Online Applications for My Number Card to Be Available Overseas: A Game-Changer for Japanese Citizens Abroad
Online Applications for My Number Card to Be Available Overseas
In a significant step toward modernizing administrative services for Japanese citizens living abroad, the Japanese government has announced a groundbreaking policy to allow online applications for My Number Cards starting in fiscal 2026. This development, reported by The Japan News on August 11, 2025, aims to streamline the application process, reduce bureaucratic hurdles, and enhance convenience for overseas residents. The initiative is part of Japan’s broader push toward digital transformation, aligning with the Digital Agency’s mission to make government services more accessible and efficient. This article explores the key facts surrounding this policy, its implications for Japanese expatriates, and how it fits into the evolving landscape of Japan’s My Number system.
The My Number System: A Brief Overview
The My Number system, introduced in 2015, is Japan’s national identification framework, assigning a unique 12-digit number to every resident, including Japanese citizens and long-term foreign residents. Administered by the Japan Agency for Local Authority Information Systems (J-LIS) and overseen by the Digital Agency since its establishment in 2021, the system is designed to streamline administrative processes in areas such as taxation, social welfare, and disaster response. The My Number Card, a plastic IC card embedded with a chip, serves as a physical manifestation of this system, offering functionalities like identity verification, electronic certificates for online transactions, and access to services such as e-Tax and MynaPortal.
For residents in Japan, applying for a My Number Card has been relatively straightforward, with options to submit applications online, by mail, or at municipal offices. However, for Japanese citizens living overseas, the process has been notably cumbersome, often requiring multiple visits to embassies or lengthy mail-based procedures. The new policy, set to take effect in April 2026, addresses these challenges by extending online application capabilities to overseas residents, marking a significant leap in accessibility.
Key Facts of the New Policy
1. Online Applications from Fiscal 2026
The Japanese government plans to implement an online application system for My Number Cards for citizens residing abroad starting in fiscal 2026 (April 2026–March 2027). This follows the successful rollout of online applications for domestic residents, which has been available for several years. The policy aims to reduce the logistical burden on overseas applicants, who currently face a complex process involving in-person submissions at Japanese embassies, consulates, or municipal offices in their hometowns, or mailing applications to Japan. According to The Japan News, the new system will allow applicants to complete the entire application process online, except for the final step of identity verification, which will still require a single visit to an embassy or consulate.
2. Streamlining a Lengthy Process
Under the current system, overseas applicants must submit their My Number Card applications either in person at a Japanese embassy or consulate, at a municipal office in their hometown during a visit to Japan, or via international mail. This process often takes two to three months from application to issuance due to logistical challenges, such as mailing documents across borders and coordinating with embassies. For many expatriates, particularly those living far from a Japanese diplomatic mission, this has been a significant inconvenience. The online application system is expected to significantly reduce processing times, although exact timelines have not yet been specified. The government anticipates that allowing online submissions will cut down on paperwork and expedite the initial stages of the application process.
3. Identity Verification Requirement
While the application process will move online, the government has emphasized that identity verification remains a critical step. Applicants will still need to visit a Japanese embassy or consulate in person to confirm their identity when collecting their My Number Card. This requirement ensures the security of the process, preventing fraud and ensuring that cards are issued only to the rightful applicants. However, the shift to online applications means that only one embassy visit will be necessary, compared to the multiple visits or complex mailing procedures currently required in many cases. This change is particularly beneficial for those living in remote areas or countries with limited access to Japanese diplomatic missions.
4. Eligibility and Scope
The online application system will be available to Japanese citizens living abroad who have not yet obtained a My Number Card, as well as those who need to renew or replace their cards. As of May 27, 2024, Japanese citizens who departed Japan on or after October 5, 2015, and do not yet have a My Number Card are eligible to apply. Those who left Japan before this date and have not been assigned a My Number will receive one upon creating a resident record when they return to Japan or apply for the card. The policy does not apply to foreign residents living outside Japan, as the My Number system is tied to resident registration in Japan.
5. Integration with Other Services
The My Number Card is more than just an identification document; it serves as a multi-purpose tool for accessing various government and private services. For overseas residents, the card can be used for online administrative procedures, such as filing taxes via e-Tax, accessing MynaPortal for government services, and even integrating driver’s license information through the Myna Driver’s License Card system, which was introduced nationwide on March 24, 2025. Additionally, the card can function as a health insurance card in Japan, a feature that has been gradually rolled out since 2021. The ability to apply online will make it easier for expatriates to maintain access to these services, even while living abroad.
6. Digital Transformation and Consular Services
This policy aligns with broader efforts by Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) and the Digital Agency to digitize consular services. Since March 27, 2023, MOFA has expanded online application systems for passports, certificates, and visas, with online credit card payments available at all Japanese diplomatic missions as of July 10, 2023. The introduction of online My Number Card applications is a natural extension of these efforts, reflecting Japan’s commitment to improving user convenience and streamlining consular processes. The Consular Digital Transformation Division, established within MOFA in April 2023, is driving these initiatives to create a more efficient and user-friendly experience for Japanese nationals overseas.
7. Challenges and Considerations
While the policy is a significant step forward, some challenges remain. The requirement for in-person identity verification at an embassy or consulate may still pose difficulties for those living far from such facilities. Additionally, the online application system will require access to a stable internet connection and familiarity with digital platforms, which may be a barrier for some applicants. The government has not yet released detailed technical specifications for the online application portal, but it is expected to be accessible via the MynaPortal or a similar platform, potentially with multilingual support, as seen with the My Number Card website’s chatbot, which now supports 10 languages.
Implications for Japanese Expatriates
The introduction of online My Number Card applications is a game-changer for the estimated 1.3 million Japanese citizens living abroad (based on MOFA’s 2023 estimates). For many, the current application process is a significant deterrent due to time, cost, and logistical constraints. The new system addresses these pain points by:
- Reducing Travel Needs: By allowing online submissions, the policy eliminates the need for multiple embassy visits or trips to Japan for application purposes. This is particularly impactful for those in countries with limited Japanese diplomatic presence, such as rural areas or smaller nations with only one consulate.
- Time Savings: The current two-to-three-month processing time is expected to be shortened, enabling faster access to the card and its associated services.
- Enhanced Access to Services: With a My Number Card, expatriates can more easily engage in online administrative tasks, such as tax filings or accessing government records, without needing to rely on slower mail-based systems.
- Support for Digital Nomads and Long-Term Residents: As more Japanese citizens adopt global lifestyles, the ability to maintain a connection to Japan’s administrative systems is increasingly important. The My Number Card facilitates this by serving as a secure, digital identity tool.
Broader Context: Japan’s Digital Transformation
The policy is part of Japan’s ambitious digital transformation agenda, spearheaded by the Digital Agency since its inception in September 2021. The agency has been working to modernize administrative processes, reduce bureaucracy, and promote the use of digital tools like the My Number Card. Recent developments, such as the integration of driver’s licenses and health insurance functions into the My Number Card, reflect this push toward a unified, multi-purpose identification system. The extension of online applications to overseas residents is a logical step in this direction, ensuring that Japan’s digital infrastructure is inclusive of its global diaspora.
Moreover, the policy aligns with global trends in digital governance. Countries like South Africa have recently partnered with banks to allow ID and passport applications through mobile banking apps, a move praised for its convenience (News24, August 12, 2025). Japan’s initiative, while focused on its own national ID system, mirrors this trend toward leveraging technology to simplify identity management for citizens abroad.
Challenges in Implementation
While the policy is promising, several challenges must be addressed to ensure its success:
- Digital Literacy and Access: Not all Japanese expatriates may be comfortable with online application systems, particularly older individuals or those in regions with limited internet access. The government will need to provide clear instructions and multilingual support to accommodate diverse needs.
- Security Concerns: The shift to online applications raises questions about cybersecurity. The government must ensure that the application portal is secure against data breaches and fraud, especially given the sensitive nature of personal information involved.
- Embassy Capacity: The requirement for in-person identity verification could strain embassy resources, particularly in regions with high concentrations of Japanese expatriates. MOFA will need to ensure that consulates are adequately staffed and equipped to handle card pickups.
- Awareness and Outreach: Many overseas residents may be unaware of the My Number system or the benefits of obtaining a card. The government will need to invest in outreach campaigns to educate expatriates about the new application process and its advantages.
Looking Ahead
As fiscal 2026 approaches, the Japanese government is expected to release more details about the online application system, including technical specifications, supported platforms, and timelines for implementation. The success of the policy will depend on its ability to address these challenges while delivering on its promise of convenience and efficiency. For now, the announcement has generated optimism among Japanese expatriates, who see it as a step toward greater integration with their home country’s administrative systems.
The policy also sets a precedent for further digital innovations in consular services. As Japan continues to expand online applications for passports, visas, and other documents, the My Number Card could become a cornerstone of a fully digitized identity ecosystem for Japanese citizens worldwide. This aligns with the Digital Agency’s vision of a “user-driven” administration, where technology empowers citizens to access services seamlessly, regardless of their location.
Conclusion
The introduction of online applications for My Number Cards for Japanese citizens living abroad is a landmark development in Japan’s ongoing digital transformation. By addressing the logistical challenges faced by expatriates, the policy promises to make the My Number system more inclusive and accessible, reinforcing its role as a critical tool for identity verification and administrative efficiency. However, the success of this initiative will hinge on effective implementation, robust cybersecurity measures, and proactive outreach to ensure that all eligible citizens can benefit.
A Step Toward Global Accessibility
For Japanese expatriates, the ability to apply for a My Number Card online represents a significant reduction in bureaucratic friction. The current system, which requires in-person submissions or international mail, is often impractical for those living far from Japanese embassies or consulates. The new policy, set to launch in April 2026, will allow applicants to complete the initial stages of the process from anywhere in the world, requiring only one embassy visit for identity verification. This change is particularly meaningful for the approximately 1.3 million Japanese citizens living abroad, many of whom have struggled to maintain administrative ties with Japan due to geographical and logistical barriers.
The policy also reflects a broader shift in how governments worldwide are approaching citizen services in an increasingly globalized world. As more people live and work abroad, nations are recognizing the need to adapt administrative systems to accommodate their diaspora. Japan’s initiative follows in the footsteps of countries like South Africa, which has partnered with banks to streamline ID and passport applications (News24, August 12, 2025). By leveraging digital platforms, Japan is positioning itself as a leader in this space, ensuring that its citizens can access critical services regardless of their location.
Enhancing the My Number Card’s Value
The My Number Card is more than just an ID; it is a gateway to a wide range of services that are increasingly vital in a digital age. For expatriates, the card enables access to MynaPortal, Japan’s online government services platform, which allows users to file taxes, access resident records, and manage other administrative tasks remotely. The integration of driver’s license and health insurance functions further enhances the card’s utility, making it a versatile tool for both domestic and overseas residents. The ability to apply online will encourage more expatriates to obtain the card, thereby increasing their engagement with Japan’s digital infrastructure.
Moreover, the policy supports Japan’s efforts to promote electronic governance. The Digital Agency, established in 2021, has prioritized reducing bureaucratic inefficiencies through digitalization. The My Number Card is central to this mission, serving as a secure, unified platform for identity verification and service access. By extending online applications to overseas residents, the government is ensuring that its digital transformation agenda is inclusive, reaching citizens beyond Japan’s borders.
Addressing Potential Challenges
Despite its promise, the policy faces several hurdles that must be addressed to ensure its success. First, the requirement for in-person identity verification at embassies or consulates remains a potential bottleneck. While the online application process reduces the need for multiple visits, those living in remote areas or countries with limited Japanese diplomatic presence may still face challenges. The government and MOFA must ensure that consulates are adequately resourced to handle card pickups efficiently, particularly in high-demand regions like North America, Europe, and Southeast Asia.
Second, cybersecurity is a critical concern. The My Number system handles sensitive personal data, and any online application portal must be fortified against hacking, phishing, and other cyber threats. The government’s track record with MynaPortal and other digital platforms is promising, but the stakes are higher for overseas applications, where users may face additional risks due to varying internet security standards. Robust encryption, multi-factor authentication, and regular security audits will be essential to maintaining trust in the system.
Third, digital literacy and access could pose barriers for some applicants. While younger expatriates and digital nomads may find the online application process intuitive, older individuals or those in regions with limited internet infrastructure may struggle. The government’s decision to offer multilingual support through the My Number Card website’s chatbot is a positive step, but further efforts are needed to ensure accessibility. This could include step-by-step guides in multiple languages, video tutorials, and support hotlines tailored to overseas residents.
Finally, awareness remains a challenge. Many Japanese expatriates may be unaware of the My Number system or the benefits of obtaining a card. The government must invest in targeted outreach campaigns, leveraging embassies, community organizations, and online platforms to educate citizens about the new application process and its advantages. Partnerships with Japanese cultural associations and expatriate networks could help amplify these efforts.
A Vision for the Future
The introduction of online My Number Card applications is a milestone in Japan’s digital transformation journey, but it is only one piece of a larger puzzle. The Digital Agency and MOFA are already exploring further innovations, such as fully digital consular services and expanded online payment options. The success of the My Number Card policy could pave the way for similar initiatives, creating a seamless, digital-first experience for Japanese citizens worldwide.
Looking ahead, the policy could also inspire other nations to adopt similar measures for their expatriate populations. As globalization continues to drive international mobility, governments must find ways to balance security, accessibility, and convenience in their administrative systems. Japan’s approach—leveraging a national ID system to empower citizens abroad—offers a model that others may emulate.
Final Thoughts
The announcement of online My Number Card applications for overseas residents is a bold step toward a more connected and inclusive Japan. By reducing barriers to access and aligning with global trends in digital governance, the policy promises to enhance the lives of Japanese expatriates while strengthening their ties to their home country. However, its success will depend on careful planning, robust implementation, and a commitment to addressing the needs of all citizens, regardless of their location or circumstances.
As fiscal 2026 approaches, the Japanese government has an opportunity to set a new standard for consular services in the digital age. By delivering on this promise, Japan can ensure that its expatriates remain fully integrated into its administrative and social fabric, no matter where they are in the world. The My Number Card, once a domestic tool, is poised to become a global asset, empowering Japanese citizens to navigate their administrative needs with unprecedented ease and efficiency.
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Online Applications for My Number Card to Be Available Overseas