Since 14 June 2026 three kinds of card are in use at the same time:
- First-generation cards issued until 13 June 2026 — still valid.
- Second-generation cards — new design and IC chip.
- 特定在留カード — an optional card that combines the residence card and the My Number Card.
What disappeared from the front
The period of stay (在留期間), type of permission, date of permission and date of issue are now stored only on the IC chip. Forms still ask for your period of stay and expiry date, so note them when you receive the card. You can read the chip with the free official app 在留カード等読取アプリケーション, and the dates also appear on the permission notice.
Lost your card?
- Report the loss at a police box (交番) and note the receipt number, or get a theft/loss certificate.
- Within 14 days of noticing (or of returning to Japan), apply for reissue at your immigration office with the police document, a photo and your passport.
Source: ISA — reissue after loss.