Housing & property
Can I rent an apartment in Japan with a spouse as the only income earner?
Possibly. 'a spouse as the only income earner' is not a single statutory yes/no rental rule in Japan; the practical decision is made through the landlord/guarantor screening and lease terms. For this specific factor, prepare evidence that addresses payment ability, residence continuity or occupancy risk, because those are the issues it is most likely to affect.
VerifiedPrimary framework reviewedLast checked: V2.5 framework reviewed
What you need to know
Requirements & exceptions
- Private rental screening varies.
- Lease terms control occupancy and use.
Documents
- Identity/residence documents
- Income or funds evidence
- Guarantor/emergency-contact information if requested
Likely cost
Move-in costs can include rent, deposit, key money, agency fee, guarantor fee and insurance.
Where to act
Landlord / real-estate agent / property manager / guarantor company.
Official sources
Standard Residential Lease AgreementMinistry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism · Official sourcePrivate Rental Housing — Standard Contract / Dispute PreventionMinistry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism · Official sourceMLIT — Rental Housing Support / Foreign ResidentsMinistry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism · Official source