Planning to rent an apartment in Japan?
You may wonder what documents you need to prepare.
Japanese rental applications often require several documents.
These documents confirm your identity, visa, work, or school status.
The required documents can vary by property and management company.
Your visa type and employment status may also affect the requirements.
This guide explains the documents to rent an apartment in Japan.
It is designed to help foreign residents prepare for renting in Japan.
What Documents Do Foreigners Need to Rent in Japan?
There is no single document list for every rental property in Japan.
Requirements vary by landlord, management company, and guarantor company.
However, you may be asked to provide the following:
- Residence card
- Passport
- Photo for identification
- Employment information
- Proof of income
- Student ID or admission letter
- Emergency contact information
- Japanese phone number
- Certificate of residence
Not every applicant will need all of these documents.
Always check the requirements before applying for an apartment.
1. Residence Card
Your residence card is an important document for renting in Japan.
Many rental applications require a copy of your residence card.
It shows your name, visa status, and period of stay in Japan.
You may need to submit both the front and back of the card.
Make sure all text on the card is clear and easy to read.
You may not have a residence card before arriving in Japan.
In that case, ask if other documents can be used instead.
2. Passport
Your passport is another common identification document.
It can be especially important when applying from overseas.
Prepare a clear copy of the page with your personal information.
Your name should match the spelling used on your application.
Check your passport carefully before submitting your application.
3. Identification Photo
Some companies may ask you to submit a photo of your face.
The photo should clearly show your face for identification.
A photo taken with a smartphone may sometimes be accepted.
Follow any photo requirements given by the management company.
4. Employment Information
Working applicants may need to provide employment information.
This can include your company name and company phone number.
You may also need to provide your job type and employment status.
An employment certificate may be requested in some cases.
Are you starting a new job after moving to Japan?
An employment contract or job offer letter may be accepted.
The exact requirements depend on the rental screening process.
5. Proof of Income
Proof of income may be required during rental screening.
This helps confirm your ability to pay the rent.
Examples may include:
- Payslips
- Withholding tax certificate
- Tax certificate
- Employment contract
- Job offer letter
The accepted documents depend on the company reviewing your application.
New employees may not have Japanese payslips yet.
Ask whether an employment contract can be used instead.
6. Documents for International Students
International students may need to submit a student ID.
New students may not have their student ID yet.
An admission letter may be accepted in some cases.
You may also need to provide information about your school.
This can include the school name, address, and phone number.
Keep your admission documents if you are applying from overseas.
7. Emergency Contact Information
An emergency contact is often required for rental applications.
This person is contacted if an emergency or problem occurs.
You may need to provide their name and phone number.
Their address and relationship to you may also be required.
Some applications require an emergency contact living in Japan.
Others may allow a family member who lives overseas.
Check the requirements before submitting your application.
An emergency contact is not the same as a guarantor.
8. Japanese Phone Number
A Japanese phone number may be required for some applications.
A guarantor company may call you during the screening process.
Answer calls after applying whenever possible.
You may not have a Japanese number before arriving in Japan.
In that case, ask whether an overseas number can be used.
9. Certificate of Residence
A certificate of residence may be required for some contracts.
In Japanese, this document is called a “Juminhyo.”
You can obtain it after completing your address registration.
The timing of submission depends on your rental contract.
Check whether you need one before requesting the document.
What Do Working Holiday Applicants Need?
Working holiday residents can also rent apartments in Japan.
A residence card and passport may be required for identification.
However, you may not have a job when you first arrive.
Tell the real estate agent about your current situation.
Rental screening requirements vary between properties.
Some properties may be easier for working holiday residents to apply for.
Can I Apply for an Apartment Before Arriving in Japan?
Some properties accept rental applications from overseas.
This can help you secure housing before arriving in Japan.
However, not every property accepts applications before arrival.
You may not have a residence card or Japanese phone number yet.
Other documents may be accepted depending on the property.
These may include your passport or visa-related documents.
School admission documents may be accepted for students.
Employment documents may be required if you are coming for work.
Ask whether overseas applications are accepted before applying.
Tips for a Smooth Rental Application in Japan
Preparing your documents early can make the process easier.
Keep these points in mind before submitting your application.
- Use the same spelling for your name.
Match your application with your passport and residence card. - Submit clear document images.
Make sure all text and photos are easy to read. - Prepare your work or school information.
Check the address and phone number in advance. - Prepare an emergency contact.
Ask the person before using their contact information. - Respond during the screening process.
You may receive a confirmation call after applying.
These steps can help make your application process smoother.
You May Be Asked for Additional Documents
You may need to submit extra documents during screening.
This does not only happen to foreign applicants.
The company may need more information to review your application.
Respond quickly if additional information is requested.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do foreigners need a residence card to rent in Japan?
A residence card is commonly required for residents in Japan.
However, applicants overseas may not have one yet.
Some properties may accept other documents before your arrival.
Can I rent an apartment before arriving in Japan?
Yes, some properties accept applications from overseas.
However, not every landlord or property allows this.
You may need a passport and visa-related documents.
Students may also need school admission documents.
Can I rent in Japan without a job?
It depends on the property and screening requirements.
Students and working holiday residents may have different conditions.
Tell your real estate agent about your situation before applying.
Does my emergency contact need to be Japanese?
Not necessarily.
The requirements depend on the property and guarantor company.
Some companies require an emergency contact living in Japan.
Others may accept a family member living overseas.
Is an emergency contact the same as a guarantor?
No. They have different roles.
An emergency contact is used when someone needs to contact you.
A guarantor may have legal or financial duties under the contract.
What documents do international students need?
Students may need a residence card and passport.
A student ID may also be required.
New students may be able to use an admission letter instead.
Conclusion: Prepare Your Rental Documents Early
The documents to rent an apartment in Japan can vary.
Your visa, job, school, and rental property can affect the requirements.
Common documents include your residence card and passport.
You may also need proof of work, income, or school enrollment.
Emergency contact information may also be required.
Applicants overseas may have different document requirements.
Always check what you need before starting your application.
Preparing early can make renting in Japan much easier.
Looking for a Foreigner-Friendly Apartment in Japan?
willow helps foreign residents find apartments in Japan.
We can help you search for foreigner-friendly rental properties.
We also support people looking for housing before arriving in Japan.
Not sure which rental documents you need?
Confused by the Japanese rental process?
Please feel free to contact willow.
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