.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lost Property in Japan

• Can I contact lost property counters in English?
  Most counters do not officially handle English inquiries, but some staff may speak English. If you’re not confident in your Japanese, bring a friend or translator, or visit in person.
• How long will my lost property be held?
  Trains and taxis generally keep lost items for three days before sending them to the police. The police will then hold the item for up to three months.
• Can my lost item be mailed to me?
  Some facilities will allow lost items to be mailed, but you’ll need to provide accurate identification of the item. If you’re not in the same city, try to contact them directly for more information.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Lost Residence Cards and Property in Japan

1. What happens if I don’t report my lost residence card?
Failure to report and reapply for your residence card can lead to fines, deportation, or even imprisonment. Always report the loss immediately and begin the reissuance process within 14 days.

2. Can I still work if I lost my residence card?
Yes, as long as you have reported the loss and have a certificate from the police, you can legally continue working while waiting for your new card.

3. How can I avoid losing my residence card again?
Always keep your residence card in a secure place, such as a wallet or a dedicated ID holder. Check daily to ensure you have it with you.

4. Can I reapply for a residence card from abroad?
No, you must be in Japan to apply for reissuance of your residence card. If you lost it abroad, report the loss immediately upon re-entering Japan.

5. Can I still travel within Japan if I lost my residence card?
Yes, but it’s advisable to carry your loss certificate and passport at all times until your new card is issued.

By understanding the steps to take when losing your residence card or other property, you can avoid significant legal and personal hassles while living in Japan. Be sure to follow these guidelines carefully and always keep track of your important documents.