Moving to Japan involves several unique procedures and cultural differences.
Our team has compiled answers to the most common inquiries we receive from clients to help clarify the relocation process in Japan.
If you cannot find the answer to your specific question here, please contact our team directly for personalized assistance.
Foreign nationals staying in Japan for more than 3 months are generally required to register their address at the local municipal office within 14 days of moving into their residence.
My Number is Japan’s individual identification number used for tax, social security, and administrative procedures. After registering your address, your My Number will be issued and mailed to your registered address.
To sign up for a mobile phone plan, you will usually need a Residence Card, passport, Japanese address, and a bank account or credit card. We can help you choose a suitable provider and complete the application.
Most Japanese banks have restrictions on opening accounts for foreign nationals who have been in Japan for less than six months. However, some banks may allow account opening upon arrival if the required documents, such as an employment certificate, are provided. We can assist you in identifying a suitable bank and preparing the necessary documents.
Japan remains largely a cash-based society, especially for smaller purchases and in rural areas. It’s advisable to carry cash.
English is available in many business settings and major cities, but it is less common in everyday situations. Our multilingual team can provide language support during important appointments when needed.
Waste separation and collection rules vary depending on your local municipality. In general, household waste is divided into categories such as burnable waste, non-burnable waste, recyclable materials (including cans, bottles, PET bottles, and cardboard), and oversized waste. Each category has designated collection days and disposal procedures. Many municipalities also provide multilingual guides for foreign residents.
The timeline depends on your location, budget, and housing requirements. In many cases, it takes between three to five weeks to complete the property search, application, lease execution, and move-in process.
Most residential properties in Japan are rented unfurnished. Depending on your assignment, we can assist with furniture rental or purchasing household essentials.
In addition to the monthly rent, tenants are typically required to pay several upfront fees, which may include a security deposit, key money, agency fees, advance rent, fire insurance, and a guarantor company fee. Initial costs generally range from four to six months’ rent, depending on the property.
Key money is a non-refundable gratuity paid to the landlord upon signing a lease, a unique custom in the Japanese real estate market.
Yes, most landlords require a guarantor. If your company cannot act as one, we can assist in arranging a guarantor company.
Utility setup requirements vary by property. We can assist with arranging electricity, gas, and water services to help ensure your home is ready when you move in.
Yes. Most residential lease agreements in Japan are for a two-year term, and many require a renewal fee when the lease is extended. Depending on the property and region, the renewal fee is commonly equivalent to one or two months’ rent.
Properties that allow pets or musical instruments are relatively limited in Japan. The selection is more restricted, and finding a suitable property may take longer than a standard home search. If you have specific requirements, we recommend informing us as early as possible so we can help identify appropriate options.
Yes. We can provide information on international schools, assist with school selection based on your preferred location and your family’s needs and arrange school tours if needed.
Depending on your nationality, you may be able to drive in Japan with a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) for up to one year after your arrival. If you plan to stay longer, you may need to convert your foreign driver’s license to a Japanese driver’s license. The required procedures vary depending on the country where your license was issued. Our team can guide you through the applicable procedures.
Dial 110 for police emergencies and 119 for fire or ambulance services. In many major cities, emergency call centers have multilingual support available, including English, often through interpreter services or three-way telephone interpretation. However, the availability of language support may vary depending on your location.
