Global Major Cities Guide

Location: 1-29-53 Nankokita, Suminoe-ku, Osaka
Purpose: Handles visa applications, residence permits, re-entry permits, naturalization, and other immigration-related matters.
Common Procedures:
- Residence Card Issuance/Update: For new arrivals or those changing visa status.
  - Documents Needed: Passport, application form, photo (4cm x 3cm), and supporting documents (e.g., employment contract, proof of enrollment in school).
  - Cost: Free for issuance; ¥4,000 for re-entry permits (revenue stamps required).
- Visa Renewal: For extending your stay.
  - Documents Needed: Application form, passport, residence card, proof of income or financial support, and other supporting documents.
  - Cost: ¥4,000 (revenue stamps).
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM (closed on weekends and public holidays).
Cultural Considerations:
- Be punctual and polite. Bowing is customary when greeting staff.
- Bring all required documents neatly organized.
- If you don’t speak Japanese, consider bringing a translator or using translation apps.

Location: 1-3-20 Nakanoshima, Kita-ku, Osaka
Purpose: Central administrative office for Osaka City. Handles city-wide policies, taxes, and public services.
Ward Offices (区役所, Kuyakusho):
- Osaka is divided into 24 wards, each with its own ward office. These offices handle local administrative tasks such as resident registration, health insurance, and family registry matters.
Common Procedures:
- Resident Registration (住民登録, Jumin Toroku):
  - Required for all residents staying in Japan for more than 90 days.
  - Documents Needed: Passport, residence card, and completed registration form.
  - Cost: Free.
- National Health Insurance Enrollment:
  - Documents Needed: Residence card, proof of address, and application form.
  - Cost: Monthly premiums vary based on income.
- My Number Card Application:
  - Japan’s national ID card system.
  - Documents Needed: Residence card, photo, and application form.
  - Cost: Free for the first issuance.
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM (closed on weekends and public holidays).
Cultural Considerations:
- Staff may not speak fluent English, so bring a Japanese-speaking friend or translator if needed.
- Dress modestly and maintain a respectful tone.

Location: Multiple offices across Osaka, depending on your ward.
Purpose: Handles income tax, consumption tax, and other tax-related matters.
Common Procedures:
- Filing Income Tax (確定申告, Kakutei Shinkoku):
  - Required for freelancers, business owners, or those with additional income sources.
  - Documents Needed: Tax return form, proof of income, receipts for deductions, and My Number card.
  - Cost: Free to file, but taxes owed depend on income.
- Tax Payment:
  - Payments can be made at the tax office, banks, or convenience stores.
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM (closed on weekends and public holidays).
Cultural Considerations:
- Be prepared with all documents to avoid multiple trips.
- Tax season (February to March) can be very busy, so arrive early.

Location: 3-1-11 Otemae, Chuo-ku, Osaka
Purpose: Handles lost property, traffic accidents, and crime reports.
Common Procedures:
- Lost Property Report:
  - Documents Needed: Description of the lost item and identification.
  - Cost: Free.
- Alien Registration Certificate Replacement (if lost):
  - Documents Needed: Passport, proof of identity, and a photo.
  - Cost: ¥1,000 - ¥2,000.
Operating Hours: 24/7 for emergencies; administrative tasks are handled during regular business hours.
Cultural Considerations:
- Always remain calm and polite when interacting with police officers.
- If you don’t speak Japanese, ask for an English-speaking officer.

Purpose: In addition to mail services, post offices in Japan handle banking, bill payments, and some government-related services.
Common Procedures:
- Sending Mail/Packages:
  - Cost: Varies by weight and destination.
- Paying Bills:
  - Utility bills, taxes, and other payments can be made here.
  - Cost: Free for most bill payments.
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM; some branches open on weekends for limited hours.
Cultural Considerations:
- Queue patiently and follow instructions from staff.
- Post office staff are generally very helpful but may have limited English proficiency.

Location: Multiple branches across Osaka.
Purpose: Assists with job placement, unemployment benefits, and labor-related inquiries.
Common Procedures:
- Job Search Assistance:
  - Documents Needed: Resume (in Japanese), residence card, and My Number card.
  - Cost: Free.
- Unemployment Benefits Application:
  - Documents Needed: Proof of previous employment, residence card, and bank account details.
  - Cost: Free.
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:15 PM (closed on weekends and public holidays).
Cultural Considerations:
- Be prepared to communicate in Japanese or bring a translator.
- Dress professionally when attending job consultations.

Osaka hosts several consulates for foreign nationals, including the U.S., China, South Korea, and others.
Purpose: Passport renewals, visa applications, and assistance for citizens abroad.
Operating Hours: Vary by consulate; typically Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM.
Cultural Considerations:
- Check the consulate’s website for specific requirements and appointment systems.
- Be punctual and bring all required documents.

Language Barrier: While some offices have English-speaking staff, it’s best to bring a Japanese-speaking friend or use translation apps.
Punctuality: Arrive early, as government offices can be busy, especially during peak times.
Documentation: Always bring original documents and copies. Japanese bureaucracy is detail-oriented.
Politeness: Bowing, using polite language, and showing respect are essential.
Cash Payments: Many offices require payments in cash or revenue stamps, which can be purchased at convenience stores or post offices.

By following these guidelines, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate Osaka’s government offices efficiently and respectfully.