My name on my PR Card is different from my Passport. How should I apply for the JR Pass?
You must always use the exact name as it appears on your valid Japanese Passport when applying for a JAPAN RAIL PASS.
For Japanese nationals living abroad, your residency proof is verified against your passport. Please note the following regarding name discrepancies:
- Consular Documents: Official documents issued by the Japanese Consulate, such as the "Certificate of Overseas Residence" (Zairyu Shomeisho), will naturally match your Passport name as they are both issued by the Japanese government.
- PR Card Discrepancy: It is common for a Canadian PR Card to show a different name (e.g., a married name) than your Japanese Passport. If the names do not match, your PR Card cannot be used as sole proof of your 10-year residency.
- Required Action: If your PR Card name differs from your Passport, you must visit the Japanese Embassy or Consulate to obtain a "Copy of Overseas Residential Registration" (Zairyutodoke no Utsushi). This document will verify your residency history under your legal Japanese name.
Important: You must obtain the "Copy of Overseas Residential Registration" or "Certificate of Overseas Residence" from the Consulate BEFORE you purchase your JR Pass Exchange Order from JTB Canada. We are required to confirm your eligibility under the correct name at the time of issue.
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