//
If you live in Japan as a foreign resident, you know the routine: the residence card at the immigration office, the My Number Card at city hall — two cards, two windows, two sets of paperwork every time something changes.
As of June 14, 2026, those two can become one. The new Specified Residence Card (特定在留カード, Tokutei Zairyu Card) merges them into a single card. This guide explains what it is, who's eligible, how to apply, and — importantly — the exact photo requirements you'll need to meet.
The Specified Residence Card combines the functions of the residence card (在留カード) and the My Number Card (マイナンバーカード) into one card. Instead of carrying two cards and handling procedures at two different agencies, eligible residents can hold a single integrated card — designed to reduce the administrative burden of living in Japan as a foreign national.
Special permanent residents have an equivalent: the Specified Special Permanent Resident Certificate (特定特別永住者証明書), which combines the special permanent resident certificate with My Number Card functions.
Note that your My Number is printed on the back of the card. Employers are prohibited by law from copying or storing the back of the card during the hiring-selection stage.
Source: Immigration Services Agency — Specified Residence Card application
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Operation start | Sunday, June 14, 2026 |
| Applications begin | From Monday, June 15, 2026 |
| Where to apply | Regional immigration offices (in person) |
| Main eligibility | Mid-to-long-term residents in the Basic Resident Register |
| Special permanent residents | May apply for the Specified Special Permanent Resident Certificate |
Switching is optional — those who want the combined card apply for it in person. For the handling of your current card and whether a switch is needed in your situation, check the Immigration Services Agency website.
This is the key point to remember. The Specified Residence Card application is not available online.
If you want the Specified Residence Card, you must visit the counter to apply and receive the card in person, including the related residence procedures. You cannot complete the application from your phone or computer.
Different from other online residence procedures
Some residence procedures (such as status changes or extensions) do support online application, but the Specified Residence Card issuance application is not one of them. It must be done at the counter.
The Specified Residence Card application generally requires one photo. There are exceptions — for example, applicants under 1 year old at the time of issuance, or certain postal-delivery (直送) cases — where a photo may not be needed.
You bring the photo with you when you apply. Rather than an online upload, think of it as preparing a printed photo that meets the specifications.
The submission photo specs set by the Immigration Services Agency are as follows.
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Size | 4cm tall × 3cm wide (4:3) |
| When taken | Within 6 months before the application |
| Composition | Subject only, no hat, facing forward |
| Background | No background (including shadows) |
| Quality | Sharp and clear |
| Other | Mirror-flipped photos are not accepted |
Source: Immigration Services Agency — Photo specifications
ID photo apps and smartphone editors offer plenty of ways to smooth and brighten skin. But for the Specified Residence Card and other residence-related photos, this kind of editing is not permitted.
Under the Immigration Services Agency's rules, image processing that enlarges the eyes, whitens the skin, or corrects facial parts, moles, or wrinkles to change the subject's appearance is inappropriate in all cases.
Turn off beauty and whitening filters
Make sure "beauty," "whitening," and "slim face" filters in your camera app are switched off. A photo that alters your appearance will be rejected, leading to a retake and delays.
The application itself happens at the counter, but the photo you bring can be prepared at home. You don't need a photo studio or a photo booth — a single shot from your smartphone is enough to start.
mynaphoto.jp helps you prepare a spec-ready file
Upload your smartphone photo to mynaphoto.jp and we automatically handle background adjustment, sizing, and file formatting. We do not alter the shape of your face or features. Download the finished file, print it (for example at a convenience store), and bring it to the counter. Note: we help you create the submission photo — we do not file the application for you, and acceptance is at the discretion of the receiving office.
For shooting basics, see good vs bad ID photos; for sizing, see the ID photo size guide. For other residence-related needs, the visa & residence photo requirements guide is also useful.
Prepare a spec-ready ID photo from home
Just upload your smartphone photo. We adjust the background and sizing automatically, and you download a print-ready file.
Create Your PhotoNote
This article is based on requirements current as of June 2026. Systems and specifications may change. Always verify the latest information on the Immigration Services Agency website.
A new card that combines the residence card and the My Number Card into one. It began operation on June 14, 2026. Special permanent residents have an equivalent: the Specified Special Permanent Resident Certificate.
No. The issuance application is not available online. You must apply in person at a regional immigration office and receive the card in person.
4cm tall × 3cm wide (4:3). It must be taken within 6 months, with no hat, facing forward, no background or shadow, and be sharp and clear.
No. Skin-whitening, removing moles or wrinkles, enlarging eyes, or any editing that changes your appearance is not permitted. Mirror-flipped photos are also rejected.
Switching is optional. Those who want the combined card apply in person. Check the Immigration Services Agency website for the latest details on whether and when to switch.
Yes. A smartphone photo is fine if it meets the specs. Prepare a file sized and backgrounded to the standard, then print it and bring it to the counter.