How to Get a Phone & SIM Card in Japan [2026]
- As long as you have a residence card, foreign residents can sign up for a phone plan, and applying online can get you connected as soon as the same day.
- Some carriers let you sign up even without a credit card.
- The article explains what you need to sign up, compares major plans, and covers how to choose and points to watch out for.
A phone line is one of the first things you need after arriving. With a residence card, foreigners can sign up — online applications can be active the same day, and some carriers work without a credit card.
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Domestic pocket Wi-Fi rental for your first days — before your residence card or SIM [Wifi Rental-ya-san]
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1. What you need
- Residence card (address must match where you live; for online sign-up you photograph the front and back for eKYC)
- Payment method: usually a credit card. Rakuten Mobile also accepts bank transfer and debit cards; GTN Mobile accepts cash payment at convenience stores
- (If keeping your number) an MNP reservation number or one-stop MNP
2. Plan comparison (as of June 2026)
| Carrier | Monthly (tax incl.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rakuten Mobile | 3GB 1,078 yen - unlimited 3,278 yen | Unlimited data, free domestic calls via Rakuten Link, bank transfer OK |
| LINEMO | 3GB 990 yen / 30GB 2,970 yen | Fast SoftBank network, LINE does not use your data |
| ahamo | 30GB 2,970 yen | Docomo network, 5-min calls included |
| IIJmio | e.g. 25GB 2,000 yen | Fine-grained, cheap plans |
| LIBMO | 20GB 1,991 yen, etc. | Good value for larger data; data-only SIM available |
| GTN Mobile | varies | Made for foreigners: support in 13 languages, no credit card needed, apply before arrival and pick up at the airport |
| Goen Mobile | varies | No screening · bank transfer OK · refurbished phone bundle · short-term plans from 2 months |
3. Which one to pick
- Worried about Japanese-language support → GTN Mobile (13 languages) or Rakuten Mobile
- Cheapest → LINEMO or IIJmio
- Heavy data / video → Rakuten Mobile (unlimited)
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Unlimited data, bank-transfer payment OK, and you can earn Rakuten Points [Rakuten Mobile]. Domestic calls are free with the Rakuten Link app.
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Applications and procedures are generally conducted in Japanese.
4. Online sign-up flow
- Choose a plan on the official site
- Photograph and upload your residence card (eKYC)
- Register a payment method
- Receive the SIM (eSIM can be active the same day)
5. Things to know
- Carrier shops often push expensive plans and options — online sign-up is cheaper and safer
- Two-year lock-ins and big cancellation fees have largely been abolished
- For phones brought from home, check they are SIM-free and have the Giteki mark (Japanese radio certification)
When visiting your home country or traveling abroad, see our guide on overseas Wi-Fi & eSIM options.
6. Already have a phone? Switching carriers (MNP) for cashback
If you already have a Japanese mobile number, you can switch to another carrier while keeping your number (MNP). Carriers sometimes run cashback or other campaigns when you switch, but the details and amounts vary by timing, sign-up channel, and plan. Always check the latest conditions on the official site or sign-up window.
- Since 2023, more carriers support MNP One Stop, so in many cases you no longer need an MNP reservation number from your old carrier.
- Two-year lock-ins and high cancellation fees have largely been abolished, lowering the hurdle to switch.
- Cashback usually comes with conditions (eligible plans, sign-up route, period, etc.).
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No screening needed — Goen Mobile budget SIM
- No credit card required, no screening
- Bank transfer and cash payment accepted
- Option to bundle with a refurbished smartphone
- Short-term plans available from 2 months
FAQ
Can I sign up without a credit card?Yes. Rakuten Mobile accepts bank transfer and debit cards, and GTN Mobile accepts cash payment at convenience stores.
Can I get a SIM if my period of stay is short?It depends on the carrier. If your remaining stay is short, use a foreigner-focused service such as GTN Mobile, or renew your visa first.
Can I apply before arriving in Japan?Yes — GTN Mobile lets you apply before arrival and pick up the SIM at a Japanese airport.
When you move in, don't forget to set up your electricity, gas and water too.
Sources
* Rules may change. Please check official sites for the latest information.
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