April marks the start of a new fiscal year for many companies in Japan. At the same time, many students begin their careers as working professionals. Government budgets also start in April. It is a season when many students enter school and many people begin new chapters in their lives.
From late March to early April, cherry blossoms reach full bloom across Japan. Around April 5, the weather gradually becomes brighter and more refreshing. When swallows begin to appear, people feel that warmer days are on the way. Around April 20, gentle rain often falls, bringing much-needed moisture to the fields.
From around April 29 to May 5, Japan has a long holiday period called Golden Week, when several national holidays occur in succession. Encouraged by the warm spring weather, many people go out for travel and leisure. It is also a perfect opportunity to relax and recover from the tension of starting a new environment in April.
Important Notes Regarding Your Residence Status
Many people start working in Japan during this time of year. While companies usually handle many administrative procedures, there are also some responsibilities that individuals must complete themselves.
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Notification of the Contracting Organization (within 14 days)
If the organization you belong to (such as a company or school) changes due to employment, a job change, or resignation, the foreign resident must submit a “Notification of the Contracting Organization” to the Immigration Services Agency within 14 days.This notification is completely different from the reports that companies submit to Hello Work or immigration authorities. Many people mistakenly assume that their company will take care of it, and the notification is often forgotten.
To avoid this, make sure to complete the procedure yourself when you start a new job. The online notification system is convenient and easy to use. Failing to submit this notification may negatively affect your next visa renewal.
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Notification of Address (within 14 days)
This is also a time when many people move due to new jobs or transfers. If you move to a new residence, you must submit a move-in notification at your local municipal office within 14 days of moving.Your new address will be recorded on the back of your residence card. Missing the deadline may result in penalties. In addition, if you fail to report your new address for more than 90 days without a valid reason, there is a risk that your residence status could be revoked. This procedure should also be completed together with your My Number registration.
During this period, the Immigration Services Agency is at its busiest time of the year. If your residence status expires between April and June, the review process may take longer than usual. It is recommended to begin your renewal application as soon as the three-month application window opens, or to submit your application online.
Customs and Everyday Life
From late March to early April, many people enjoy hanami (cherry blossom viewing) as the cherry blossoms begin to bloom. Welcome parties for new students and new employees are also common during this time. If you want to check the cherry blossom forecast, the Weathernews cherry blossom forecast is a useful resource: Weathernews Cherry Blossom Forecast.
During this season, more people attend welcome parties where alcohol may be served. While many workplaces hold drinking gatherings to build relationships between colleagues and supervisors, more companies today are becoming careful not to pressure employees to attend.
In Japan, many companies hire new graduates all at once on April 1, followed by a formal entrance ceremony. Seeing large numbers of new employees in similar black or navy recruitment suits filling the streets has become one of the symbolic scenes of spring in Japan. After the entrance ceremony, companies often conduct group training sessions and business etiquette training for several days or even months — a practice deeply rooted in Japanese corporate culture.
Many people also purchase commuter passes for trains or buses for work or school. It is common to pay the commuter pass in advance until the first payday arrives about a month later. In 2026, train fares will increase due to the spring timetable revision, so it may be helpful to check the cost in advance.
In Japan, most systems — including government budgets, schools, and companies — start in April. Be sure not to forget administrative procedures such as updating your address, and begin your new chapter smoothly. At the same time, try to learn everyday rules in your neighborhood, such as garbage disposal schedules and etiquette on trains, and gradually become comfortable with life in Japan.
By Hajime Saito
X:@hajimesaitoYJC
