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Housing & property

Can I rent an apartment in Japan as a foreigner?

YES, BUT

Yes. Foreigners can rent apartments in Japan, but private landlords and guarantor companies can impose screening requirements.

VerifiedPrimary topic verifiedLast checked: 18 Aug 2026

What you need to know

Requirements & exceptions
  • Rental approval is private-contract screening, not an immigration benefit.
  • Expect ID/residence, income/funding and emergency-contact checks.
  • Property-specific rules can be stricter than general law.
Documents
  • ID / residence card
  • Proof of income or funds
  • Emergency contact / guarantor information if requested
Likely cost
No government application fee to rent. Private move-in costs can include first rent, deposit, key money, agency fee, guarantor fee, insurance and lock/cleaning charges, depending on the property.
Where to act
Landlord / real-estate agent / property manager and the designated rent-guarantee company; municipal foreign-resident housing support if needed.
Official sources
MLIT — Rental Housing Support / Foreign ResidentsMinistry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism · Official source

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