Housing & property
Can I rent out property while living overseas?
Yes. Non-resident owners can rent out Japanese property, but Japanese rental income remains Japanese-source income and non-resident tax/agent procedures can apply.
VerifiedPrimary topic verifiedLast checked: 18 Aug 2026
What you need to know
Requirements & exceptions
- You may need a Japanese tax representative.
- Certain rent payments to non-resident landlords can be subject to withholding.
- Use a local property manager if you cannot handle tenant/maintenance issues.
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.