Explanation by an Immigration Lawyer: “Second-Generation Residence Card” and “Specified Residence Card” Starting June 2026

1. What will change starting June 14, 2026?

There are two major pillars to this system revision. First, the specifications of residence cards themselves will be updated. The Immigration Services Agency has reviewed the information recorded on residence cards based on amendments to the Immigration Control Act and has published the specifications for the second-generation residence cards.

Second, eligible mid- to long-term residents will be able to apply for a “Specified Residence Card,” which integrates residence card functions with the My Number Card. This means that from June 2026 onward, foreign residents are not required to switch to the integrated card. Instead, both conventional residence cards and specified residence cards with My Number functionality will coexist.

2. Difference between the Second-Generation Residence Card and the Specified Residence Card

In practice, the terms “Second-Generation Residence Card” and “Specified Residence Card” are often confused. The Second-Generation Residence Card refers to the updated residence card specifications introduced after June 2026. Meanwhile, the Specified Residence Card refers to a residence card that incorporates My Number Card functionality.

Therefore, not all foreign residents will automatically switch to the Specified Residence Card. Those who do not wish to integrate the My Number Card may continue to hold both cards separately. Companies and institutions responsible for identity verification should prepare for a period in which multiple card formats coexist.

3. Application start date and procedures

According to the Immigration Services Agency, operation of the Specified Residence Card system will begin on June 14, 2026. However, since that date falls on a Sunday, applications at regional immigration offices will effectively begin from the next business day, June 15, 2026.

Applications can generally be made at regional immigration offices or municipal offices. At immigration offices, applications may be submitted together with residence status extension, change of status, permanent residence applications, residence card reissuance, or changes to registered information. Municipal offices may accept applications when submitting address registration notifications such as moving-in procedures.

4. Impact on foreign residents

The biggest change for foreign residents is the expansion of options for managing identification cards. Obtaining a Specified Residence Card allows residence card and My Number Card functions to be integrated into a single card, improving convenience for administrative procedures and identity verification.

However, if the card is lost, both residence card functions and My Number functions may be affected. Additionally, managing passwords, electronic certificates, and address change procedures may require greater attention than before.

Switching to a Specified Residence Card is not merely replacing one card with another. It also involves managing identity authentication functions associated with the My Number system, so applicants should fully understand the system before applying.

5. Impact on companies employing foreign workers

It is important to note that employers’ obligation to verify residence cards will not change. Employers must continue to confirm residence status, period of stay, work restrictions, and permission for activities outside status.

However, changes in card format and verification procedures may cause confusion among staff. Companies should prepare for a transition period during which multiple residence card formats coexist. Therefore, reviewing internal procedures for hiring, renewals, and residence period management is recommended.

In particular, confirming residence expiration dates, work authorization eligibility, and permission for part-time work remains essential. Changes in card appearance do not change employers’ compliance responsibilities.

6. Practical considerations from an administrative scrivener’s perspective

From June 2026 onward, consultations regarding extensions or changes of residence status should include confirmation of whether the applicant wishes to apply for a Specified Residence Card. This is particularly relevant for individuals who already hold a My Number Card or wish to utilize digital administrative services.

Even when administrative scriveners act as application agents, additional considerations such as personal appearance requirements, proxy eligibility, password handling, and identity verification procedures may arise. Because the Specified Residence Card relates to both immigration management and the My Number system, careful explanation to applicants is essential.

7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

No. The Specified Residence Card is optional and integrates residence card and My Number Card functions. Residents who do not wish to integrate the cards may continue holding them separately.

No. Existing residence cards will not immediately become invalid. However, switching may occur when applying for extensions, status changes, reissuance, or information updates.

Companies should review residence expiration tracking lists, hiring procedures, and residence card verification workflows. Special attention is needed during the transition period when multiple card formats coexist.

Because the card includes both residence card and My Number functions, prompt reporting and reissuance procedures are required. Specific procedures depend on individual circumstances.

Consultation is recommended when applying together with residence status changes, managing multiple foreign employees’ residence cards, or preparing compliance procedures after system implementation.

8. Summary

The introduction of the Second-Generation Residence Card and the Specified Residence Card system from June 14, 2026 represents an important institutional change aimed at improving administrative efficiency and identity verification systems.

During the transition period, multiple card formats will coexist. Companies employing foreign workers should review residence card verification procedures and prepare internal compliance systems accordingly.

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