Housing & property
Can I share an apartment with a friend in Japan?
Yes if the landlord approves all occupants. Do not move in an undeclared roommate if the lease restricts occupancy.
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
- Identity documents
- Purchase/contract documents
- Source-of-funds evidence where 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.