Studera utomlands

Other than the pre-departure process, here’s some more information about what you have to fix and where to fix it once you arrive in Tokyo.

Residence/Zairyu card (Airport)

When you’re exiting the airport, you’ll receive your residence card at the immigration counter. You show them your passport like usual, and they’ll print it out there for you. You’ll need it for official paperwork and should always be kept on you.

SIM card (Airport)

I used the mobile company Mobal. It has a long-term SIM option for those of us staying for more than three months. Unlike some other tourist data-only plans, this one provides you with a Japanese phone number you can use for official things as well.

It’s a good idea to get a Japanese phone number since your accommodation, the university and the city office during your move-in notification ask for it. You might be alright without one, but it would be less convenient.

You can order the SIM card beforehand, or instant pick up at the airport (Haneda or Narita). Once ordered, you can collect it at the counter. Activation takes a few minutes, then it’s ready to be used!

SUICA/PASMO Card (Airport)

For public transportation, people usually use an IC card called Suica or Pasmo. You can buy them at the airport (500 yen). They can be topped up at any metro station. You pay for your trips by tapping every time you enter and exit the station through the metro gates or buses. You can also use this as payment in several stores as well. (Apple users can use Suica through the Apple Wallet.)

Address Registration / Move-in Notification (City Office)

Once you have moved into your accommodation, you must submit a move-in notification within the first 2 weeks you arrive at your nearest city office. For me, it was the Bunkyo City Office (2nd floor). It’s a really important step, and the accommodation and university will also let you know. So, just follow their instructions. They’ll then print your address on the back of your residence card.

National Health Insurance (City Office)

When you’re at the office, you also have to sign up for the mandatory national health insurance. You will be told by the address registration counter where to go, where you fill out more paperwork and wait for them to print another card for you. Once you have registered, you’ll get an invoice by mail that you can pay monthly at a convenience store. It’s about 2500 yen (SEK 170), so not too expensive 😊.

Get your student card from the graduate school (University)

Once you’ve arrived, you should also visit your graduate school to receive your student card. All you need is your residence card to show them who you are.

This is quite a few things to settle, but I managed to do it all within a week of arriving. If you have questions, you can always ask the accommodation for help! Their reception is open every day.

Here is a quick look at Tokyo Tower and some more food as motivation~ Ramen might have become my favourite food here now. 😆 (Picture by: Yi Cheng Chng)

Introductory Image: Blooming Azaleas in Nezu Shrine by the University of Tokyo. (Picture by: Yi Cheng Chng).