Applying as an International Student in Japan: Housing, Insurance & Bank Logistics They Don't Tell You

When planning to study in Japan, you'll encounter a host of "boring but critical" logistics that typical university brochures gloss over. Beyond admissions and scholarships, there are practical essentials – finding housing, getting health insurance, opening a bank account, and securing a mobile phone – that every international student must navigate.

This comprehensive guide covers those unspoken essentials with the latest policies and changes in mind, focusing especially on Tokyo (where many foreign students land). We'll explain how to avoid pitfalls (like getting stuck in housing or failing to get a phone line) and ensure you're set up for a smooth life in Japan.

Key Takeaways

• Housing in Tokyo requires 4-6 months' rent upfront for deposit, key money, and agency fees, with average rent at ¥70,000/month

• National Health Insurance is legally required and costs ¥2,000-3,000/month for students, with 2027 policy requiring payment compliance for visa renewal

• Japan Post Bank is the most accessible for new students with no 6-month residency requirement, unlike major banks

• Mobile phone contracts require careful carrier selection - Y!mobile and UQ mobile accept 90+ day visas while Rakuten Mobile requires 1+ year

• My Number Card integration starting December 2024 replaces traditional health insurance cards with digital system

• Banks now freeze accounts for expired visas as of 2025, requiring proactive notification when renewing residence status

• 79% of foreign students live in private apartments rather than dorms, making housing search critical for arrival planning

• Guarantor requirements can be met through university programs or paid guarantor companies at ~50% of monthly rent

• Garbage disposal rules and noise regulations are strictly enforced, with violations causing landlord and neighbor conflicts

• Student pension exemption (学生納付特例) available for those 20+ years old to defer National Pension payments during studies

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1. Initial City Hall Registration: Residence Card, Address & My Number

Upon arriving in Japan, your very first stop should be the local city or ward office (区役所 kuyakusho or 市役所 shiyakusho) in your area. This is mandatory within 14 days of moving into your address.

Key Registration Steps

Register Your Residence

• Present your passport and Residence Card (在留カード) at the city hall to register your address
• The staff will stamp your address on the back of your Residence Card, officially logging you as a resident
• Critical: Without this registration, you can't sign up for health insurance, open bank accounts, or do other formalities

Obtain a My Number (個人番号)

All residents in Japan (including foreign students) are assigned a personal identification number called "My Number."

• After you register your address, the ward office will mail your My Number notification to you (usually a paper card with a 12-digit number)
• Keep this number safe – you'll need it for various procedures (bank accounts, phone contracts, tax matters, etc.)
• Highly recommended: Apply for a My Number Card (an IC chip photo ID) because Japan is integrating health insurance into this card

Register for National Pension (if applicable)

If you are 20 years or older, technically you are required to enroll in the National Pension (国民年金) at the city hall, even as a student.

• Most full-time students with low income apply for a student payment exemption (学生納付特例) so you don't have to pay pension premiums during school
• Be sure to discuss this at the counter if it applies – it's usually a simple form and prevents future visa issues (as Japan plans to tighten checks on pension compliance too)

Note: These initial registrations create the foundation for your life in Japan.

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2. Securing Housing Without the Headache

Finding a place to live in Japan can be one of the biggest challenges for international students, especially in Tokyo. In fact, about 79% of foreign students live in private apartments or other non-dorm accommodations, so chances are you'll need to find housing on the rental market.

2.1 University Dorms vs. Private Apartments

Housing Type	Pros	Cons
University or JASSO Dormitories	• No key money or deposit required<br>• Basic furniture/appliances may be provided<br>• Lower costs	• Limited spots (not everyone gets in)<br>• Curfews or rules<br>• Shared facilities (kitchen, bathroom)
Private Apartments	• Freedom to set your own schedule and lifestyle<br>• Independence	• High upfront costs (3-6 months' rent)<br>• Complex contracts<br>• Need to buy own furniture and appliances
Share Houses and Gaijin Houses	• Often come furnished<br>• No key money or guarantor needed<br>• Shorter leases<br>• Can pay by credit card from abroad	• Higher monthly rent for the space<br>• Limited privacy<br>• Need reputable provider to avoid shady setups

Tip: Start researching housing as soon as you receive your acceptance. Many schools have an international student office that can recommend real estate agencies or listings.

2.2 Understanding Rental Costs in Tokyo

Average Monthly Rent

Location	Average Cost
Tokyo	¥70,000 per month
National Average	¥41,000 per month

Many students in Tokyo aim to find places under ¥80,000 if possible, but location and condition matter – a very cheap place might be cheap for a reason (old building, long commute, no insulation, etc.).

Additional Monthly Fees

• Common area maintenance fee (管理費): ~¥5,000 monthly (sometimes included in rent)
• Utilities (electricity, gas, water, internet): ¥10,000–¥15,000 total for a single occupant if you're energy-conscious

Balance: It's worth balancing budget with comfort and commute time.

2.3 Guarantors and "Key Money" – The Hidden Hurdles

Guarantor Requirement (連帯保証人)

In Japan, landlords usually require a guarantor – a person in Japan who co-signs and agrees to pay your rent if you default.

Solutions for International Students:

• Many universities help by acting as or finding guarantors for students
• Use a guarantor company for a fee (often ~50% of one month's rent, paid once or annually)
• Some apartments specifically require you to use a guarantor company instead of a personal guarantor, especially for foreigners – it's normal

Bottom line: Don't be surprised by the guarantor system; ask your school if they have a guarantor program for international students or be ready to pay for a guarantor service.

Key Money and Deposits

Japan has an odd custom of key money (礼金) – basically a non-refundable "gift" to the landlord.

Typical Upfront Costs:

• Key Money (礼金): 1–2 months' rent (non-refundable)
• Security Deposit (敷金): 1–2 months' rent (refundable minus any cleaning/repairs)
• Real Estate Agency Fee: ~1 month's rent (if you use an agent)
• First Month's Rent

Total: Not uncommon to need a lump sum equal to 3–6 months' rent just to move in.

Good news: Some newer rentals, especially those targeting students or foreigners, advertise "no key money, no deposit" to attract tenants. While those save cost, ensure the contract doesn't hide other charges and that the place is in decent condition.

2.4 Avoiding Low-quality Housing – Tips for Quality and Safety

Inspect (or Research) Before You Commit

If you're in Japan:

• Always visit a prospective apartment in person
• Check for mold, bugs, leaks, or signs of poor maintenance

If you're still abroad:

• Try to get detailed photos or videos
• Use Google Street View to check the neighborhood
• A deal that seems too cheap in Tokyo might be a sharehouse with ten people to one bathroom, or an old building with no heating

Use Reputable Sources

• Utilize your university's recommended housing resources or well-known real estate agencies
• Be cautious of private landlords on social media or unfamiliar websites asking for upfront payment before you see the place
• Common scams: Fake listings with stolen photos or demands for deposit via wire transfer before a viewing
• Stick to licensed agents or verified platforms to be safe

Consider Temporary Housing First

If unsure, you can book a monthly apartment or stay in a hostel for the first few weeks while hunting for a long-term place. This way you can apartment-hunt on the ground without pressure.

Mind the Rules (Trash & Noise)

Once you move in, be a good tenant. Many problems between foreign tenants and landlords arise from differences in living customs.

Common Issues:

1. Garbage Disposal

   • Trash in Japan must be sorted and put out on specific days
   • Each ward has strict rules (burnables on certain days, recyclables on others, using designated bags)
   • Failing to follow the garbage rules can anger neighbors and even get you warned by your landlord

2. Noise

   • Japan has thin walls – loud music or late-night gatherings could prompt complaints

3. Subletting

   • Avoid illegal subletting or sharing that violates your lease

Essentially: Know and respect the house rules to keep your housing problem-free.

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3. Enrolling in National Health Insurance (NHI)

Healthcare in Japan is accessible and affordable only if you enroll in the National Health Insurance (国民健康保険, NHI). As a foreign student staying more than 3 months, you are legally required to join NHI (unless you will have employer-sponsored insurance).

This is not optional – skipping health insurance can jeopardize your visa status and finances.

How NHI Works

• Coverage: National Health Insurance covers 70% of your medical costs at hospitals and clinics
• You pay: The remaining 30%
• Includes: Most treatments, including doctor visits, hospitalizations, and prescriptions (some dental and vision care is partially covered)

Example: With NHI, a simple clinic visit might cost you ¥1,000 instead of ¥3,500.

Signing Up for NHI

Where to Apply

You apply for NHI at the city/ward office (usually at the same time as residence registration).

Required Documents

• Residence card
• Passport

Important 2024 Policy Change

Starting late 2024, Japan is changing to a new system:

Old System	New System (Late 2024+)
Paper health insurance cards issued	No new cards issued after December 2024
Separate insurance card	Health coverage linked to My Number Card

If you have a My Number Card:

• You can use it as your insurance ID at hospitals (called "Myna Health Insurance Card" when activated)

If you don't have a My Number Card yet:

• The ward office will give you a paper Eligibility Certificate (資格確認書) as proof of insurance
• This certificate serves as your insurance card and is typically valid for 5 years (or until you get a My Number Card and switch)

Costs and Payment

Monthly Premiums

• Amount depends on: Where you live and your income
• Students with no prior income in Japan: Usually pay the minimum premium in their city – often around ¥2,000–¥3,000 per month (varies by municipality)
• Tokyo wards: Might be in the low-thousands of yen per month for a student

Payment Methods

• Receive a bill or coupon book to pay at convenience stores or banks
• Can set up automatic bank withdrawals

Tip: Some city halls allow reductions for low-income residents – as a student you might qualify for a reduction in insurance premiums, so ask about any discounts when signing up.

Stay Up-to-date (Upcoming Rule Changes)

CRITICAL POLICY CHANGE

The Japanese government is cracking down on insurance non-payment.

By 2027: The Immigration Bureau plans to check your NHI payment status when you renew your visa, potentially denying extensions if you have unpaid premiums.

Why This Matters

Current Situation	Future Impact
Historically, unpaid insurance didn't affect visa renewal	This is set to change by 2027
Currently only ~63% of foreign residents pay their NHI diligently (versus ~93% overall)	Unpaid premiums could risk your legal status
Many delinquent accounts are among students	Visa extensions may be denied for non-payment

Action Items:

• Do not ignore NHI bills
• If money is tight, talk to the city office – they can adjust payments or schedules
• File for exemption if you can't pay, so it's on record
• Similarly, for the National Pension, while students can defer payments, don't ignore the requirement

Summary: Joining NHI is mandatory and beneficial. It ensures you can get medical care at an affordable cost, and paying into it will keep you in good standing with immigration.

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4. Opening a Bank Account in Japan as a Student

A Japanese bank account is practically a necessity for day-to-day life – you'll use it to pay rent, receive scholarship stipends or part-time job pay, and make other transactions. However, opening a bank account as a new foreign student can be tricky due to verification rules.

4.1 Timing and Requirements

The Unofficial "6-Month Residency Rule"

Many Japanese banks historically had an unofficial "6-month residency rule" for foreigners – they preferred if you had been in Japan for at least 6 months or had a long visa with a stable job. This was to prevent fraud and account abuse.

As a student newly arrived, you might not meet that, but don't worry, you still have options.

Bank Options for New International Students

1. Japan Post Bank (ゆうちょ銀行) MOST RECOMMENDED

Why it's the best for new students:

• Does NOT require you to have 6 months in Japan or a job to open an account
• Minimum requirement: At least 3 months remaining on your residence card validity when applying

If you open with <6 months in Japan and no job:

• They will classify it as a "non-resident account" with some limited services
• In practice: Might mean you can't do large wire transfers or some online features are restricted for the first 6 months
• But you'll get a functional bank account with an ATM card

Features:

• Can apply online or at a post office
• Japan Post Bank is everywhere (post offices serve as branches)
• Passbook and ATM menu have English options
• Accepts signature instead of hanko seal for foreigners

2. Shinsei Bank & SMBC Trust (Prestia)

Benefits:

• Known for catering to foreigners
• SBI Shinsei Bank offers online banking in English and no minimum balance
• SMBC Trust Bank (Prestia) is the rebranded Citi Bank, offering services in English

Considerations:

• Both are more welcoming to foreigners, but they may still ask for proof of residence length or school enrollment
• Some Prestia accounts require a minimum deposit or monthly fee if balance is low
• As of 2024, Prestia explicitly asks if you've been here 6+ months or not
• If you have a Student ID and proof of address, these banks may open an account for you earlier, but policies vary by branch

3. Mega Banks (MUFG, Mizuho, SMBC retail, Resona)

Characteristics:

• The big household-name banks in Japan
• Often have stricter screening for new foreigners
• Officially state you need to reside in Japan 6+ months or show an employment certificate to open a regular account

For Students:

• As a student without 6 months history, you might be denied initially
• Once you've been here half a year or if you have a Japanese part-time job offer or scholarship proof, you can try again
• Rarely have English services
• Sometimes required (your school or dorm might ask you to use a specific bank for fees)

Basic Requirements for Opening an Account

When you go to open an account, typically prepare the following:

Required Documents:

1. Residence Card (with your new address on it)
2. Passport (secondary ID)
3. My Number notification or card, or at least be able to provide your My Number (some banks require you to submit or show it for tax purposes)
4. Student ID or proof of enrollment (not always asked, but good to have)
5. Inkan (hanko seal) – Optional: Most banks now accept just a signature for foreigners. But it's worth getting a simple hanko with your last name in Katakana (can be made for ¥1,000 at a shop) because some banks or future procedures prefer or require a seal
6. Japanese phone number – Some banks ask for a local contact number on the form. If you don't have a mobile yet, you might use your dorm's phone or a friend's number temporarily (with permission), but ideally get your own number

Important: Write your name in katakana as given on your residence card for consistency.

Timeline: Most banks will issue you a cash card on the spot or mail it in about a week.

4.2 Keeping Your Account Active (Avoid Freezes)

NEW DEVELOPMENT IN 2025: Japanese banks are aggressively tightening oversight of foreign accounts due to fraud concerns.

The Account Freeze Issue

What happened: In April 2025, some banks began freezing withdrawals from accounts if a foreign customer's visa had expired.

The problem: Even if you are still in Japan legally (for instance, you applied to extend your Student visa and are waiting for the new one), the bank's system might flag your residence card as expired and lock your account.

Why: Banks don't automatically know you extended your stay – you must tell them.

How to Avoid Accidental Freezes

Always update your bank when you renew your visa

Action Steps:

1. The moment you apply for an extension or receive a new residence card, notify your bank and provide proof
2. Many banks have procedures now:
   • MUFG: Allows continued use if you show them the extension application receipt or new card
   • SMBC Trust Bank: Will un-freeze once you present the new card within the 2-month grace period after expiry
3. Don't wait for trouble – right after you secure your visa renewal, take your new residence card to each bank where you have an account
4. Fill out their form to update your info

Key takeaway: You have to proactively inform them. This ensures your account stays accessible.

4.3 Using Your Bank Account

What You'll Receive

• Bank book (通帳)
• ATM/debit card

Services Available

ATM Access:

• Deposit or withdraw money at ATMs
• Japan Post and convenience store ATMs are plentiful
• Note: ATMs have hours of operation, not always 24/7 in some cases

Automatic Payments (振替):

• Set up for recurring bills like rent, utilities, or insurance
• Makes life easier: Many services allow auto-debit which ensures you don't miss payments
• Some utility companies even charge a small fee if you insist on paying at the convenience store by paper bill instead of auto-withdrawal

Why You Need a Japanese Bank Account

Essential for:

• Most scholarship organizations or employers require a local bank account to deposit your money
• Receiving any government allowances (if applicable)
• Day-to-day transactions and bill payments

Reality: While you can survive a short time using an overseas credit card or cash, a Japanese bank account quickly becomes indispensable for integration into daily life.

Extra Tip: Online Banks

If you have trouble with banks, consider opening an account with an online bank:

• Sony Bank
• Seven Bank
• PayPay Bank

Benefits:

• Often have more lenient requirements
• Online forms available
• Some international students have reported success with online banks after being rejected by physical banks

Ensure: You understand the ATM access and fees.

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5. Getting a Mobile Phone/SIM Card in Japan

A local mobile phone number is essential in Japan – you'll need it for everything from registering online services to being reachable by your school or landlord. Yet, newcomers often find it frustrating to get a phone plan. The process can indeed be tricky for foreigners due to credit checks, language, and visa requirements.

5.1 Phone Contract Options for Foreign Students

Option 1: Contract with a Carrier (Postpaid SIM)

This is a traditional phone plan billed monthly.

Available Carriers:

• Major carriers: Docomo, AU, SoftBank
• Budget sub-brands: ahamo, UQ mobile, Y!mobile, etc.
• MVNOs (廉価SIM providers): Rakuten Mobile, IIJmio, etc.

Requirements:
Contracts usually require:

• (a) Identity verification
• (b) A Japanese address
• (c) A credit check or valid payment method
• (d) Sufficient visa length

Note: Many carriers bundle a phone device purchase, but you can get a SIM-only plan if you have your own phone – though SIM-only is less common in Japan's retail stores (you often have to specifically ask or use online sign-up).

Visa Length Requirements

Critical Information: Some carriers refuse customers with very short remaining visa terms.

Carrier	Minimum Visa Requirement	Notes
Rakuten Mobile	At least 1 year left on residence card	Will reject if less than 1 year
Y!Mobile (SoftBank)	As little as 90 days remaining	Great option for students
UQ mobile (au)	As little as 90 days remaining	Great option for students

Impact: If you only have, say, an 11-month stay left, choose a carrier that's OK with that. The major carriers' flagship stores might have stricter unwritten rules, so consider these alternatives or ask before you apply.

Credit/Payment Requirements

Typical options:

• Pay via Japanese credit card or bank debit
• Some carriers allow payment by bank account transfer (口座振替) if you don't have a credit card – you'd provide your bank account info and they'll auto-debit bills

If your visa is short or you lack credit history:

• They may insist on a credit card as it's seen as more secure
• Some carriers accept foreign credit cards, and there are cases where an overseas Visa/Mastercard worked in the system
• Prepaid debit cards (like Revolut or Wise) usually do not work for phone bill auto-pay

Documentation Needed

What to bring:

• Your Residence Card
• Passport (secondary ID)
• Proof of address
• Residence Certificate (住民票) can also help as proof of address if requested
• Some carriers may ask for your My Number too

Phone Compatibility: Ensure your phone is unlocked and compatible with Japan's network bands. If you bought a phone overseas, check if it supports the bands for your carrier (e.g., Band 1, 3, 19 for Docomo). Newer smartphones typically work fine.

Option 2: Prepaid SIM or Rental

If the above sounds like too much hassle, or you only need a phone for a short stay, consider a prepaid SIM.

How it works:

• Pay upfront (e.g. ¥3,000 for 5GB data valid 30 days, etc.)
• No credit check, no contract

Where to buy:

• Electronics stores
• Airports
• Online

Well-known providers for foreigners:

• Mobal
• Sakura Mobile
• GTN Mobile
• Big carriers' prepaid options

Benefits:

• Can get connected immediately upon arrival with just your passport
• No need to wait for residence card or bank account

Downsides:

• Cost per GB is higher
• Validity is short (you must remember to top-up or it stops working)
• Some prepaid SIMs do not provide a phone number for voice calls/SMS (they might be data-only or data + IP-phone)

If you need a real phone number for SMS (for registering Line, banks, etc.), ensure the prepaid plan includes voice/SMS service.

Alternative: Rental SIM or Pocket WiFi for initial weeks. You can rent a SIM or WiFi hotspot at the airport for a few weeks – useful if you arrive before your university orientation and want to compare plans before committing.

5.2 Overcoming Common Hurdles

Language Barrier

• Most phone shops operate in Japanese
• If you go in person, you may face communication issues

Solutions:

• Bring a Japanese-speaking friend
• Ask if an English-speaking staff is available
• Many providers allow online applications in English (e.g., Sakura Mobile's website, Mobal, some MVNOs)
• Y!Mobile and UQ might have English pages or at least English contract terms
• Rakuten Mobile's website can be toggled to English for signup

Credit Checks

• Japanese carriers will do a soft credit check or rather an identity/contract check
• Because you have no prior credit in Japan, they mainly look at your documents and visa

If you're a student with no job:

• Sometimes they fear you won't pay on time
• One way to improve chances is to offer to pay a deposit or choose a cheaper plan/device so the risk is low
• Ensure you don't have any existing unpaid bills with any carrier (if you had a previous stay in Japan, an unpaid old phone bill can blacklist you)

Phone Number Porting (MNP)

If you plan to keep your number when switching in the future, know that you can do MNP (mobile number portability) by getting a code from your old provider. But for newcomers, this isn't relevant until you actually have a number.

Residence Card Not Issued Yet

• For short-term visitors (tourists), only prepaid is available
• As a student, you'll have a Residence Card upon entry
• Some carriers might want you to have an address on the Residence Card (which you get after city registration)

If you're super quick: You might not have that stamp yet. In that case, either wait until after you register your address (which can be done in a day or two) or use the school dorm's address if allowed.

Generally: It's easiest to get your city registration done first, then apply for phone.

Data and WiFi

While getting a SIM sorted, note that your student dorm or apartment might not come with internet.

Options:

• Many students get a home WiFi or use their phone's hotspot
• Pocket WiFi rental: Flexible, no long contract
• Fiber broadband: Faster, but often a 1–2 year contract and requires installation
• Some sharehouses include WiFi for free

Evaluate your data needs: Heavy online classes or gaming might merit a proper broadband line.

5.3 Recommended Approach for New Students

The Smart Strategy

Step 1: Start with a prepaid SIM for the first month, so you have immediate phone service

Step 2: Once you settle your bank account and understand the options, switch to a monthly postpaid plan that's more cost-effective long-term

Why this works: You're not rushing into a contract at the airport while jetlagged.

Alternative: If you already know which monthly plan you want and have the required documents, by all means, go straight to it.

Popular Options Among International Students in Tokyo (2025)

Provider	Network	Monthly Cost	Data	Visa Requirements	English Support	Notes
Y!mobile	SoftBank	~¥2,980/month	20GB	Accepts short visa holders (90 days+)	Often available	Reliable, student-friendly
UQ mobile	au	Similar pricing	Various	Accepts short visa holders (90 days+)	Some support	Good for students
Rakuten Mobile	Rakuten	~¥3,278	Unlimited	Requires 1 year+ visa	English website	Great if you have 2-year student visa; reject if 6 months or 1 year
IIJmio / BIC SIM	Docomo	As low as ¥2,000	10GB	Month-to-month	English brochures	Cheap MVNO, can apply at Bic Camera stores
Mobal	Various	From ¥6,000	Various	No Japanese credit needed	Full English support	Targeting foreigners, can set up before arrival, pricier but convenient
JP Smart SIM	Japan Post	Varies	Varies	Flexible	Available	Designed for foreign residents, can apply from overseas and pick up SIM at airport

In any case: Shop around and don't be afraid to ask questions. Once you have your phone and internet sorted, you'll feel much more connected and ready to tackle daily life in Japan.

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6. Conclusion: Plan Ahead for a Smooth Start in Japan

Applying as an international student in Japan is exciting, but the behind-the-scenes logistics are just as important as your college application. By taking charge of these "boring but critical" tasks early – housing, insurance, bank accounts, and phone setup – you set yourself up for success.

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Quick Reference Checklist

Within First Week of Arrival

• [ ] Register residence at city/ward office
• [ ] Get My Number notification
• [ ] Apply for My Number Card (recommended)
• [ ] Enroll in National Health Insurance (NHI)
• [ ] Register for National Pension exemption (if 20+)

Within First Month

• [ ] Secure housing (dorm or apartment)
• [ ] Open bank account (Japan Post Bank recommended)
• [ ] Get mobile phone/SIM card
• [ ] Set up utilities and internet (if not included)
• [ ] Learn local garbage disposal rules

Ongoing Maintenance

• [ ] Pay NHI premiums monthly (avoid visa issues)
• [ ] Update bank when you renew visa
• [ ] Keep contact info current with school
• [ ] Follow housing rules (trash, noise, etc.)
• [ ] Top up prepaid SIM if using one