Many foreign nationals feel that renting in Japan is a high hurdle, but with proper preparation, your approval chances increase significantly. We'll explain five essential points—organizing your immigration status, preparing income documentation, selecting a guarantor company, choosing a real estate agency, and more—with specific, actionable guidance.
Reviewed by: Nobuyuki Mori
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In Japan's rental market, it is not uncommon for foreigners to experience being denied rental housing. According to a 2020 Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism survey, approximately 40% of foreigners reported experiencing rental application rejection. However, with proper preparation, your approval rate increases significantly.
This article covers five key points to help foreigners rent in Japan, explaining specific action steps and precautions in an easy-to-understand manner.
The main reasons landlords are cautious about foreign tenants are as follows:
While some of these concerns are based on bias, they are real hurdles that exist in the market. Conversely, addressing each concern can significantly improve your approval chances.
The first priority is to clarify your immigration status. What reviewers most want to know is "How long can this person stay in Japan?"
When submitting your residence card copy, attach a written summary of your immigration status, visa duration, and renewal prospects to help reviewers better understand your situation.
Proving stable income through documentation is the most critical factor for approval.
Following the rule of keeping rent at one-third or less of your monthly income increases approval chances. For example, if your monthly income is ¥200,000, aim for rent of ¥70,000 or less.
Many foreigners lack a joint guarantor in Japan, but nowadays most properties allow you to move in without a guarantor by using a guarantor company.
It's important to tell your real estate agent: "Please focus on showing me properties that use guarantor companies accepting foreign applicants."
UR rental properties require no guarantor or key money, and foreigners can apply. While rent is at market rate, approval is easier if you meet the income standard (monthly income at least 4 times the rent).
Selecting a real estate agency experienced with foreign renters saves time and effort.
Community-based agencies specializing in "services for foreigners" or offering "multilingual support" often have more experience with foreign tenant approvals than large brokerage firms.
Japanese rental contracts contain many technical terms and are difficult to understand even for fluent Japanese speakers. Make sure you fully understand the entire agreement before signing.
The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism publishes multilingual versions of the "Important Matters Explanation Document" (in English, Chinese, etc.)—make use of these. You also have the right to request an explanation from a licensed real estate agent.
Renting in Japan is not impossible. With thorough preparation and research, you can find your ideal property. We hope this article helps you in your search.
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