Required items and procedures to enroll foreign children in Japanese public elementary schools

2026.02.04

Even foreign children can attend Japanese public elementary schools if they are registered as residents in Japan.

Procedures before enrollment

Register your address at the city or ward office.
Consult the Board of Education or city office about school enrollment.
Receive information about the designated elementary school.

Items and documents required for enrollment

Residence cards of the child and parent
Passport
Certificate of Residence
Health insurance card
Mother and Child Health Handbook (if available)
Documents from the previous school, if any

Items provided or requested by the school

School bag (Randoseru or school backpack)
Textbooks (usually provided free of charge)
Gym clothes and indoor shoes
Stationery such as notebooks, pencils, and erasers

Even if the child cannot speak Japanese, many schools provide Japanese language support or interpreter assistance.
If you have any questions, you can consult the city office or the school.

Japan offers a safe and supportive learning environment for children.

Koji Kitada
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