New Alien Registration system for 2012
If you're a foreigner in Japan (as is probably likely since you are reading particular this website, and this particular post in English, you know about the headaches associated with registering as a foreign resident.
All foreign nationals staying in Japan on a visa longer than 3 months must register as an alien resident. You go to your city hall/ward office, register, and get issued a card, which has your picture, address, work information, etc on it. It's hard to explain exactly why it's a pain; it just is, I guess. Still, starting in July of next year 2012, they're making things easier.
http://www.immi-moj.go.jp/newimmiact_1/en/index.html
Best of all, the period of stay will be extended to a max of 5 years initially. This is surely intended just to reduce the workload of the immigration staff, but of course this is great for residents too who find it a pain to have to renew yearly, like I would have to do if I wasn't getting married.
The best is the part about re-entry permission, though, I think. Currently, you have to go buy a special re-entry permit stamp. You can either buy a one-time re-entry for 3,000 yen, or multiple (i.e. infinite for as long as your visa is valid) for 6,000.
"Foreign nationals in possession of a valid passport and residence card
who will be re-entering Japan within 1 year of their departure* will, in
principle, not be required to apply for a re-entry permit."
How great is that? So much easier now.
Also, check point 4 for how the current alien registration system will be totally abolished! Nice. Can't wait! If you really want to come to Japan long-term, starting next year will probably be the most hassle-free.
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