【Full Guide】How to Rent an Apartment in Japan as a Foreigner

Renting in Japan as a foreigner has unique challenges. This guide covers everything from finding an agent to signing the contract.

① Documents to Prepare

• Residence Card (required)
• Passport
• Juminhyo (resident registration certificate)
• Proof of income (3 months of pay slips)
• Personal seal (hanko)

② Finding Foreigner-Friendly Properties

• SUUMO / HOME'S: Filter for "foreigners welcome"
• Foreigner-specialist agencies: Language support + application help

③ The Rental Process

1. Contact agency and schedule viewing
2. View the property
3. Submit application form
4. Guarantor screening (1-3 business days)
5. Sign contract and pay initial fees
6. Receive keys and move in

④ Initial Costs

Expect to pay 4-6 months of rent upfront:

• Security deposit: 1-2 months
• Key money: 1-2 months (often zero now)
• First month's rent
• Agency fee: 1 month + tax