Are you considering an international relocation to Japan? Although this is an exciting adventure full of endless new experiences and possibilities, the moving process can be daunting without the right knowledge. To be prepared for the journey ahead, Understanding the best ways to approach the task will set you up for the most successful move possible, allowing you to methodically tackle each aspect of your upcoming move.
To assist you through this process, we’ve created a comprehensive Japan moving guide. Keep reading to discover the tasks you need to complete ahead of your move to Japan!
Moving to Japan requires a comprehensive plan to ensure the best results. Find out more about the steps to follow below!
Before moving anywhere, completing thorough research is a must to understand what to expect from your new home. As you consider whether Japan is the right place for you, be sure to research all aspects of life in the country to choose if it’s the ideal fit for your own wants and needs. Look into the lifestyle, cost of living, housing options, and more, as these elements are crucial to making your decision. A great way to obtain insights during the research process is to connect with other expats who have moved to Japan because these people can share firsthand experiences.
Once you’ve made an informed decision about moving to Japan, it’s time to start creating an exhaustive relocation plan. This should include a timeline of tasks you need to complete ahead of your move, which will serve as your to-do list so no important aspects of your relocation slip through the cracks. Additionally, you should make a thorough budget to prepare yourself for the costs associated with your move. This should also allow you to set aside emergency funds in case of any issues that arise.
Japan has many vibrant cities to choose from, each with its own unique characteristics. Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto are popular spots among expats, but other cities like Fukuoka, Sapporo, and Yokohama also offer great opportunities. When choosing a city, consider factors such as job availability, cost of living, climate, and lifestyle preferences.
One unique aspect of moving to Japan versus moving to another country is the Certificate of Eligibility. A COE is needed for anyone planning to stay in Japan for longer than 90 days, as this document “verifies the activity in which the foreigner wishes to engage while in Japan” and “reduces the time required to obtain a visa,” according to the Japanese embassy. The application is submitted by your sponsor in Japan, such as your employer. Once you acquire your COE, you will need to enter the country within three months.
When handling an international move, securing the right visa is a critical step. Japan offers various visa categories for expats, including work visas, student visas, and family visas. The specific requirements and process can vary, so be sure to check the Japanese Immigration Bureau’s website for detailed information. Take care of this aspect as far in advance as possible, as this process could potentially be time-consuming.
Relocating presents the perfect opportunity to declutter your home of any items you no longer want or need. Especially with the costs associated with international moving, paring down your belongings ahead of the relocation can help you save a significant amount of money—not to mention time and energy. Sort your belongings into donate, sell, throw away, and keep categories. Be as discerning as possible so you can significantly decrease how many items you need to move.
As you prepare for your move to Japan, set aside time to study the language and learn as much as possible before you relocate. Although you will undoubtedly encounter other English speakers during your travels, learning Japanese will significantly enhance your experience and improve your ability to integrate into Japanese society. Start with basic phrases and gradually build your proficiency. Language skills will help you navigate daily life, communicate effectively, and understand cultural nuances—all important aspects of making the most of your move.
Understanding Japanese customs and culture is vital for a smooth transition. Ahead of your move, research social etiquette, work culture, and common practices. Moving to a new country usually results in culture shock to some level, so learning as much as possible in advance will allow you to combat this aspect of the adjustment. Respect for traditions and customs will help you build better relationships with locals and form connections in your new home.
If you have kids, one vital aspect of your move will be the schooling options in Japan. The country offers public, private, and international schools, which can each meet a diverse array of needs. As you decide the right option for your child, consider the language of instruction, curriculum, and the school’s location. International schools may provide a more familiar environment, but they can be expensive. Public schools are more affordable and offer a great way for children to integrate into the local community.
When moving to a different country, pet parents need to carefully research the rules and regulations about bringing animals into the country. Ahead of your move to Japan, look into the rules around your specific type of pet and ensure you meet all the necessary requirements to move your pet with you. Your pet will need to quarantine for a period of time as well, so be sure to take that into consideration as you make your travel plans.
Japan has an excellent healthcare system, but navigating it can be challenging as a foreigner without any prior knowledge. As part of your moving preparation, research how to access medical services, the cost of healthcare, and insurance options. Most expats are required to enroll in the National Health Insurance (NHI) or a similar plan. Additionally, look into local clinics and hospitals near your new home so you can be prepared in case of emergencies.
Like with any relocation, having a local bank account is essential for managing your finances in Japan. Once you have a residence card, you can open an account at a Japanese bank. If you have limited knowledge of the language, choose a bank that offers services in English to make the process easier.
A great way to make connections in your new home is to find a community of fellow expats to join. Connecting with expat communities can provide support and make your transition smoother, as these people will be able to provide valuable advice, share experiences, and help you build a social network in your new home.
With these steps, your move to Japan can be a major success! Interested in working with a trusted moving company to make your relocation even smoother? Count on Allied International, the trusted international movers for over a century. We offer top-rated moving, packing, and storage solutions, serving markets in over 37 countries and 1,000 locations worldwide.
With Allied on your side, you can enjoy a streamlined international relocation experience. Request a free quote online or call us today to learn more!
We carefully and methodically pack and crate your items, ensuring their safe and secure arrival. We take pride in the expert packing, crating, and handling of your possessions.
Our aim is to have your belongings safely and quickly transported to your new location, with a focus on customer service and your utmost satisfaction.
We provide you with a personal moving coordinator. You can check in any time you wish, connecting to the same person who will be very familiar with your particular custom moving plan.
