Get a Japan Phone Number: Easy Guide

Key Takeaways

Mobile access is essential: In 2026, having a Japanese phone number is practically a necessity for foreign residents – it’s needed for apartment rentals, banking, and daily life verification codes.

ID and visa are required: A Residence Card (在留カード) and a visa longer than 90 days are generally mandatory to sign up for any long-term mobile plan. Without these, your options are limited to prepaid SIMs.

Prepare for upfront costs: A typical mobile plan costs around ¥1,000–¥3,000 per month for basic data packages, while unlimited full-service plans can run ¥4,000–¥5,000+ monthly. Expect a one-time activation fee (~¥3,300) with major carriers (often waived for online plans).

Payment method is critical: Most carriers require a credit card or Japanese bank account in your name for billing. If you don’t have one, you’ll need to seek providers that accept alternative payments (e.g. convenience store bills).

New 2020s trends: Recent government reforms have increased competition – major carriers launched cheaper online-only plans (ahamo, LINEMO, povo) with no long-term contracts. Also, SIM locking has been largely eliminated, and number portability fees were scrapped, making it easier in 2026 to switch providers for better deals.

Why Getting a Phone Number in Japan Matters in 2026

Securing a phone number is one of the first hurdles for newcomers in Japan’s increasingly digital society. Macro context: Japan’s foreign resident population hit a record 3.95 million in 2025, and the government has pushed to lower mobile costs, recognizing that connectivity is vital infrastructure. A local number is now required for everything from opening bank accounts to renting apartments – tasks that reflect Japan’s emphasis on verified contact information. At the same time, smartphones have become indispensable for navigation, cashless payments, and even accessing public services. Contrast with the past: A decade ago, many foreigners struggled with strict two-year contracts and language barriers at carrier shops. Today, in 2026, the landscape is more flexible: contracts can be month-to-month with no penalties, and several providers offer English support and online signup, making it much easier (and cheaper) for foreign residents to get connected. All these changes mean obtaining a Japanese phone number is not just bureaucratic paperwork – it’s a key step to fully participate in modern life here.

Mobile Plan Options for Foreign Residents

When planning to get a phone number in Japan, it’s important to understand the types of mobile services available and choose the one that fits your situation:

Prepaid SIM Cards (短期プリペイド): If you’re newly arrived or on a short visa (under 90 days), a prepaid SIM is often the only choice. These require no long-term contract or screening – you can buy a SIM for cash at airports or electronics stores with just your passport. Prepaid SIMs come loaded with a set amount of data/voice and simply expire or run out when you’ve used what you paid for. Pros: instant access, no paperwork, great for short stays. Cons: higher cost per GB and typically no Japanese phone number for voice/SMS (some tourist SIMs are data-only). For example, “Japan Travel SIM” or similar cards let you get online immediately but won’t help for receiving SMS verification codes since they often lack a local number.

Postpaid Contract Plans (契約プラン): These are the traditional plans from major carriers like NTT docomo, au (KDDI), SoftBank, and newer entrant Rakuten Mobile. As a foreign resident with a long-term visa, you can sign up for these monthly-billed plans which come with a Japanese phone number and various data packages. Pros: Reliable network quality, unlimited or large data options, and the ability to get a new phone bundled (on installments). Cons: Requires more paperwork and usually a binding agreement (though as of 2021, carriers have largely removed 2-year lock-in penalties). You’ll need to pass a credit check and commit to paying monthly; if you stop paying (e.g. leave Japan suddenly), it could affect your credit or incur fees. Full-service plans with unlimited data and calls typically cost around ¥4,000–¥5,000 per month, but they offer the convenience of stores nationwide and robust support. Major carriers also have sub-brands (Y!mobile, UQ mobile, LINEMO, etc.) that offer slightly cheaper plans with less frills.

SIM-Only Monthly Plans (格安SIM, MVNO plans): Many foreign residents opt for SIM-only plans provided by MVNOs (Mobile Virtual Network Operators) or the discount brands of the big carriers. These are month-to-month services where you bring your own device and just get a SIM card (or eSIM) for service. There’s no phone subsidized in the contract. Pros: Much cheaper – for instance, you can find plans ~¥1,000/month for a small data allowance, and even unlimited data plans like Rakuten’s for ¥3,278. Many have no long-term commitment (cancel any time with no fee). Cons: These services are primarily online and often in Japanese only; customer support may be limited. Also, at peak times their network speeds can be slower because they rent capacity from the big carriers. For long-term residents who don’t need a new handset, SIM-only plans offer great value and flexibility. Popular options include Rakuten Mobile, IIJmio, Mobal, Sakura Mobile, LINEMO, ahamo, etc., some of which cater specifically to foreigners with English websites.

Tip: If you plan to stay over a year, a month-to-month SIM-only plan or a standard contract will be more cost-effective than continuously buying prepaid SIMs. Prepaid is best used as a stopgap for the first few weeks until you settle documents. Once you have your Residence Card and a bank account, you can switch to a proper monthly plan to get a local number (important for things like banking OTP codes and job contacts). Always check that your phone is unlocked (SIMフリー) before using a Japanese SIM – phones bought overseas should be carrier-unlocked to accept a new SIM.

Eligibility and Documents You’ll Need

To sign up for a mobile phone number in Japan as a foreign resident, you must prepare several documents and meet certain conditions. Generally, the requirements for foreigners are the same across all major carriers and many MVNOs:

Residence Card (在留カード) + Passport: This is the primary ID combination. All major carriers will ask for a valid Residence Card (which proves you’re a mid-to-long term resident) along with your passport. The Residence Card has your photo, address in Japan, name, birthdate, and visa status. Importantly, you only receive a Residence Card if your permitted stay is over 90 days, which effectively means short-term tourists cannot get a regular phone contract. (Tourists should use prepaid SIMs or rental phones.) If you have Special Permanent Resident status, the Special Permanent Resident Certificate can serve as ID on its own. A diplomat ID is also accepted at some carriers. Make sure your Residence Card has your current address updated on the back; if not, you may need to provide proof of your address (see next bullet).

Proof of Address (住居証明書類): If the address on your Residence Card is not up-to-date or if the carrier specifically requires it (docomo often does), you’ll need a supplemental document showing your address. Acceptable documents include a recent 住民票 (resident record) from city hall or a utility bill (electricity, water, etc.) with your name and address, dated within the last 3 months. This is to verify you actually reside at a Japanese address. Some carriers like au even mention an “Evacuation Shelter Certificate” as an option if you have registered an address but it’s marked as temporary – an edge case scenario. In summary, be prepared to show where you live.

Visa Duration Consideration: Carriers will check your period of stay. They generally will not allow an installment payment contract that runs beyond your authorized stay*. For example, if your visa expires in 1 year, you might be denied a 24-month phone installment plan – you could still get the plan but would need to pay the device in full or over 12 months instead. While you can get a phone plan even if your visa is short (3–12 months), note that if your remaining visa validity is under ~90 days, carriers like docomo and au will require you to pay with a credit card (no option for monthly bank debit). This is to ensure they can collect payment from overseas if you leave. Always check your visa dates and be aware you might need to renew or show proof of extension for longer contracts.

Payment Method (支払い方法): You must register a payment method at signup – usually a credit card (Visa/MasterCard, etc.) or a Japanese bank account for direct debit, in your own name. If you haven’t opened a bank account yet, a credit card (even foreign-issued, if it works in Japan) can suffice for many providers. However, note that not all foreign credit cards are accepted; some MVNOs only accept Japanese-issued credit cards. If you truly have neither, a few services allow alternative arrangements: for instance, certain MVNOs or rental phone services will let you pay bills at convenience stores or by furikomi bank transfer, but these are exceptions rather than the norm. Tip: Set up your bank account as soon as you can, and consider getting a Japanese credit card if you’ll be here long-term. It will smooth out not just phone contracts but many other services.

Optional – Proof of Employment or Income: Generally not required just to get a SIM and number, except if you plan to buy a phone on installment (分割払い). In that case, the carrier is extending you a loan for the device, so they might do a credit check. Some carriers may ask for proof of income or employability, especially if the phone is high-end. For example, if a newcomer with no job tries to buy a ¥150,000 iPhone on a 36-month installment, there’s a chance the application could be denied or additional documents requested. Also, as mentioned, the installment length cannot exceed your visa length. If you’re a student with no income, you can still get a SIM card (service contract), but you might fail the screening to purchase a phone on contract. In those cases, be prepared to either pay full price up front or use a cheaper phone.

In summary, for any long-term phone plan in Japan you will need at minimum: a residence ID, a local address, and a way to pay bills electronically. Ensure your names match on all documents (your bank account name should match your ID, etc. – middle name inconsistencies can cause hiccups). If you have everything in order, the process will go much more smoothly.

Choosing a Mobile Provider (Major Carriers vs. MVNOs)

Japan has a multitude of mobile providers, but they can be broadly divided into the four major network operators and dozens of MVNOs (which piggyback on the big networks). Here’s how to navigate the choice:

The Big Four: NTT docomo, au (KDDI), SoftBank, and Rakuten Mobile are the network owners. The first three are long-established telecom giants, and Rakuten joined as a full network operator more recently (around 2020). If you value coverage and speed, these are generally the best – especially in rural areas, the big carriers have more reliable signal. They also have physical shops across Japan, which can be helpful if you prefer in-person service (Docomo Shops, au Shops, SoftBank Shops). Each of these carriers has similar requirements for foreigners, as outlined above, with a few minor differences in procedure:

SoftBank: Accepts Residence Card + Passport for ID. They explicitly note that the ID must have a photo, address, name, and birthdate that match your application (so update your Residence Card address!). SoftBank will not allow device installments that exceed your period of stay – if your visa is short, any phone payments must finish before it expires.

NTT Docomo: Requires Residence Card + Passport plus a supplemental proof of address (utility bill or Juminhyo) for foreigners. They also enforce the rule against installments beyond your stay. Another Docomo quirk: if you can’t present a Residence Card (or if your remaining visa term is under 3 months), they insist that you pay by credit card – no bank debit in those cases. So, for Docomo, having a credit card can be important if you’re near visa expiration.

au (KDDI): Similar to SoftBank, requires Residence Card + Passport or Special Permanent Resident ID. If your Residence Card says “住所未定” (no address yet, which can happen if you just landed and haven’t registered city hall), au will ask for proof of address (utility bill, etc.) once you do have one. With less than 90 days on your visa, au also mandates credit card payment. For device financing, au allows it but with conditions: you must show a document confirming your visa end date and a credit card, and they disallow foreigners from doing the ultra-long 60 or 72-month installments (which some carriers offer to spread out costs). Essentially, you’re limited to 24 or 36-month installments max, and again not beyond your stay.

Rakuten Mobile: Newer but popular for its cheap unlimited plan (~¥3,278/month). They require a Residence Card or similar ID (Special Permanent or Diplomat ID). If your address isn’t current on your Residence Card, you must provide updated proof of address (just like others). Rakuten’s sign-up process is known to be quite foreigner-friendly and can be done online with an English option. They sometimes have fewer strict rules on visa length for SIM-only service, but for device financing Rakuten would follow the general practice of not exceeding visa period. Note: Rakuten’s own network is still growing; in some regions they rely on partner networks (au) which your phone switches to automatically. Check coverage maps if you live outside a major city.

MVNOs and Discount Brands: These include companies like IIJmio, Y!mobile (SoftBank sub-brand), UQ mobile (au sub-brand), LINEMO (SoftBank online brand), povo (au online brand), and others like Mobal, Sakura Mobile, GTN Mobile, Bic SIM, etc. They all use one of the big four’s networks behind the scenes. The advantage is cost: MVNO plans can be very cheap (e.g. ¥900 for 3 GB data). Many have no store presence – you order online or at electronics retailers (Bic Camera, Yodobashi, etc., have counters for certain MVNO SIMs). The documentation required is usually the same (Residence Card, etc.), but the screening might be simpler. For example, some MVNOs don’t run as strict a credit check if you use a credit card for payment. Also, MVNOs often don’t tie you into contracts, so you can cancel any time with no fee. This is great if you’re unsure about your long-term plans. The downside is support: many budget providers have Japanese-only customer service. A few exceptions cater to foreigners – for instance, Mobal and Sakura Mobile provide English support and are used often by expats (Mobal even allows people on tourist visas to get a SIM that has a phone number, by paying upfront). If Japanese is a concern, look for an operator with multilingual support or bring a friend to help with the initial setup.

Cost Comparison: As a rule of thumb, full-service carriers charge more but provide more. A big 30GB or unlimited data plan from Docomo/au/SoftBank can easily be ¥5,000 a month (though their new online sub-brands offer similar data for around ¥3,000). Meanwhile, an MVNO might charge ~¥2,000 for 20GB or under ¥1,000 for a small 3GB plan. The trade-off can be speed: at busy times (like rush hour), MVNO users may notice slower data because the major carriers prioritize their own subscribers on the network. If you need constant high-speed connectivity (e.g., for work or streaming), a major carrier or its sub-brand might be worth the extra cost. If you mainly use your phone for messaging, email, and occasional YouTube, a budget SIM will do the job at a fraction of the price.

Finally, consider contract length and flexibility: Nearly all providers now offer plans with no fixed term. Avoid any that try to lock you in for 2 years – these have become rare after regulators cracked down on cancellation fees. As a foreigner, it’s wise to stay flexible in case your circumstances change. Thankfully, in 2026 you can have flexibility and keep your number: Japan’s number portability (MNP) system allows you to take your phone number with you when switching carriers, usually for a small fee (recently made free or very low by law). So don’t feel you’ll lose your number if you later find a better deal.

How to Sign Up: In-Store vs. Online

Once you’ve picked a provider and prepared your documents, you have two main avenues to actually get your new SIM card and phone number: going to a shop in person, or signing up online. Each approach has its own process and considerations:

Signing Up at a Carrier Store: This is the traditional way and can be reassuring if you want human assistance. Major carriers (and some MVNOs that have store partnerships) have retail locations where staff will handle the paperwork for you. For example, you can walk into a Docomo, au, or SoftBank shop (or electronics store counter for MVNOs) and apply on the spot. The representative will photocopy your Residence Card and passport, have you fill in or sign forms (in Japanese – bring someone along if you’re not comfortable with the language), and help choose a plan. The benefit is that they will ensure everything is in order and even set up your phone for you. Many stores can put the SIM in your phone, configure the APN (network settings), and test that calls/data work before you leave. They might also try to upsell services (like insurance, or bundling a home internet or tablet), so be prepared to say no if you don’t need those. Plan for the process to take 1–2 hours especially if it’s a busy day – there can be waiting time and lots of form entry. One potential pitfall is the language barrier: outside of big cities or dedicated expat services, the staff may speak only Japanese. Some shops have an iPad translation system or English-speaking staff on certain days. Don’t be afraid to ask, “英語で対応できますか？” (Eigo de taiou dekimasu ka? – “Is English support available?”). SoftBank and Docomo in central Tokyo, for instance, often have bilingual staff schedules. Bringing a Japanese friend or using a translation app can help avoid misunderstandings, like accidentally signing up for an expensive optional service.

Signing Up Online: With the rise of online-only plans, it’s now very common to get your SIM without ever visiting a store. Providers like Rakuten Mobile, ahamo (Docomo), LINEMO (SoftBank), povo (au) are designed for web sign-ups. Many MVNOs also let you apply online through their website (though not all have English interfaces). The general flow is: you fill out a web form with your personal info, upload scans or photos of your Residence Card and passport for identity verification, and provide your credit card or bank info for payment. After submission, there’s usually a short wait (anywhere from a few minutes to a couple of days) for them to verify your documents. Once approved, they will ship a SIM card to your address (or in the case of eSIM, email you a QR code). You’ll receive the SIM in the mail, along with instructions. You might need to activate it via an online link or by inputting the SIM number on their site – instructions are usually included in English for the big providers. The obvious advantage of online signup is convenience: you can do it from home, any time, without dealing with wait times or business hours. It’s great if you’re busy with work or not near a carrier shop. It’s also often faster in the sense that you avoid the in-store paperwork; though you do wait for delivery, many companies offer next-day shipping. Drawbacks: You have to be comfortable following the instructions on your own. Setting up the SIM in your phone might require you to change some settings (APN configuration), which is usually a matter of installing the provider’s profile or entering a couple of values – if this is new to you, it can be a bit intimidating, but most providers have step-by-step guides. Also, support is remote – if something doesn’t work, you’ll be calling or chatting with customer service rather than having a person handle it in front of you. One more consideration: delivery address. When ordering a SIM online, you must have a reachable address in Japan (and often the name on the mailbox should match yours, for registered mail). If you’re brand new and staying at a hotel or Airbnb, check if you can receive mail there, or else opt for a convenience store pickup if the service offers it.

Real-world example: Recently, many foreign residents have been taking advantage of Rakuten Mobile’s easy online process. You can sign up via their English website, upload your Residence Card image, and they’ll deliver a SIM in as little as 2 days. Activation is done in an app, and you get a Japanese phone number with unlimited data for about ¥3,000/month. This saves a trip to a Rakuten counter and can be done even if you live in a smaller city without dedicated foreigner support. On the other hand, if you went with one of the smaller MVNOs that doesn’t have English instructions, you might prefer going to a Big Camera or Yodobashi Camera store where staff can handle the application in Japanese for you and just hand you the SIM.

Bottom line: Choose in-store if you value face-to-face help and immediate setup (especially if you need a phone handset as well). Choose online if you’re confident to handle minor tech steps and want to save time/money. Either way, once you have your SIM, you’ll soon be dialing and surfing – welcome to your new Japanese phone number!

Best Practices for a Smooth Setup

Getting a phone number in Japan can be straightforward if you avoid common pitfalls. Here are the top three mistakes foreign residents make, and how to prevent them:

Risk/Mistake	Impact (Why It’s a Problem)	How to Avoid It (Solution)
Overlooking contract limits – e.g. signing up for a 2-year phone installment that extends beyond your visa period, or not planning for cancellation if you leave early.	You could be denied for the phone purchase, or face hefty fees. If you had to leave Japan mid-contract, you might need to pay off the device or penalty fees in one go.	Plan within your stay: Choose month-to-month plans or shorter installment options that fit your visa timeline. If you expect to leave in a year or less, avoid long installments – pay upfront for the phone or get a used/unlocked device instead. This way you won’t be tied to payments you can’t fulfill. Also, favor carriers that have no cancellation fees, so ending the plan is hassle-free.
Language & understanding issues – not fully understanding the contract (in Japanese) and accidentally agreeing to unwanted services or an expensive plan.	You might end up with surprise charges for things you didn’t need (like extra data packages, device insurance, or even a new tablet you didn’t realize you agreed to). Once signed, you’re on the hook for those monthly fees. It can be time-consuming to cancel or rectify later.	Get support: Bring along a Japanese-speaking friend or ask the shop if an English-speaking staff is available. Take your time to read the plan details – use a translation app on the paperwork if needed. Don’t hesitate to say “No” to add-ons. Some carriers have dedicated phone support lines in English; you can call ahead to clarify anything you don’t get. The key is to ensure you know what you’re signing. If signing up online, use the English site version or translate pages in Chrome to avoid confusion.
Not preparing required documents/payment – showing up without a Residence Card, or lacking a valid credit card/bank account for payment.	This will halt your application. You’ll likely be turned away and told to come back with the proper documents. If you don’t have a payment method set, you can’t complete the contract and might resort to more expensive prepaid options. Delays in getting a phone mean delays in job hunting, apartment rental, etc., as many processes need a phone contact.	Do your homework: Before applying, double-check the documentation checklist. Ensure your Residence Card is updated (and not expired), and bring your passport as backup ID. Have a payment method ready – if you haven’t opened a bank account yet, use a credit card. If you only have a foreign credit card, verify it works in Japan (some prepaid credit cards or certain issuers might be declined). In case you truly have no card or local bank, consider signing up with services that accept convenience store payments as a temporary measure. In short, go to the shop (or proceed online) only when you have everything in hand to avoid multiple trips.

Additional Tip: Remember you don’t have to buy a new phone if you already have a good unlocked smartphone. A common mistake is assuming you must get a device from the carrier – in Japan, they often bundle phones with plans, but it’s not obligatory. If you’re offered a handset you don’t need, politely decline. Using your own device can save you a lot of money and also avoid the installment contract altogether.

Checklist: Getting Your Japanese Phone Number

Confirm your visa status and obtain a Residence Card. You must be a mid-to-long term resident (visa > 90 days) to get a standard phone contract. Upon arrival in Japan, immigration will issue your Residence Card – keep it safe, you’ll need it as ID.

Register your address at the city office. Go to your local ward/city hall and register your address within 14 days of moving in. This updates your Residence Card with your address, which is required by phone companies. Also sign up for National Health Insurance while you’re there (it’s unrelated to phones, but important as a new resident).

Open a bank account or have a credit card ready. As soon as you can, open a Japanese bank account (e.g. Japan Post Bank, Shinsei) – many banks let foreigners open an account after a few weeks in the country. Alternatively, ensure you have a credit card that works in Japan. This will be your payment method for the mobile plan. Without at least one of these, your choices of providers will be very limited.

Decide on the type of mobile plan you need. Are you looking for a long-term full service plan with a new phone, or just a cheap SIM for data? If you’re staying a year or more, a postpaid monthly plan (contract or MVNO) with a Japanese number is recommended. If you’re unsure about commitment, consider a no-contract SIM-only plan. For very short initial needs, note that prepaid SIMs can bridge the gap, but plan to switch if you remain long-term.

Compare providers and plans. Research the major carriers (Docomo, au, SoftBank, Rakuten) versus MVNOs (budget SIM providers). Consider factors like cost, data allowance, network coverage, and English support. For example, if you want English service, you might lean towards Rakuten or an expat-oriented provider like Mobal. If budget is king, look at MVNO deals (many are under ¥2,000/month). Use online plan comparison tools or visit a big electronics store where you can pick up brochures for different companies.

Ensure your phone is compatible (or plan to buy one). If you already have a smartphone, check that it’s unlocked from your previous carrier and supports Japanese network bands. Most modern iPhone and Android models do. If not, you may need to purchase a phone in Japan. Decide if you will buy it outright or get it on installments with your plan. Remember that installments might require a longer visa or good credit.

Gather all necessary documents. Before signing up, make a checklist:

• Residence Card (with updated address)
• Passport (some providers require the passport in addition to the Residence Card)
• Proof of address (utility bill or Juminhyo, if needed – often only required if your Residence Card doesn’t have your current address or for certain carriers like docomo)
• Credit card or bank book/ATM card for your account (for payment registration).
• Cash or credit card to pay any upfront fees (e.g., SIM activation fee or first month bill; usually around ¥3,000–¥5,000 total).

Having all these in hand will prevent delays.

Sign up for the plan – online or in person. If going to a store, take a ticket number and be prepared to explain what you want (or show a memo). Hand over your documents for verification. If applying online, fill in the forms carefully, in romaji (English letters) as instructed, and upload clear scans/photos of your Residence Card (front and back). Complete the payment info section as directed. Double-check everything before submitting.

Complete identity verification and contract finalization. In-store, this means the staff will check your ID, have you sign or stamp forms, and process your payment details on the spot. Online, you might receive an email confirmation and sometimes a phone call or SMS to verify details. Some online services may do an eKYC (electronic Know-Your-Customer) process where you take a selfie or video call to confirm your identity – follow the provider’s instructions. Once this step is passed, your contract is active.

Receive your SIM card (or eSIM) and activate it. At a shop, the staff will give you the SIM right away and often help set it up in your phone before you leave. For online, expect a delivery to your provided address – a small envelope with the SIM usually arrives within 1-3 days. If you opted for eSIM, you’ll get a QR code via email or on an account page. Follow the activation steps: for physical SIM, insert it into your phone’s SIM slot. For eSIM, scan the QR code in your phone’s settings to install the digital SIM. Providers often include a pamphlet with APN settings – you may need to enter an APN (Access Point Name) in your phone’s network settings or download their configuration profile. This step connects your phone to the carrier’s network.

Test your new number and connection. Once activated, make a test call (you can dial a friend or even your own number from another phone) to ensure voice works. Also send a test SMS and try using mobile data (turn off Wi-Fi and load a webpage or video). This confirms everything is set up correctly. If something isn’t working (no signal, etc.), contact the provider’s support – sometimes it’s a minor setting tweak.

Congratulations! You now have a working Japanese phone number. You can share this number with your contacts, and use it for things like receiving bank OTP texts, ordering deliveries, or as a contact on official forms. Keep track of your monthly billing (most carriers have an online portal or app) and remember to pay on time – usually auto-debit makes this effortless. You’re officially connected in Japan.

FAQ

Q1: Can foreigners get a phone number in Japan? – Yes, foreign residents can get a mobile phone number in Japan as long as they have a long-term visa and proper ID. You will need a Residence Card (for visas over 90 days) to sign up. Short-term visitors (tourists) cannot get a contract with a number, but they can use prepaid SIMs for data. Essentially, if you live in Japan legally, you have the same access to phone contracts as Japanese citizens – just prepare the required documents.

Q2: What documents are required to buy a SIM card or phone plan? – You’ll typically need to show your Residence Card and passport when signing up. If your current address isn’t on the Residence Card, also bring a proof of address like a recent utility bill or a resident record (住民票). Additionally, you must provide payment details, so have a credit card or Japanese bank account information ready. If you’re getting a phone on installments, proof of income might help, but it’s usually not required unless the phone is very expensive.

Q3: Can I get a phone plan without a credit card or bank account? – It’s tricky. Major carriers require a credit card or bank account in your name to set up automatic payments. If you don’t have either, a few MVNOs or services let you pay via convenience store bills or bank transfer, but those are exceptions (for example, some rental phone companies cater to people without credit cards). A safer approach is to open a basic Japan Post Bank account (easy for new foreigners) or use a debit card that is accepted like a credit card. Without any Japanese payment method, you’re likely limited to prepaid SIMs, which you top up with cash but they won’t give you a permanent number in many cases.

Q4: How much do mobile plans cost per month in Japan? – The cost varies widely by plan and provider. On the low end, MVNO (cheap SIM) plans can cost around ¥1,000/month for a small data plan (for example, 3GB data only, or a voice plan with minimal data). Mid-range plans (10–20GB) might be ¥2,000–¥3,000 with discount carriers. The major carriers offer larger data or unlimited plans that typically cost ¥4,000 to ¥5,000+ per month for a single line (though their online-only plans like ahamo or LINEMO are about ¥2,970–¥3,278 for 20GB or more). Keep in mind there’s often a one-time activation fee (~¥3,300) when you get a new SIM, and if you buy a device on contract, that adds to the monthly cost. Prices have been dropping recently due to competition, so shop around for promotions – for example, Rakuten Mobile’s unlimited data plan is about ¥3,278 and sometimes comes with points or free trial periods.

Q5: Do I need a Japanese phone number for daily life (e.g. banking, etc.)? – It’s highly recommended. Many services in Japan expect you to have a local mobile number. Banks often ask for a phone number when you open an account, and they use SMS verification codes for online banking security. Package delivery services require a phone number so they can contact you (or for you to arrange re-delivery). When job hunting or renting an apartment, a Japanese contact number is a must on application forms. While you could get by with just email or a foreign number in some cases, not having a local number will make certain processes difficult or impossible. Essentially, a Japanese phone number is a key part of your identity for official and business interactions.

Q6: Can I use my existing foreign smartphone in Japan? – Yes, you can use your own phone as long as it’s unlocked from your previous carrier and supports Japanese network frequencies. Japan uses standard 4G LTE and 5G bands that most modern phones (2018 and newer) have, but it’s worth checking for compatibility if your device is very old or a niche model. The phone must be SIM-free (not locked) – so make sure to unlock it before leaving your country, or get an unlock code from your carrier. iPhones from iPhone 6s onward and most Androids from major brands are typically fine. If your phone is unlocked, getting a SIM-only plan is straightforward: you’ll just insert the new SIM and configure the APN. If it’s not unlocked and you can’t unlock it, your alternatives are renting a pocket WiFi (as a workaround for data) or buying a new phone in Japan. Note that phones bought from Japanese carriers will be locked to that carrier by default, but by law you can request an unlock (usually after 100 days of use, or immediately if you pay in full). Also, eSIM is an option – many carriers support eSIMs now, so if your phone has no physical SIM slot free (like newer iPhones that are eSIM-only), you can still use eSIM to get service.

Q7: Is there any provider with English customer support for foreigners? – Yes, a few. Rakuten Mobile’s website and app are available in English, and they have English-speaking support staff. SoftBank has an English hotline, and their sub-brand LINEMO provides an English web signup. Docomo’s ahamo and KDDI’s povo are primarily Japanese-only online, but you can find English guides unofficially. Among MVNOs, services like Mobal, Sakura Mobile, and Yolo Mobile are geared towards foreigners – they provide English instruction and support. GTN Mobile (by Global Trust Network) also offers service in multiple languages. When in doubt, you can ask “英語でのサポートはありますか?” (Eigo de no support wa arimasu ka? – “Do you have support in English?”). In major city stores, they might call a translator hotline to assist. Overall, options with English are growing, but not every company has it, so choose accordingly if language is a concern.

Conclusion

Getting a phone number in Japan as a foreign resident may seem complicated, but with the right preparation it can be done in a day or two. By understanding the types of plans, gathering the necessary documents, and choosing a suitable provider, you’ll unlock a vital tool for life in Japan. In the end, the ability to communicate locally – whether for personal or official matters – will greatly enhance your convenience and peace of mind while living in Japan. Enjoy your new connected life with your Japanese phone number!