Everyday Concerns

1Post Offices and Banks

1-1Post Offices

• The symbol for the Japanese post offices and mailboxes is “〒”.
• You can send letters and packages domestically and internationally.
• Notify the post office if you move house. Your mail will be forwarded to the new address for a period of one year.

Detailed Information

• Post Offices

1-2Banks

• You can open a bank account at an office.
• You can transfer money to make deposits, send transfers, pay utility bills, etc.
• If there is a change to your address, duration of stay, residency status, or other information, immediately contact the bank.

2-1Searching for a Job

• There are places to consult on job hunting or employment insurance.

2-2When Working

• Before working in Japan, research your residence status, employment status (regular employee, temporary employee, etc.), the employment contract, and salary.
• There are laws and company regulations regarding salary, working hours, vacations, etc.

3-1Pregnancy through Birth

• Once the hospital confirms a pregnancy, contact the Children and Families Support Division at the ward office to receive a “Mother and Child Health Booklet.” There are also Mother and Child Health Booklets available in multiple languages.
• Along with the Mother and Child Health Booklets, you will receive a ticket. This will lower the cost of maternal and pediatric physical exams.

3-2Raising Children (Before Elementary School)

• There are locations that offer childcare and education prior to elementary school including daycares and kindergartens.

3-4High School and Beyond

• Those continuing to high school or university must take an entrance exam.

• For those who graduated Junior High School abroad and wish to enter high school in Japan

3-5Career and Education Counseling

• There are consultation services for those who would like career counseling or to learn more about Japanese schools.