- March 1, 2026
- BELONGING JAPAN
Tenshutsu todoke (Moving-out Notification) is the essential first step you must take when moving to a new city or leaving Japan. While handling paperwork in a new country can feel overwhelming, keeping your residency records up to date is the best way to ensure a smooth, stress-free life in Japan. Whether you are moving for a new job, school, or a change of scenery, let’s learn together how to handle this process quickly and correctly!
Table of Contents
Chapter 1: What is a Tenshutsu-todoke?
Tenshutsu todoke (Moving-out Notification) is the most important bit of paperwork you’ll need if you are planning to move to a new city or leave Japan entirely. In Japan, your address is the “anchor” for your legal status, health insurance, and pension. Filing a Tenshutsu todoke ensures your residency record is correctly closed in your old city so you can register at your new home. It is an official document you submit to your current city or ward office to notify them that you are moving away.
| English | Kanji | Romaji |
|---|---|---|
|
Moving-out Notification |
転出届 |
Tenshutsu todoke |
1-1: Why is it mandatory?
Without filing this notice, you cannot complete your “Moving-in Notification” (Tennyu todoke) at your new location. It is a legal requirement for all residents, including foreign nationals. If you don’t update your address, you may face issues with your health insurance, encounter trouble renewing your visa, or continue to be billed for local taxes at your old address.
Chapter 2: The Three Types of Moving Notifications
When moving in Japan, you will encounter three different terms: Tenshutsu todoke, Tennyu todoke, and Tenkyo todoke. Because these words sound so similar, it can be quite confusing to know which one you need. To help you stay on track, let’s learn together the differences between these three notifications:
| Document | Kanji | When to Use | Where to File |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Tenshutsu todoke |
転出届 |
Moving to a different city or leaving Japan |
Your current city/ward office |
|
Tennyu todoke |
転入届 |
Registering at your new home |
Your new city/ward office |
|
Tenkyo todoke |
転居届 |
Moving within the same city or ward |
Your local city/ward office |
2-1: The Step-by-Step Process
Scenario 1: Moving to a Different City/Ward
Moving to a new municipality requires a two-step process. Think of it as “checking out” of your old city and “checking in” to your new one. You do not need to bring your own forms; all necessary documents are provided at the city office.
At your OLD Office (The “Check-out”): Submit a Tenshutsu-todoke (Moving-out Notification). Once processed, the office will issue you a physical document called a Tenshutsu Shomeisho (Moving-out Certificate).
At your NEW Office (The “Check-in”): Within 14 days of moving, visit your new city/ward office to file a Tennyu-todoke (Moving-in Notification). You must bring the physical Tenshutsu Shomeisho you received from your previous office to complete this step.
Scenario 2: Moving within the Same City/Ward
At your Local Office: Simply submit a Tenkyo-todoke (Change of Address) to update your records. No “Moving-out Certificate” is required.
Chapter 3: How to File Your Tenshutsu-todoke
1. Timing
You can file this from 14 days before your move to 14 days after moving.
2. What to Bring (Identity Verification)
When you visit the counter, the staff will verify your identity. Please bring the following:
Option A: One piece of photo ID (Recommended)
Residence Card (Zairyu Card)
My Number Card
Driver’s License
Passport
Option B: Two or more documents (If you don’t have a photo ID)
Health Insurance Card
National Pension Book
Long-term Care Insurance Card
3. Where to Go
Visit the “Resident Registration” (Jumin-hyo) or “Civic Affairs” (Shimin-ka) counter at your local city or ward office.
Digital Shortcut: Many cities now allow you to file the Tenshutsu-todoke online via the Myna Portal app if you have a My Number Card. This saves you a trip to your old office!
Chapter 4: FAQ
Q1: What happens if I forget to file my Tenshutsu-todoke within 14 days? A: Legally, you are required to file within 14 days. While many offices are understanding if you are slightly late, extreme delays could theoretically lead to a fine (過料, karyo). More importantly, you won’t be able to register at your new home or update your health insurance until it’s done.
Q2: Can I file a Tenshutsu-todoke after I have already moved? A: Yes, you can. However, if you have already moved far away, you will need to do it by mail or via the Myna Portal app. It is much easier to do it in person at your old city office before you leave.
Q3: Do I need to pay any fees to get a Moving-out Certificate? A: No, filing a Tenshutsu-todoke and receiving the Tenshutsu Shomeisho (Moving-out Certificate) is free of charge.
Q4: I am moving back to my home country. Do I still need to do this? A: Yes! Filing a Tenshutsu-todoke for “moving abroad” is crucial. It officially stops your National Health Insurance premiums and tells the government you are no longer a resident for tax purposes.
Chapter 5: Summary
Moving can be hectic, but remember: the Tenshutsu-todoke is the key that unlocks your new life in a different city. Here is a quick recap of what we’ve learned:
What it is: A mandatory notification to your current city office that you are moving out.
Why it matters: It is required to get your “Moving-out Certificate,” which you need to register at your new home.
Timing: File it between 14 days before and 14 days after your move.
What to bring: Always carry your Residence Card or My Number Card.
The Shortcut: If you have a My Number Card, use the Myna Portal app to skip the trip to your old city office.
