Can I use my foreign bank account for everything?

No. Japanese landlords, employers, and utilities require domestic bank accounts. Credit cards work for some purchases but cash is still king for daily life.

How long does apartment hunting take?

2-4 weeks typically. Many landlords don't rent to foreigners, so use agencies specializing in foreign residents or Leo Palace for guaranteed options.

Do I need to speak Japanese?

Basic Japanese helps enormously for daily tasks. Many government offices have English support, but banks and landlords often require Japanese speakers or translators.

What if I don't have a guarantor for housing?

Use guarantor companies (cost 0.5-1% of annual rent) or Leo Palace which doesn't require guarantors. Some share houses also skip guarantor requirements.

How to Set Up Life During a Long-Term Stay in Japan

Setting up life in Japan requires getting a residence card, opening a bank account, finding housing, and registering with your local ward office. Start with temporary accommodation, then secure permanent housing once you have your residence card and bank account established.

Get your residence card at the airport. Upon arrival, immigration will issue your residence card (zairyu card) if staying over 90 days. This is essential for everything else. Keep it with you always—it's required by law.
Register at your local ward office within 14 days. Go to your ward office (ku-yakusho) or city hall with your residence card and passport. Register your address and get a certificate of residence (juminhyo). This costs around 300 yen.
Open a bank account. Visit Japan Post Bank, SMBC, or Mizuho with your residence card, passport, and hanko (personal seal). Japan Post is most foreigner-friendly. You'll need proof of address from step 2.
Get a phone number. SoftBank, au, or Docomo offer plans starting around 3,000 yen monthly. Bring residence card, passport, and credit card or cash for deposit. MVNOs like IIJ Mio are cheaper but require more Japanese ability.
Secure permanent housing. Use Suumo, Homes, or Leo Palace for apartments. Expect to pay 4-6 months rent upfront (deposit, key money, agent fees, first month). Leo Palace offers furnished options for foreigners without guarantors.
Set up utilities. Arrange electricity (Tokyo Electric), gas (Tokyo Gas), and water through your ward office or online. Internet takes 2-4 weeks to install. NTT and SoftBank are major providers.
Get health insurance. Enroll in National Health Insurance at your ward office. Costs vary by income but expect 15,000-30,000 yen monthly. Required by law and covers 70% of medical costs.

Can I use my foreign bank account for everything?: No. Japanese landlords, employers, and utilities require domestic bank accounts. Credit cards work for some purchases but cash is still king for daily life.
How long does apartment hunting take?: 2-4 weeks typically. Many landlords don't rent to foreigners, so use agencies specializing in foreign residents or Leo Palace for guaranteed options.
Do I need to speak Japanese?: Basic Japanese helps enormously for daily tasks. Many government offices have English support, but banks and landlords often require Japanese speakers or translators.
What if I don't have a guarantor for housing?: Use guarantor companies (cost 0.5-1% of annual rent) or Leo Palace which doesn't require guarantors. Some share houses also skip guarantor requirements.