What to Do After Moving In — and Before Moving Out
When you move into a new home in Japan, you may receive some mail from the post office that looks official and confusing.
This guide explains what that mail is, how to respond, and what procedures you should complete when moving within Japan or overseas.
1. Mail You Receive Soon After Moving In
“Resident Confirmation” from Japan Post
What Is This Letter?
Shortly after moving in, Japan Post may deliver a resident confirmation notice to your mailbox.
This is not a bill or a fine.
It is simply a way for the post office to confirm:
Who is living at the address
Which names should receive mail at that location
What Does the Letter Look Like?
You may see wording such as:
Confirmation of resident name
Request to verify mailbox name
Address confirmation notice
The envelope is usually simple and official-looking.
Why Is This Important?
If the post office cannot confirm who lives at the address:
Your mail may be delayed
Some letters or packages may be returned to the sender
International deliveries may fail
What Should You Do?
You usually have two options:
Option 1: Fill It Out and Return It
Write your name clearly (in Romaji is usually fine)
Confirm the address
Return it as instructed (often no stamp needed)
Option 2: Visit the Local Post Office
Bring the notice
Show your residence card if asked
Confirm your name and address in person
✔ This only needs to be done once after moving in.
2. Make Sure Your Name Is on the Mailbox
Even if you complete the confirmation, your name should be displayed on the mailbox.
✔ Use:
Romaji (English letters)
Same name format used for online shopping and deliveries
This helps postal workers and delivery companies identify your residence correctly.
3. If You Move Within Japan
Domestic Address Change (転居届)
If you move to another address in Japan, you should submit a Mail Forwarding Request.
What Is Mail Forwarding?
Japan Post can forward your mail:
From your old address
To your new address
For up to 1 year
How to Apply
You can apply:
At any post office
Online via Japan Post’s website
Using a paper form available at post offices
Information needed:
Old address
New address
Name
ID (sometimes requested)
✔ This service is free.
4. If You Move Overseas
What You Should Do Before Leaving Japan
If you are leaving Japan permanently or for a long period:
① Submit a Mail Forwarding Request (If Needed)
You can:
Forward mail to a trusted person in Japan
Or to your workplace or management company (if agreed)
⚠ Japan Post generally does not forward regular mail overseas.
② Update Important Addresses
Before leaving Japan, make sure to update your address with:
Banks
Credit card companies
Mobile phone providers
Online shopping sites
Subscriptions and memberships
③ Cancel or Redirect Deliveries
Unclaimed mail after you leave may:
Be returned
Cause confusion
Delay important notices
Planning ahead avoids problems.
5. Recommended Best Practices
Save your Japanese address in English on your phone Keep a photo or copy of your mailbox name Complete post office procedures early after moving
Final Note
Japanese postal procedures may seem complicated at first,
but most steps are simple and one-time only.
Handling them early will ensure smooth deliveries and peace of mind.