House Contracts in Japan: A Complete Guide for Foreign Residents

House Contracts in Japan: A Complete Guide for Foreign Residents 


Renting an apartment or house in Japan can be challenging for foreigners because of unique systems like key money (礼金) and guarantor requirements.
This guide explains everything you need to know before signing a housing contract in Japan.

🏡 Types of Housing Contracts in Japan

賃貸契約 (Chintai Keiyaku / Rental Contract)

  • Standard rental agreement for apartments or houses

  • Usually 2 years, renewable

マンスリーマンション (Monthly Apartment)

  • Short-term rental, often furnished

  • Popular with students, interns, and business travelers

シェアハウス (Share House)

  • Shared living space, usually cheaper

  • Lower initial costs and easier application process

👉 Related: Cost of Living in Japan for Foreigners

💰 Initial Costs (Move-in Fees)

Renting in Japan often requires multiple payments upfront:

  • 敷金 (Shikikin / Deposit): 1–2 months’ rent (refundable, minus damages)

  • 礼金 (Reikin / Key Money): 1–2 months’ rent (non-refundable)

  • 仲介手数料 (Agency Fee): Usually 1 month’s rent

  • 前家賃 (Advance Rent): First month’s rent upfront

👉 Total upfront cost = 4–6 months’ rent

💡 Pro Tip: Budget carefully before moving to avoid surprises.

📄 Documents Required for Foreign Residents

To rent in Japan, you’ll usually need:

  • Residence Card (在留カード)

  • Passport

  • Proof of income (salary certificate, bank statement)

  • Emergency contact / Guarantor (保証人)

    • If no guarantor, you may need a guarantor company (保証会社)

👉 Related: Banking in Japan for Foreigners

📑 Important Rules in Japanese Housing Contracts

  • Contract Length: Usually 2 years, renewal requires a fee (更新料 = 1 month rent)

  • Guarantor Requirement: A must for most contracts

  • No Early Termination: Some contracts penalize leaving before 1 year

  • House Rules: Garbage separation, noise, pets, smoking rules may apply

🌍 Tips for Foreigners Renting in Japan

✅ Look for “外国人OK” (Foreigner-Friendly) listings
✅ Use English-speaking real estate agencies
✅ Consider monthly apartments if guarantor is an issue
✅ Always check cancellation policies and renewal fees

✅ Conclusion

Renting in Japan is stricter than in many countries, with higher upfront costs and mandatory guarantors.
But with the right documents, preparation, and knowledge, you can smoothly secure housing and enjoy your stay in Japan.

👉 Related: How to Open a Bank Account in Japan

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