Are you a student studying in Japan who needs side income to cover tuition fees, or an employee looking for additional income sources beyond your salary? If you’re a foreigner wondering where and how to find side work opportunities, this article is perfect for you.

By reading this article, you’ll discover platforms and websites where you can earn side income in Japan and achieve financial freedom by leveraging your skills and talents.

General Freelance Job Platforms

These platforms offer a wide variety of freelance opportunities, from jobs requiring specialized skills to those that don’t. If you haven’t decided what kind of work you want to do yet, you can use these sites to explore what freelance opportunities exist in the market, decide what interests you, and then search for freelance work accordingly.

CrowdWorks

CrowdWorks is Japan’s largest freelance job platform.

• Offers over 250 different job categories, from simple tasks requiring no experience or special skills to specialized positions in software engineering, design, writing, and more
• Industry leader with over 6.7 million registered freelancers
• Used by over 1 million companies across Japan to find freelancers

CrowdWorks

Coconala

Coconala is a skill-sharing platform where you can earn income by sharing your knowledge and skills.

• Turn any skill you have—whether it’s a hobby, talent, professional knowledge, or specialized expertise—into a service and sell it on Coconala
• Particularly easy to offer services in consulting, coaching, and tutoring

ココナラ

Lancers

One of Japan’s largest freelance job platforms with the most freelance job listings.

• Features simple jobs like surveys and data entry, as well as high-paying specialized work such as translation, website development, and graphic design
• Over 350 job categories available
• Compared to CrowdWorks, offers more high-quality, well-paying jobs
• Excellent customer support, ranked No. 1 in customer satisfaction

Craudia

A freelance job platform where you can receive projects from clients nationwide.

• Supports various types of work including writing, design, system development, and data entry
• Worker commission rate of 3-15% is the lowest in the industry, allowing you to earn more income than competitors
• Safe transactions with prepayment system, eliminating the risk of non-payment
• Choose from various work styles: projects, hourly rates, skill sharing, etc.
• Work freely as remote work or side jobs without being tied to location or time

Craudiaクラウディア

IT-Specialized Freelance Job Platforms

The jobs found on these platforms are specialized in software engineering. Depending on your area of expertise, you can find work opportunities to earn side income.

Midworks

A platform for those who want to work in software or web design as part-time/full-time freelancers rather than just for side income.

• Many freelance opportunities for remote work or regular office format 3-5 days per week
• Main advantage is providing social security equivalent to full-time employees
• Free support for tax filing procedures
• Salary guarantee system during periods without work (only for those meeting certain conditions)
• Many opportunities for major cities like Tokyo and Osaka

Midworks

Engineer-Route

A platform offering freelance job opportunities for those wanting to work in software or web design.

• Many job listings with remote work options
• Career consultants who track both workers and clients simultaneously prevent mismatches and suggest jobs aligned with your career goals. Very high-quality worker support
• High-quality support platform where even those new to freelancing can use it casually, with career consultants providing careful guidance
• Many opportunities for major cities, fewer for rural areas
• Wide variety of projects from long-term to short-term, choose according to your preferences

Engineer-Route

Tecgate Freelance

A platform offering freelance opportunities for software engineers.

• Main strength is the ability to offer unique projects and projects related to business partners that other agencies don’t have
• Over 50% of offered projects allow remote work
• Provides many project opportunities for 3-4 days per week work

Tecgate Freelance

IT Kyujin Navi

• AI-powered smart matching: Automatically selects optimal jobs and sends them via email, saving search time
• High compensation, reliable support: Industry-leading compensation and continuous job search support based on 18 years of experience
• Nationwide extensive network: Face-to-face or fully remote work opportunities nationwide, including the Kanto region
• Target audience: Freelance engineers seeking stable, high income

IT求人ナビフリーランス

Engineer Room

Engineer Room, an established agency with approximately 30 years of history, has built a strong position especially in Tokyo, Kanagawa, Chiba, and Saitama area projects.

Key Features:

• Over 10,000 project options: Find jobs matching your skills and preferences from the Kanto area’s largest project pool
• Dedicated consultant support: Careful support at each stage of the process, from project introduction to compensation negotiation and post-project follow-up
• Fast payment system: Financial stability ensured with month-end closing and 20th of following month payment (no fees)
• Comprehensive support services: Free tax return support and transportation expense support during registration (up to certain limit)

【エンジニアルーム】

CrowdWorks Tech

• A freelance career support service operated by listed company CrowdWorks, ensuring reliability and trust
• Industry-leading platform with over 910,000 registered companies, offering abundant opportunities for IT engineers and web designers
• Dedicated career supporters act as intermediaries with companies, providing full support for project acquisition and contract negotiations. Track record of project start within 3 days at minimum
• Over 97% of projects are fully remote, enabling flexible work styles
• Focuses on high-paying long-term projects (3+ months) with a project continuation rate exceeding 90%, supporting stable income
• Available from 3 days per week, with side job projects starting from 1 day per week
• Industry-leading payment terms with payment on the 15th of the following month for smooth cash flow management
• Comprehensive welfare benefits including monthly payments of 50,000 yen for up to 10 years in case of work inability due to illness or injury
• Simple web-based work reports to reduce administrative burden
• Well-received personalized support for everyone from freelance beginners to veterans

クラウドワークス テック

Online Sales Platforms

You can earn income by selling new or used items on these platforms. Getting started is very simple.

Mercari

An e-commerce platform specializing in selling used goods.

• New products are also available
• Mercari is Japan’s largest flea market app with the most users (approximately 23 million) in Japan
• When selling items on Mercari, you can use a nickname. Thanks to Mercari’s system, you can ship without your name and address information being displayed to the other party, and their information not being displayed to you
• Resources are available to learn how to use the Mercari app, making it easy for beginners to get started

Invitation code to get 500 yen worth of points when you first register and start using Mercari: TWRWYP

• Invitation code: TWRWYP
• Mercari app: Iphone / Android
• How to use: Download the Mercari app and enter invitation code TWRWYP (not available for web registration)

Please watch the video below to learn how to register on Mercari and enter your invitation code.

💡 JEC Tip:

Selling online on Mercari is one of the easiest ways to start earning side income immediately. Simply take photos of items, upload them to the Mercari app, write a brief description, and you can start selling right away. If you want to make your products more attractive, you can design product photos using apps like Canva. Some students sell products they brought from overseas in the Japanese market on Mercari and cover their monthly expenses.

メルカリTOPページ

BASE

A platform where you can set up an e-commerce store for free at no cost.

• With BASE, you can create very stylish e-commerce stores suitable for your products using ready-made design templates without software or programming knowledge
• BASE provides its own domain
• BASE has numerous features available for free, including Instagram integration
• BASE has over 2.4 million e-commerce stores and continues to be No. 1 in Japan for e-commerce store creation

BASE

Survey Sites

You can earn side income by answering surveys about products, services, websites, and apps on these sites.

PopInSight

A survey site that helps improve websites by testing company websites.

Three types of work:

1. Surveys: Simple surveys sent before individual website or app tests (30 seconds to 5 minutes, 5 points~)
2. Individual website/app testing: Record your computer screen and opinions on video while using websites or apps. You don’t need to film yourself, only computer screen footage and voice expressing opinions are needed (15-60 minutes, 500-3,000 points)
3. Interview-style website/app testing: Test websites or apps in face-to-face format with staff (60-90 minutes, 2,500 points~)

Points earned can be received as Amazon gift cards. 1 point = 1 yen

ポイントサイトより稼げる！1回1000円のお手軽在宅ワーク

MACROMILL(マクロミル)

A survey site operated by Macromill Inc., listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange.

• Over 1.2 million users

Three types of work:

1. Surveys: Surveys asking about usage and opinions on various products and services
2. Product testing: Test various products sent to your home such as food, beverages, cosmetics, and share opinions and evaluations
3. Group interviews: Go to designated locations and discuss products and services in groups of about 3-5 people

Points earned can be received as cash, various gift certificates, or electronic money (points). 1 point = 1 yen

マクロミル

Rakuten Insight

A survey site operated by Rakuten Group.

• Over 2.2 million users

Three types of work:

1. Surveys: Surveys asking about usage and opinions on various products and services
2. Product testing: Test various products sent to your home such as food, beverages, cosmetics, and share opinions and evaluations
3. Group interviews: Go to designated locations and discuss products and services in groups of about 3-5 people

Compensation is paid in Rakuten points. Rakuten points can be used for all Rakuten services and also for cashless payments as electronic money with Rakuten Pay. 1 point = 1 yen

Pocket Research

A survey site offering simple at-home work requiring no experience for those who want to earn income by trying various services and products.

Target: Men aged 20-54

What kind of work is available?

1. Supplement (health product) experience
   Try products from major health and supplement brands and share reviews. Products are delivered to your home, so you can work completely from home.
2. Service applications
   Experience services such as getting insurance quotes, opening bank accounts, attending seminars, and provide feedback. You can choose services that match your interests.
3. Cosmetics/beauty product experience
   Earn income by using makeup and skincare products and sharing your experiences.

【ポケットリサーチ】

Ipsos iSay

• Operated by one of the world’s leading research company: A trusted market and public opinion research community operated by Ipsos, the world’s third-largest market research company
• Influence society and brands: By participating in surveys, you can contribute to major corporate decision-makers and future trend formation
• Earn income with diverse reward options: Reward points given for each survey are relatively high. Points earned can be exchanged for various gift cards such as Amazon gift cards, PeX point cards, online book cards, and QUO card Pay
• Various types of work: In addition to regular surveys, you can share opinions in various formats such as product monitors, real-time surveys, special communities, and activity diaries
• Privacy protection: Personal information is used only for statistical purposes according to strict privacy and data protection policies. Survey participation is completely voluntary and you can withdraw at any time

【i-Say】

OpinionWorld

A trusted survey platform operated by the Japan branch of Dynata, one of the world’s largest online research companies.

Key Features:

• 💰 High reward rates: High compensation per survey, allowing you to earn side income quickly and efficiently
• 💳 Abundant payment options: Accumulated points can be easily exchanged for:
  • Cash
  • Amazon gift cards (exchange available from ¥500)
  • T-POINT, etc.
• 🛡️ Complete security and reliability:
  • Trusted by millions worldwide (approximately 62 million)
  • Use with confidence with the highest level of security support
• ✅ Very easy to get started:
  • Registration process is simple and completely free
  • You’ll also gain mental satisfaction knowing your responses contribute to global market research

Start earning money easily by participating in high-paying surveys!

OpinionWorldにモニター登録！

Fancrew(ファンくる)

🌟💰 Smart & rewarding experiences with Fancrew! 🤫

Fancrew is a participatory customer experience (CX) platform where you can enjoy various services at great prices, including restaurants 🍽, beauty salons 💇‍♀️💅, and online shopping 🛍.

Key Features:

• 🕵 Mystery shopping system as the foundation: Use services like a regular customer and share your experience in anonymous reports ✍
• 🎁 Rewards returned as points: Part of your spending, sometimes up to 100% 💯, is returned as points. Accumulated points can be exchanged for cash 💵, gift cards, or miles
• 🎯 Wide range of category options: Find opportunities in various aspects of daily life, including dining 🍔, beauty 💄, supermarkets 🛒, and e-commerce 📦
• 🤝 Contribute to business growth! Your honest opinions 🗣 help improve company service quality

Why not be wallet-friendly while contributing to making your favorite places better? 😉

ファンくる

Research Panel

A survey site operated by two major listed companies (CARTA HOLDINGS Inc. and Cross Marketing Inc.) where you can easily earn pocket money using your spare time. 💰📱

Research Panel Features:

• Diverse surveys 📝✅: From simple web surveys taking just a few minutes to product testing and high-paying group interviews—participate in the style that suits you!
• Trusted operation 🛡️🏢: Industry top-class service operated by two listed companies, with 1.7 million members nationwide (as of March 2021)
• Multiple exchange options 🎁💵: Accumulated points can be exchanged through the “PeX” point exchange service for cash, Amazon gift cards, electronic money, and many other options

Contribute to society by answering surveys while earning pocket money! Please check it out. ✨🚀

リサーチパネル

Cue Monitor

A survey site operated by the INTAGE Group, which has been in the marketing research field for over 50 years.

• Over 1.5 million users

Four types of work:

1. Surveys: Surveys asking about usage and opinions on various products and services
2. Product testing: Test various products sent to your home such as food, beverages, cosmetics, and share opinions and evaluations
3. Group interviews: Go to designated locations and discuss products and services in groups of about 3-5 people
4. MyCue app: Participate in the “one question, one answer” section from the app and answer simple questions sent daily

Points earned can be received as cash, various gift certificates, or electronic money (points). 1 point = 1 yen

キューモニター

iResearch

A survey participant site operated by Neo Marketing Inc., listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange, where you can earn points while contributing to society through surveys.

Key Features:

• Useful to society 🌍: Surveys you answer play an important role in corporate and social marketing activities
• Abundant point exchange options 💳🎁: Accumulated points can be exchanged with a value of 1 point = 1 yen for many options including bank transfers, Amazon gift cards, electronic money, and coupons!
• Donate with points ❤️: You can fulfill social responsibility by donating points to various charitable organizations such as certified NPO Florence
• Trusted operation 🛡️: Operated by Neo Marketing Inc., a Tokyo Stock Exchange-listed company with over 2.45 million members and more than 15 years of operation

Please participate in iResearch surveys, which embrace the motto “Good for society. Good for yourself.” ✨

iResearch

Amefri

✨ Point site with industry-best return rates where you can earn pocket money “Amefri” ✨

Key Features:

• Earn easily with high returns 💰: Used by over 550,000 members! High return rates allow some users to earn over ¥10,000 per month
• Wide variety of campaigns 🛍️: Over 10,000 projects available, from shopping to credit card applications and app downloads. Start earning points in just 5 minutes a day!
• Safe operation and diverse exchange options 🛡️: Operated by a trusted company with 16 years of industry experience. Exchange accumulated points for cash, miles, and various gift codes!

The perfect point-earning site for those who want side income or to accumulate miles for travel! ✈️

「ポイ活」デビュー応援キャンペーン！

infoQ

“infoQ” is a popular point activity site where you can accumulate points by answering surveys.

Key Features:

• Abundant surveys: In addition to web surveys, there are high-paying projects such as online interviews, venue surveys, home use tests, and diary surveys
• Multiple point exchange destinations: Over 12 exchange destinations including cash, Amazon gift cards, and several points, with commission-free real-time exchange available
• Safe and secure operation: 20 years of experience, over 800,000 members. Privacy Mark and ISMS certification obtained, ensuring complete security

Why not start earning pocket money using your spare time?

infoQ

Summary

In this article, we’ve introduced platforms and websites where foreigners can earn side income in Japan.

If you have any questions about “living in Japan,” including earning side income in Japan, please don’t hesitate to contact us. You can reach us via social media or through the contact form below.

If you found this article or our activities helpful, we would greatly appreciate your support with a cup of coffee ☕✨

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For foreigners living in Japan, the initial costs of renting an apartment can be a significant financial burden. With security deposits, key money, broker fees, and other charges that can amount to several months’ worth of rent, scraping together that much money upfront can be challenging. The key to finding affordable rental properties in Japan as a foreigner is minimizing these initial costs.

This article explains the initial costs involved in renting apartments in Japan and introduces methods for keeping these expenses low. We’ll also explore “Xross House,” a service that provides affordable rental properties accessible to foreigners with low initial costs. For foreigners seeking inexpensive yet comfortable accommodations, this article will serve as a valuable resource.

Initial Costs for Rental Properties

When renting an apartment, initial costs are unavoidable. These costs include security deposits, key money, broker fees, and other charges that must be paid upfront to secure your rental. Let’s break down these initial costs for foreigners planning to rent in Japan.

What Are Initial Costs?

Initial costs refer to the upfront fees paid when renting a property. Specifically, these include security deposits (shikikin), key money (reikin), broker fees, prorated rent, advance rent payments, fire insurance premiums, guarantee fees, and key replacement costs. These initial expenses occur during the rental application process and contract signing, making them essential for any rental agreement.

The amount and breakdown of initial costs vary by property and location, but typically require several months’ worth of rent. By paying these initial costs, tenants demonstrate their reliability and financial stability to property owners and real estate companies, who use these funds to cover property maintenance expenses and potential risks. While initial costs can be a substantial burden, proper planning and cost-saving strategies can help reduce this financial impact.

Breakdown of Initial Costs During Rental Contracts

Here’s the typical breakdown of initial costs:

Security Deposit (Shikikin)

The security deposit is a type of guarantee payment when renting a property. It covers costs for restoring the property to its original condition upon move-out and any unpaid rent or other debts. Generally set at 1-3 months’ rent depending on the property and location, the security deposit is paid in full upon move-in. If tenants properly maintain the property during their lease, repair any damage upon move-out, and fulfill all rent and debt obligations, the full amount is typically returned. However, if there is any damage or unpaid rent, the cost will be deducted from the deposit, and the remaining amount will be returned.

Key Money (Reikin)

Key money is a payment expressing gratitude to the landlord, typically equivalent to 1-2 months’ rent. Unlike security deposits, key money is generally non-refundable. Once paid, key money belongs to the landlord and won’t be returned upon contract termination or move-out. Therefore, tenants cannot request key money refunds during the lease period or upon moving out. The presence and amount of key money varies by property and location, so it’s important to confirm this before signing a contract.

Broker Fee (Chukai Tesuryo)

Broker fees are charges for real estate companies’ intermediary services during rental contracts. Generally paid by both landlords and tenants upon contract signing, these fees compensate real estate companies for property introductions and contract procedures. While typically equivalent to one month’s rent, amounts vary by property, location, and real estate company. Broker fees are usually paid in full when the rental contract is established and are not refunded during the lease period or upon move-out. Since it is charged as a commission for the real estate company, the brokerage fee is generally paid by both the landlord and the tenant. However, in some properties or areas, the tenant may be required to pay the full amount.

Prorated Rent (Hiwari Yachin)

Prorated rent applies when contract start or end dates fall mid-month. It’s calculated by dividing monthly rent by the number of days in that month, then multiplying by actual contract days. For example, if a contract starts mid-month, rent is calculated for the remaining days of that month. Similarly, if termination occurs mid-month, rent for the remaining days is deducted. Prorated rent is particularly important for non-fixed-term contracts or when move-in dates aren’t set for the beginning of the month.

Advance Rent Payment

This involves paying the following month’s rent at contract signing. Most rental properties adopt this system, and it’s typically included in initial costs.

Fire Insurance Premium

This insurance covers building and furniture damage from natural disasters after moving in. While amounts vary by property and contract conditions, it’s typically set at around 20,000 yen for two years. Though often specified by real estate companies, tenants can choose their own fire insurance.

Guarantee Fee (Hosho-ryo)

Guarantee fees are paid to guarantee companies to cover potential rent defaults. Usually equivalent to half a month to one month’s rent, some contracts require renewal fees every one or two years.

Key Replacement Cost

This fee covers creating new keys when moving into a rental property. Rather than using keys from previous tenants, new keys are made for each new tenant. Tenants bear this cost, which is separate from security deposits and key money. Key replacement costs vary by property and real estate company but typically range from several thousand to tens of thousands of yen. This fee is necessary to protect tenant safety and privacy, ensuring comfortable living for new residents.

Total Initial Costs Simulation (70,000 yen monthly rent)

Let’s simulate initial costs for a property with 70,000 yen monthly rent:

Additional Initial Costs

Beyond rental contract initial costs, you’ll also need moving expenses and furniture/appliance purchases.

Moving Costs

Moving costs include moving company fees, packing materials, and transportation expenses. Amounts vary based on distance, luggage volume, chosen moving company, and timing, typically ranging from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of yen. Additional services like packing or furniture assembly incur extra charges. Moving costs are essential for starting new life, so careful planning is important.

By using moving quote services (引越し屋) you can receive quotes from multiple moving companies. This makes it easier to compare prices and services, helping you choose a company that best fits your needs. We recommend taking advantage of this service.

Furniture and Appliance Costs

These costs cover necessary furniture and appliances for your new home, including beds, sofas, tables, chairs, refrigerators, washing machines, TVs, and air conditioners. Costs vary by item type, quality, and quantity, typically ranging from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of yen or more. New items cost more than used ones. When furnishing a new home, it’s important to budget and purchase strategically, considering functionality, durability, and cost-effectiveness.

How Foreigners Can Minimize Rental Initial Costs

When renting properties, initial costs are unavoidable. Here are four methods for foreigners to minimize rental initial costs:

Choose Properties with Zero Security Deposit and Key Money

To save on initial contract costs, look for properties that waive security deposits and key money. Since these typically cost one month’s rent each, zero-deposit properties can save up to two months’ rent.

Consider Changing Your Moving Date to Save on Initial Costs

Adjusting your moving schedule can be a smart way to reduce initial expenses. By avoiding peak seasons in the real estate market, you may be able to find lower rent prices and reduced agency fees.

In Japan, January to March and September to October are considered peak moving seasons. During these times, demand is high, which often leads to increased rent and higher moving service fees. On the other hand, the real estate market tends to slow down between June and August. This off-season is a great time to look for an apartment, as demand is lower and costs are typically more manageable.

Planning your move for a weekday or at the beginning of the month—when fewer people are moving—can also help cut costs. By being flexible with your moving date, you can significantly reduce your initial expenses and make your relocation more affordable.

Choose Furnished Properties

Selecting furnished properties is a convenient way to reduce initial costs. These properties eliminate the need to purchase furniture and appliances, saving significant money. This is especially useful for those without existing furniture/appliances or temporary residents. Additionally, having pre-installed furniture and appliances reduces moving hassles and burdens. Since furniture and appliances vary by property, you can choose accommodations matching your preferences and lifestyle.

Choose Real Estate Companies with Low Broker Fees

Selecting real estate companies with low broker fees is important for reducing initial costs. Broker fees compensate real estate companies for intermediary services and are paid in full upon contract signing. Choosing companies with lower fees reduces initial costs and financial burden. While most companies charge one month’s rent, some offer services ranging from free to half-price. Besides low fees, choosing trustworthy companies is important. Research reviews and reputation to select reliable companies for smooth contract processes and post-move-in support.

Xross House: Affordable Rental Properties for Foreigners

Xross House provides affordable rental properties that foreigners can move into with confidence. Supporting 10 languages, they help overcome language barriers for smooth move-in procedures. With reduced initial costs and furnished options, excellent locations, and diverse room types, they accommodate various lifestyles. They also offer web-only contracts requiring no store visits and free property transfer services, prioritizing tenant convenience. This is an ideal choice for foreigners seeking comfortable, secure living.

Why Foreigners Choose Cross House

Here are eight reasons why foreigners choose Xross House:

Multilingual Support: 10-Language Move-in Assistance

Xross House provides support in 10 languages to meet diverse tenant needs: Japanese, English, Korean, Chinese, Taiwanese, Vietnamese, Myanmar, Nepali, Sinhala, and Indonesian. This allows foreigners to complete move-in procedures smoothly without language barriers. Language support covers not just contracts and procedures, but property tours and local information throughout daily life. This enables foreigners to start Japanese life with confidence, achieving smooth move-ins without communication anxiety.

Xross House‘s website also supports 12 languages.

Low Initial Costs

Xross House‘s low initial costs are a major reason foreigners choose them:

Affordable Rent

Xross House rent is very reasonable, allowing foreigners to live comfortably while keeping budgets low. Compared to surrounding properties, rent is set affordably, with abundant 40,000-50,000 yen rooms even in popular Tokyo areas.

Excellent Locations

Good locations are crucial for foreigners to live comfortably in Japan. Xross House properties are concentrated in prime Tokyo locations, within 20 minutes of Shinjuku, Shibuya, Harajuku, Ikebukuro, Shinagawa, Tokyo, Kichijoji, and Yokohama.

Fully furnished with appliances and WiFi

Xross House properties come fully furnished with furniture, appliances, and WiFi. Tenants don’t need to purchase new furniture or appliances and can immediately start comfortable living. This saves both the hassle and cost of buying and installing furniture/appliances, while high-speed WiFi ensures no internet connectivity issues. Xross House properties provide environments where foreigners can start Japanese life stress-free.

Web-Only Contracts with No Store Visits Required

Xross House uses smart locks operated by smartphones or dedicated remote controls for door access. While maintaining high security, there’s no worry about losing keys. Since there’s no need to receive keys in person during move-in, everything from property search to contract can be completed online. Overseas residents can sign web contracts before coming to Japan and enter rooms with smartphones after arrival.

Free Property Transfers After Moving In

You can transfer between Xross House properties unlimited times for free. Free property transfers are possible when moving from Japanese language school to university or when changing jobs and commute locations. Tenants can respond flexibly to life and work changes without feeling extra burden. Since regular moves typically incur initial costs, Xross House is recommended for foreigners who may need to relocate due to school admission, employment, or job changes.

Job Introduction Services for Foreigners

Xross House has partnered with Marimo Holdings, an international human resources company, providing “job introduction support” for foreigners in addition to “housing.”

Four Room Types to Choose From

Xross House offers two property types: share houses and furnished apartments. Share houses are divided into three room types: private rooms, semi-private, and dormitory.

Share Houses

Share houses are rental properties with individual rooms plus shared common spaces. Compared to regular apartments, they offer lower initial and monthly costs at affordable prices. Common fees include water, electricity, and gas, with free WiFi.

Share House Private Rooms

Recommended for those wanting to keep rent low while valuing privacy. Private rooms are for individual use, perfect for those wanting “private space beyond shared areas.” Rooms include TV, refrigerator, bed, desk, chair, air conditioning, and drying facilities – essentially everything needed except water facilities. Rooms have locks, so there’s no worry about theft or other troubles.

Share House Semi-Private

Recommended for those wanting to keep rent low while valuing privacy more than dormitories. Semi-private rooms involve 2-3 people sharing large rooms divided by curtains or partitions. Minimal private space is maintained for individuals. Lighting and air conditioning are shared with roommates, while beds, storage, desks, chairs, and desk lights are individual.

Share House Dormitory

Xross House‘s cheapest room type where 3-8 people share one room with multiple bunk beds. Private space is limited to the bed area. Beds include clotheslines, lights, 3-outlet power strips, sliding tables, and storage boxes with necessary minimums.

Furnished Apartments

Furnished apartments are single-living rooms with complete furniture and appliances including beds, tables, TVs, refrigerators, microwaves, washing machines, and air conditioning. While regular rental properties typically cost about 5 times monthly rent in initial fees, Xross House furnished apartments cost only a flat 50,000 yen – dramatically cheaper than market rates.

Resident Reviews

Please check out the video below of an interview with a foreigner who actually lives in Xross House.

IVANA JORDANOVSKA

Move-in Process

Moving into Xross House is completed in four simple steps:

Step 1: Inquiry

First, decide on your desired area and budget, then contact them to connect with a representative.

Step 2: Property Tour

Next, conduct online property tours to check properties and facilities. On-site tours are also possible if desired.

Step 3: Web Contract

Then, fill out the web contract form with necessary information to complete contract procedures.

Step 4: Smart Key Move-in

Finally, receive your smart key via email and complete move-in preparation.

Contact with Xross House

Summary

Xross House is a reliable real estate company providing affordable rental properties for foreigners. They offer various support services to minimize initial costs and maintain stable living. Their services include multilingual support, furnished properties, web-only contracts, free property transfers, and job introductions – all tailored to tenant needs. Xross House maintains comprehensive support systems to help foreigners start their lives in Japan with confidence. Foreigners wanting to live affordably in well-located Tokyo areas should definitely explore Xross House properties.

If you have any questions about rental property searches for foreigners, please feel free to contact us through our inquiry form or social media DMs below.

Thank you for reading this article to the end! If you’d like to support JEC’s activities, we welcome support through Buy Me a Coffee. Your support helps us continue providing quality content. Thank you for your consideration!

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What is Furusato Nozei?

Furusato Nozei is a system where you donate a portion of your tax payment in advance to local municipalities, and the donation amount (total donation – ¥2,000) is then deducted from your income tax and resident tax.

To attract more donations, local municipalities send gift products to donors worth up to 30% of their donation amount. These gifts range from local specialty foods and beverages to electronics and travel vouchers—virtually any product or service you can imagine.

Through Furusato Nozei, you can donate to any region you wish using your own tax money and choose how your donation will be used. If you want to see what areas these donations support, click here.

How to Use Furusato Nozei

Many people in Japan think Furusato Nozei is too complicated and troublesome, so they give up on using it. According to data from the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, the usage rate of Furusato Nozei in 2024 is only 18.5%.

However, using Furusato Nozei isn’t as complicated or time-consuming as it appears. You simply make your donation just like shopping online, and through a process that takes less than an hour, you can complete the necessary procedures for tax deductions, keeping tens of thousands of yen in your pocket.

1- Calculate Your Donation Limit

While you can make unlimited donations and receive gift products through Furusato Nozei, there is a limit to how much you can deduct from your taxes. This limit varies based on your annual total salary and family structure. To find out your limit, you can use the Rakuten Furusato Nozei simulator.

2- Make Donations to Receive Gift Products Through Furusato Nozei Portal Websites

Select your gift products from Furusato Nozei portal websites that list available items and make your donation. If there’s a specific local government you want to support, you can also choose from their gift products. You can select multiple gift products to reach your donation limit.

Our Recommendation

In terms of “ease of use,” “variety of gifts,” and “online application support,” Rakuten Furusato Nozei is one of the best platforms available.

It’s especially recommended for Rakuten Card holders.

3- Receive Your Gift Products and Donation Receipt

After a certain period following your donation, local governments will send you your gift product and donation receipt.

4- Complete Necessary Procedures to Benefit from Tax Deductions

After completing your donation, you need to take certain steps to benefit from tax deductions. If you don’t complete these procedures, you’ll simply have made a donation and received a gift product—you won’t receive any tax deductions.

There are two methods for receiving tax deductions: Tax Return (Kakuteishinkoku) and One-Stop Special System (Wan sutoppu tokurei seido)

Tax Return (Kakuteishinkoku)

If you have income other than your salary from working at a company in Japan, or if you’re self-employed, you need to file a tax return. Those who file tax returns can benefit from Furusato Nozei tax deductions by reporting their donations during tax filing.

One-Stop Special System (Wan sutoppu tokurei seido)

If you work for a company and won’t be filing a tax return, we recommend using this method. It’s a much more practical approach compared to filing a tax return. Without needing to fill out a tax return form, donation amounts exceeding ¥2,000 are deducted from the following year’s resident tax.

There are two methods for applying through the One-Stop Special System:

【Method 1】Application by Mail

🧾 Application Steps

1. After making your donation, the local government you donated to will send you a document called “寄附金税額控除に係る申告特例申請書” (Tax Deduction Special Application Form) by mail.
2. Fill out this form.
3. Attach photocopies of both sides of your My Number card.
4. Mail the form to the specified address.

Most municipalities send a stamped return envelope, so you simply need to put the documents in and drop them in a mailbox.

【Method 2】Mobile App or Online Application

In recent years, many municipalities have started offering online application options via smartphone or computer. With this method, you don’t need to fill out documents or send mail; you simply scan your My Number card through municipality-designated apps like Furumado (ふるまど) and complete the process in just a few minutes.

Important Points to Keep in Mind

There is a Limit to the Donation Amount You Can Deduct from Your Taxes

While you can make unlimited donations and receive gift products through Furusato Nozei, there is a limit to how much you can deduct from your taxes. This limit varies based on your annual total salary and family structure. To find out your limit, you can use the Rakuten Furusato Nozei simulator.

If you exceed this limit, you’ll simply have made a donation and received gift products—you won’t be able to deduct the portion of your donation that exceeds the limit from your taxes.

If You File a Tax Return After Applying Through the One-Stop Special System, Your Furusato Nozei Tax Deduction Becomes Invalid

If you applied for tax deductions through the One-Stop Special System but then file a tax return for reasons such as mortgage deductions or medical expense deductions, your Furusato Nozei tax deduction becomes invalid.

During your tax return filing, you’ll need to reapply for the tax deduction using the donation receipts sent to you by local governments.

Summary

To summarize what we’ve covered in this article, the Furusato Nozei system allows you to receive gift products by paying a portion of your regular tax payment in advance as donations to local governments—it’s a risk-free system with numerous advantages.

You can start ordering gift products offered by municipalities using Rakuten Furusato Nozei, the most popular portal website for Furusato Nozei.

If you have any questions about “Living in Japan,” including Furusato Nozei, please don’t hesitate to contact us. You can reach us through social media or through the contact form below.

If you found this article or our activities helpful, we would greatly appreciate your support with a cup of coffee ☕✨

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If you’re a foreigner working in Japan, taxes are automatically deducted from your monthly salary, and your company pays them on your behalf. This is called “gensen choshu” (withholding at source). While it may seem difficult to adjust your tax amount since taxes are deducted before you receive your salary, understanding Japan’s tax system can help you reduce your tax burden and increase your take-home income.

For detailed information about taxes and insurance premiums deducted from your salary in Japan, please check our related article below↓↓

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As a foreigner working in Japan, the best way to reduce your tax burden is to take advantage of the tax deductions available to you. Before introducing the 12 types of tax deductions that working foreigners can utilize in Japan, let’s briefly answer questions like “How are annual net income and tax amounts calculated for workers in Japan?” and “What’s the difference between deductions applied to taxable income versus deductions applied directly to tax?“

If you understand the calculations above, let’s move on to the answer to our next question.

Now, let’s look at the 12 tax deductions available to foreigners working in Japan. Find the ones that apply to your situation and increase your take-home income!

1- Employment Income Deduction

This deduction is automatically applied to everyone with employment income, including foreigners in Japan. It’s calculated as shown in the table below.

2- Basic Deduction

This is a deduction that all taxpayers (including foreigners) living in Japan can use unconditionally. It’s calculated according to income as shown in the table below.

3- Social Insurance Premium Deduction

The amounts deducted from your salary as social insurance premiums are fully deductible from your taxable income for foreigners working in Japan.

For detailed information about taxes and insurance premiums deducted from your salary in Japan, please check our related article below↓↓

Taxes and Social Insurance Deducted from Salary in Japan | Complete Guide for Foreign Workers

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4- Spouse Deduction

Foreigners working in Japan can also utilize the spouse deduction. This deduction is available when the taxpayer’s income is below ¥10,000,000 and the spouse’s income is below ¥580,000 (or total salary below ¥1,230,000 if employed).

Even if your spouse’s income exceeds ¥580,000, you don’t completely lose the spouse deduction. The deduction amount varies based on your spouse’s income. This is called the Special Spouse Deduction, calculated as shown below.

5- Dependent Deduction

Foreigners working in Japan can claim deductions for family members who are financially dependent on them with annual income below ¥580,000 (or total salary below ¥1,230,000 if employed). Family members in your home country may also qualify if they meet the conditions.

6- Mortgage Loan Deduction

Foreigners working in Japan can also utilize this deduction when taking out a mortgage loan to purchase a home or renovate their house. You can benefit from this for up to 13 years.

To calculate how much tax deduction you’ll receive each year based on your loan amount, you can use Kakaku’s mortgage loan deduction simulator.

7- Furusato Nozei (Hometown Tax)

Furusato Nozei is a system available to residents -including foreigners- living in Japan that allows you to make donations to local governments you want to support and receive gift products based on your donation amount. Gift products range from food and beverages to electronic goods and various regional specialties.

In the Furusato Nozei system, the portion of your donation exceeding ¥2,000 is deducted from your taxes. If you file a tax return, the deduction applies to both your income tax for the donation year and your resident tax for the following year. If you use the One-Stop Special System, the entire deduction – including the income tax portion – will be applied to your resident tax for the following year.

There’s a limit to the tax deduction you can receive based on your annual salary. You can check this limit using the Rakuten Furusato Nozei simulator.

Rakuten Furusato Nozei Simulator

You can use the Rakuten Furusato Nozei portal site to select gift products. This is a great opportunity to get delicious local foods and specialty products from different regions of Japan!

Rakuten Furusato Nozei portal Site

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8- Shin NISA (New NISA)

This is a recommended system for foreigners in Japan interested in stock market investing. Normally, you would need to pay 20.315% tax (15.315% income tax + 5% resident tax) on profits from stock investments. By using Shin NISA (Nippon Individual Savings Account), profits from investing in reliable investment funds designated by the Financial Services Agency (金融庁) are tax-exempt.

When you open a Shin NISA account, you have a tax-exempt investment limit of ¥18,000,000 with no time restrictions, and you can withdraw your money at any time. Remember that the longer you keep your investment, the more your profits are likely to grow!

Any foreigner aged 20 or older with an address in Japan can open a Shin NISA account and invest. You can open an investment account and obtain a Shin NISA account through providers like moomoo Shoken (moomoo証券) or Rakuten Shoken.

If you open an account with moomoo Shoken(moomoo証券) now, you have a chance to earn points worth ¥100,000 that you can use to buy stocks.

moomoo証券

Also, if you open an account with Rakuten Shoken and make total investments of ¥40,000 from your regular investment account using your Rakuten Card, you can earn Rakuten Points worth ¥6,000.

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9- iDeCo

iDeCo (individual Defined Contribution pension, 個人型確定拠出年金) is a personal pension system. Foreigners living in Japan can also use it. You can invest through investment funds, insurance, and cash.

Anyone aged 20-60 with an address in Japan can use iDeCo. However, you cannot withdraw your money until you turn 60, which is the biggest disadvantage. Foreigners who may leave Japan in the future should carefully consider this point.

The monthly contribution limit for company employees is ¥23,000.

You can open an investment account through moomoo証券 or Rakuten Shoken and make iDeCo individual pension investments.

10- Life Insurance Premium Deduction

Foreigners working in Japan can also deduct part of their life insurance premiums from their taxable income if they’re enrolled in life insurance.

11- Earthquake Insurance Premium Deduction

Foreigners working in Japan can also deduct part of their earthquake insurance premiums from their taxable income if they’re enrolled in earthquake insurance. Since Japan is an earthquake-prone country, it’s worth considering earthquake insurance coverage.

12- Medical Expense Deduction

Foreigners working in Japan can also use this deduction if their out-of-pocket medical expenses (not covered by health insurance) exceed ¥100,000 per year. The ¥100,000 includes medical expenses for you and all family members living in Japan.

Only basic medical expenses such as illness and injury are eligible for this deduction. You cannot include expenses like health checkups or cosmetic surgery in this tax deduction.

The medical expense deduction is calculated as follows, and the calculated amount is deducted from your taxable income to provide a tax deduction.

Summary

In this article, we’ve introduced 12 types of tax deductions available to foreigners working in Japan. Since there are many deduction systems available in Japan, the more you increase your knowledge about taxes, the more you can increase your take-home salary.

Some things in this article may seem difficult, but don’t worry – Japanese people struggle with this too! We hope the information provided in this article will help foreign residents improve their lives in Japan. If you have any questions about taxes and deductions in Japan, please feel free to contact us. You can reach us through social media or the contact form below. Multilingual support is available.

If you found this article or our activities helpful, we would greatly appreciate your support with a cup of coffee ☕✨

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How to Calculate Annual Net Income and Tax Amounts for Foreign Workers in Japan

To calculate the tax amount you will pay as a foreign worker in Japan, you first need to calculate your taxable income. Taxable income is calculated by subtracting the available deductions from your total salary. These deductions include the social insurance premiums you pay.

After calculating your taxable income, you can calculate the tax amount you need to pay by multiplying it by the tax rate. This tax rate varies from 5% to 45% for income tax depending on your income level, while residence tax is a flat 10% for everyone.

Your annual net income is calculated by subtracting the total tax amount and social insurance premiums you paid from your salary.

Taxes Deducted from Foreign Workers’ Salaries in Japan

Two types of taxes are deducted from the salaries of foreign workers in Japan: income tax and residence tax. The amount of these taxes does not vary depending on whether you are a foreigner or Japanese national. Tax amounts are determined based on calculations according to your taxable income.

1- Income Tax

Income tax is a tax levied on the income earned during one year from January 1 to December 31. The income tax amount is determined by a progressive tax system. As your taxable income increases, your tax rate also increases. There are 7 tax brackets: 5%, 10%, 20%, 23%, 33%, 40%, and 45%.

Companies calculate your estimated annual net income at the beginning of the year and deduct the estimated income tax amount from your monthly salary. After your actual net income is finalized at the end of the year, adjustments are made. If you overpaid taxes, you will receive a refund in your December salary; if you underpaid, you will pay additional taxes.

2- Residence Tax

Residence tax is a tax paid to the local government where you reside. Residence tax is calculated by multiplying your taxable income by a tax rate of 10%. The tax rate does not change as your taxable income increases.

The most important difference that distinguishes residence tax from income tax is that it is levied on the previous year’s income. Income tax is paid on the current year’s income. Therefore, you will not pay residence tax in the first year you start working in Japan.

Every year in May, residence tax notifications are issued based on the previous year’s taxable income. This notification is sent from local governments to your company, and your company distributes it to you. You pay residence tax from June until May of the following year. For example, residence tax on your 2025 taxable income will be deducted from your monthly salary in 12 installments between June 2026 and May 2027.

Social Insurance Premiums Deducted from Foreign Workers’ Salaries in Japan

Three types of insurance premiums are deducted from the salaries of foreign workers in Japan: health insurance premiums, employees’ pension insurance premiums, and employment insurance premiums. The amount of these insurance premiums does not vary depending on whether you are a foreigner or Japanese national. The insurance premiums you need to pay are determined based on calculations according to your total salary.

1- Health Insurance Premium

Health insurance is an insurance system that ensures coverage of medical expenses that may arise in case of illness or accident. The insured person pays only 30% of medical expenses.

Health insurance premiums are set at different rates by prefecture and are generally around 10%. Half of the 10% (5%) is paid by the employer, and the remaining half (5%) is paid by the employee. The annual payment amount is deducted from your monthly salary in 12 installments.

2- Employees’ Pension Insurance Premium

Japan has two types of pension systems: National Pension Insurance and Employees’ Pension Insurance. All individuals aged 20 and over and under 60 are required to enroll in National Pension Insurance.

Civil servants and company employees enroll in Employees’ Pension Insurance. This insurance is a two-tier pension system that also includes National Pension Insurance. Those enrolled in Employees’ Pension Insurance receive the “Employees’ Pension” from Employees’ Pension Insurance in addition to the “Basic Pension” from National Pension Insurance after retirement.

The Employees’ Pension Insurance premium rate is 18.3% of the total salary, with half (9.15%) covered by the company and half (9.15%) covered by the employee. The annual payment amount is deducted from your monthly salary in 12 installments.

3- Employment Insurance Premium

Employment insurance is an insurance system designed to help employees maintain a stable life in situations where they cannot work, such as unemployment, childcare leave, or illness.

The employment insurance premium rate is 1.45% of the total salary, with 0.9% covered by the company and 0.55% covered by the employee. The annual payment amount is deducted from your monthly salary in 12 installments.

What is Year-End Tax Adjustment (Nenmatsu Chosei)？

Companies deduct taxes throughout the year based on estimated taxable income data from the beginning of the year. However, this does not always reflect your actual taxable income. Situations such as salary increases during the year or a spouse quitting their job significantly affect your tax situation.

Generally, Japanese companies conduct a procedure called “year-end tax adjustment (nenmatsu chosei)” between November and December to determine the tax deductions you can utilize. During this procedure, you report to your company various deductions you can use based on whether you have a mortgage, the number of family members, and various insurances you have personally enrolled in, thereby determining your actual taxable income.

If the company has deducted excessive taxes throughout the year, it will be refunded in your December salary; if insufficient taxes were deducted, additional taxes may be deducted from your December salary.

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Summary

Finally, here is a summary table of the taxes and social insurance premiums deducted from the salaries of foreign workers in Japan as explained in this article.

Knowing how much tax and social insurance premiums will be deducted from your salary in Japan is extremely helpful for foreign workers when receiving job offers to determine whether the offer is at an appropriate salary level for the job and to negotiate salary effectively.

In this article, we have provided information about the taxes and insurance premiums that will be deducted from your salary as a foreign worker in Japan. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us through social media or through the contact form below.

If you appreciate our work and would like to support our continued growth, you can support us by buying us a coffee.

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Living in Japan as a foreigner presents unique financial challenges, especially when it comes to payment methods. While credit cards are widely used in Japan for daily transactions, online shopping, and utility payments, many newly arrived foreigners struggle to qualify for credit card approval. In such cases, debit cards offer an excellent alternative that’s relatively easy to obtain.

Debit cards allow cashless payments and transactions without requiring cash. Unlike credit cards, the amount you spend is immediately deducted from your linked bank account, helping prevent overspending while remaining usable overseas.

This comprehensive guide covers everything from debit card basics to selection criteria and usage tips. We’ll explain the differences between debit and credit cards, important considerations, and recommend the best debit cards for foreigners in Japan. By understanding key factors like annual fees, foreign transaction fees, and insurance coverage, you’ll be able to make an informed choice that suits your lifestyle.

Using debit cards effectively can make your life in Japan more convenient and comfortable. Let’s explore how to leverage debit cards for security and convenience in your daily life.

Debit Card Fundamentals

How Debit Cards Work

Debit cards are directly linked to your bank account, and when you make a payment, the purchase amount is immediately deducted from your account balance. Unlike credit cards, there’s no credit limit, and users can only transact within their available account balance. This eliminates concerns about overspending or accumulating debt, making money management easier.

Debit cards serve as a cash alternative and are widely accepted for online shopping and various daily payments. The convenience of instant account deduction allows users to conduct transactions simply and safely.

Common Uses for Debit Cards in Japan

Debit cards have diverse applications in Japan. In daily life, they’re commonly used for shopping at supermarkets and convenience stores. Debit cards are widely accepted as a cashless payment method, enabling quick and easy transactions.

They’re also used for purchasing tickets at public transportation systems and vending machines. Additionally, debit cards are popular for restaurant and café payments, as well as online shopping through apps and websites. These common use cases demonstrate that debit cards have become established as a convenient and secure payment method in Japanese daily life.

Debit Cards vs. Credit Cards: Key Differences

While both debit and credit cards offer convenient cashless payment solutions, their underlying mechanisms differ significantly:

Payment Method

• Debit Cards: Directly linked to your bank account with immediate deduction upon purchase
• Credit Cards: Allow purchases within a predetermined credit limit, with monthly billing or installment options

Spending Limits

• Debit Cards: Limited to your current account balance
• Credit Cards: Limited by the credit limit set by the card company; becomes temporarily unusable when limit is reached until payments restore available credit

Points and Miles

• Debit Cards: May offer points or miles, but benefits are typically more limited than credit cards
• Credit Cards: Commonly offer robust point and mile reward programs

Insurance Coverage

• Debit Cards: May have limited or no insurance benefits compared to credit cards
• Credit Cards: Often include travel insurance, purchase protection, and other coverage

4 Reasons Why Foreigners Should Have Debit Cards

1. No Need to Carry Cash

One major advantage of debit cards is eliminating the need to carry cash. With a debit card, you don’t need to walk around with large amounts of cash in your wallet or pockets. This reduces risks associated with theft or loss while eliminating the need to handle change during transactions.

Debit cards also save you the hassle of searching for exact change when shopping. This convenience is particularly noticeable during travel or outings. Even when traveling abroad, you don’t need to carry cash, enabling safer and more comfortable trips. The widespread adoption of debit cards has reduced the hassles and risks of carrying cash in daily life and travel, allowing for smarter and safer payment methods.

2. Prevents Overspending

Debit cards serve as an effective tool for preventing overspending. Unlike credit cards, debit cards deduct payments directly from your account, making it impossible to spend beyond your account balance. When insufficient funds are available, the payment is declined, effectively preventing overspending.

This helps maintain your budget while avoiding impulsive purchases and debt accumulation. Additionally, since debit card transactions are immediately reflected in your account, you can track expenses in real-time. Regular monitoring of transaction records helps prevent overspending while enabling more effective money management.

3. International Usability

A key advantage of debit cards is their global usability. Many debit cards are affiliated with international brands (like Visa or Mastercard), making them accepted at merchants and ATMs worldwide. When traveling or on business trips abroad, debit cards enable local currency payments and cash withdrawals from local ATMs.

This eliminates the hassle of currency exchange and local cash preparation. Like credit cards, debit cards can be used for overseas shopping and restaurant payments. However, be aware of foreign transaction fees and exchange rates that vary by card company or bank. Despite these considerations, the convenience of debit cards makes them a reliable payment method trusted by many for international use.

4. Convenient for Online Shopping

Debit cards are extremely convenient for online shopping. Internet purchases can be made easily and safely using debit cards. Simply enter your card number and security code to complete payment and purchase products.

Since debit cards immediately deduct purchase amounts from your account, transaction records are instantly reflected, making money management easier. This allows you to enjoy online shopping while staying within your budget.

How to Choose the Right Debit Card

Annual Fees

Annual fees are an important consideration when selecting a debit card. Many debit cards are offered with no annual fee, meaning users don’t pay fees simply for having the card. This makes them attractive options for first-time debit card users or those looking to minimize costs.

Some debit cards do charge annual fees, but these are typically lower than credit card fees. When annual fees apply, it’s important to evaluate whether the card’s benefits and services justify the cost. Particularly for frequent overseas travel or online shopping, choosing a card with valuable benefits can provide greater convenience despite the annual fee.

Point Rewards Rate

Point rewards rates are crucial factors in debit card selection. This rate indicates the percentage of points earned on card purchases. While debit card reward rates are often lower than credit cards, they vary significantly between card companies and banks.

Choosing cards with higher reward rates allows users to earn points from daily expenses. However, high-reward cards may have higher annual fees or specific requirements, so users should select cards matching their spending patterns and budget.

Foreign Transaction Fees

Foreign transaction fees apply when using debit cards overseas. Most debit cards charge fees for international use, typically calculated as a percentage of the transaction amount or a flat fee. Specific fees vary by card company and bank.

Since foreign transaction fees are directly deducted from your account when using the card, users should check fees in advance and budget appropriately for overseas payments and cash withdrawals. These fees are important considerations for international spending, and choosing cards with lower fees can provide more economical payment solutions.

Insurance Coverage

Insurance benefits attached to debit cards provide important peace of mind for users. Common debit card insurance includes overseas travel insurance and purchase protection. Travel insurance covers sudden illness, injuries, accidents, or theft during international trips. Purchase protection compensates for damage or theft of items bought with the debit card.

These insurance benefits help users prepare for unexpected troubles, enabling confident debit card use. Insurance coverage and scope vary by card company and bank, so users should carefully review contract terms and choose insurance matching their needs.

Important Debit Card Considerations

Beware of Fraudulent Use

When using debit cards, vigilance against fraudulent use is essential. If card information is compromised, unauthorized transactions may occur. Therefore, it’s important to securely store card information and use safe websites for online transactions.

If suspicious transactions occur or your card is lost or stolen, immediately contact your card company or bank to suspend card usage. Regularly checking transaction history and promptly detecting and addressing fraudulent activity are crucial measures for safe debit card use.

Payment Method is Lump Sum Only

Debit cards typically only allow lump-sum payments. This means the full amount is paid at once, without installment or revolving payment options. Therefore, you must always ensure sufficient account balance before making purchases.

Insufficient Funds Block Transactions

When your account lacks sufficient funds, debit card payments cannot be processed. You must check your account balance beforehand and ensure adequate funds are available. If payment is impossible, the transaction will be declined.

Refunds May Take Time

When cancellations occur, refunds may take time to process. Multiple processing steps are required, and timing varies depending on merchant and card company processing speeds. Typically, refunds take several days to weeks.

Some Merchants May Not Accept Debit Cards

Certain merchants and services may not accept debit cards, including highway tolls, gas stations, and in-flight purchases. It’s important to be aware of these limitations.

Top Debit Cards for Foreigners in Japan

Wise

Wise specializes in international money transfers and currency exchange, offering one of the most convenient debit cards for foreigners. The Wise debit card enables low-cost international money transfers and receiving transfers from overseas. You can also withdraw local currency from ATMs worldwide, including Japan.

The Wise debit card partners with Mastercard, making it accepted at merchants globally. If you hold foreign currency in your Wise account, you can convert it to yen and transfer to Japanese bank accounts for a 219 yen transfer fee. Transfers between Wise accounts are free.

MobalPay

When opening bank accounts in Japan, many banks require at least 6 months of residence. For those with less than 6 months of residence, some banks like Japan Post Bank allow account opening, but these are often restricted or non-resident accounts. While Japan Post Bank issues cash cards for ATM deposits and withdrawals, these cards cannot be used for online transactions or store purchases.

MobalPay addresses these challenges by providing prepaid card services accessible to newly arrived foreigners. The MobalPay card is a Mastercard-affiliated prepaid card usable for online transactions and store purchases. Any foreigner with a residence card can apply without minimum residence requirements or credit history checks.

Account funding is possible through online bank transfers or cash deposits at ATMs and convenience stores nationwide.

You can also apply for a SIM card from the same company that provides MobalPay👇

Essential Japan Bundle: SIM + Prepaid Card – Special Offer!

Living in Japan just got easier! Get everything you need to stay connected and pay with confidence – all in one convenient package.

What You Get for Just ¥10,000:

✅ Japanese SIM Card or eSIM (Save ¥220 – 7% OFF!)
✅ Prepaid Mastercard (Save ¥220 – 7% OFF!)
✅ ¥4,500 Pre-loaded Balance ready to use immediately

Why This Bundle is Perfect for Japan:

• Real Japanese phone number with unlimited incoming calls/texts
• High-speed data on Japan’s premium network
• No bank account required – perfect for newcomers
• Pay anywhere Mastercard is accepted – convenience stores, online shopping, Mobile Suica, PayPay
• No contracts – cancel anytime, complete freedom

Simple Process:

1. Apply online with your Residence Card
2. Pay at any convenience store once approved
3. Receive your SIM & Mastercard by mail
4. Activate and start using immediately

Perfect for: Students, working professionals, long-term visitors, and anyone needing reliable connectivity plus payment flexibility in Japan.

Start your Japan journey stress-free – apply today!

MobalPay + Mobal SIM

Rakuten Bank Debit Card

The Rakuten Bank debit card is a reliable card supporting convenient life in Japan for foreigners. A key attraction is the robust campaigns and benefits using Rakuten points. The card operates with Rakuten Group’s reliability and security, enabling domestic and international use.

Online application is simple and accessible for foreigners. The Rakuten Bank debit card has no annual fee and lower foreign transaction fees compared to other cards. Additionally, Rakuten Bank’s online banking convenience allows easy account management and statement checking via internet.

楽天銀行口座紹介キャンペーン

Use referral code P94944968 when opening your Rakuten Bank account to receive 1,200 points!

How to use the referral code

STEP 1: Receive a referral code from a friend

STEP 2: Open a Rakuten Bank account using the referral code

Rakuten Bank Referral Code

【P94944968】

How to use the referral code

If you have a stable income and have been in Japan for more than 3 months, you can also apply for Rakuten’s credit card (Rakuten Card). International students with income from part-time jobs or scholarships are also eligible to apply, so please check it out.

Summary

Debit cards are essential tools for foreigners living in Japan. They enable cashless payments without carrying cash while preventing overspending and providing convenient shopping experiences. Their international usability makes them reliable for travel and business trips, while their versatility extends to online shopping and public transportation.

Understanding proper selection criteria and usage is crucial for choosing the right debit card. Compare conditions like annual fees, foreign transaction fees, and insurance coverage to select a card matching your lifestyle and budget. Also, familiarize yourself with debit card usage while paying attention to money management and security.

Effectively utilizing debit cards can significantly enhance your daily life in Japan, providing both convenience and financial control. Choose the card that best fits your needs and enjoy the benefits of modern cashless living in Japan.

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For international students considering studying in Japan, one of the biggest concerns is understanding monthly living costs for university students. This comprehensive guide covers the average monthly expenses for Japanese university students, explores strategies for supplementing your budget through part-time jobs and scholarships, and provides valuable insights into financial support expectations from families.

Japanese University Tuition Fees

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Average Monthly Living Costs for Japanese University Students

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the average monthly living expenses for university students in Japan:

Housing Costs

Your monthly housing expenses will vary depending on the city you live in, distance from the nearest station to your home or dormitory, and room size. The national average for student housing costs is approximately ¥30,695 per month.

If you rent your own apartment, you’ll need to pay a substantial upfront deposit including security deposits and other fees before moving in. To reduce housing costs, consider staying in student dormitories or share houses. These accommodations often include utilities in the rent.

For international students looking for affordable rental housing in Tokyo or Osaka, check out the housing options provided by “Xross House.” You can choose rental housing that suits you from various options including share houses and single-person apartments equipped with furniture, appliances, and Wi-Fi.

For more information about Xross House, please refer to the article below. If you need any assistance with renting from Xross House, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

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Food Expenses

With an average monthly budget of ¥20,695 (approximately ¥700 per day), eating out every day isn’t realistic. You’ll need to incorporate home cooking into your routine to stay within budget.

Utilities

Monthly utility costs average around ¥12,816.

Entertainment and Hobbies

Entertainment and hobby expenses are essential for enriching your student life in Japan. It’s important to budget for these activities in advance. While costs vary by individual, the average is approximately ¥10,129 per month.

Health and Hygiene

Japanese health insurance costs vary slightly by region but typically range from ¥1,000-2,000 per month. Medical expenses vary depending on how often you visit hospitals, but with insurance coverage, you only pay 30% of the actual medical costs.

Additionally, budget for personal care expenses like hair salon visits. Costs depend on which salon you choose and how frequently you go. Japanese hair salons serve both men and women and require appointments. You can easily book appointments using reservation sites like Rakuten Beauty.

Educational Expenses

A monthly budget of approximately ¥4,325 is sufficient for educational materials. When you need books, consider borrowing from the library or purchasing used books from Amazon Japan.

Other Daily Expenses (Transportation, Internet, Mobile Phone, etc.)

Transportation costs can be expensive in Japan, so living near your school and commuting by bicycle can significantly reduce transportation expenses. If you work part-time, also consider accessibility between your home and workplace.

Home internet connection costs approximately ¥4,000-8,000 per month. However, some apartments and student dormitories include internet fees in the rent, so choosing such properties can help you save on communication costs.

👉 For details on affordable internet services in Japan and the contract process, please refer to the article below.↓↓

外国人必見！日本で最適なインターネット回線の選び方 - Japan Education Career

日本での新生活を始めるにあたり、快適なインターネット環境の確保は重要です。しかし、外国人にとって日本でインターネット回線を契約する際には、言語の壁や手続きの複雑さが障害となることが多いでしょう。本記事では、日本でインターネット回線を契約する...

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Recently, affordable mobile phone companies (MVNOs) have rapidly increased in number. Using these services can keep your mobile phone costs to approximately ¥2,000 per month.

👉 For information on recommended cheap SIM cards for foreigners living in Japan, please see the article below. ↓↓

Yabancılar İçin Japonya SIM Kart Rehberi: Uygun Fiyatlı Tarifeler ve Tavsiyeler - Japan Education Career

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Part-Time Work Situation for Japanese University Students

In Japan, approximately 80.7% of university students work part-time jobs. Depending on the amount of financial support you receive from your family, you may need to supplement your living expenses through part-time work. Job types vary widely and include cashier staff, waitstaff, foreign language teachers, delivery workers, and many others.

For international students, the Japanese government permits working up to 28 hours per week while on a student visa. During long holidays like summer and spring break, this limit increases to 40 hours per week. Part-time hourly wages vary by region and job type but typically range from ¥1,000-2,000.

If you work the maximum permitted hours throughout both the 7-month academic period and 5-month holiday period, you could potentially earn approximately ¥1.6 million per year.

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Popular Part-Time Jobs Among University Students

The most popular part-time job among Japanese university students is restaurant work. Restaurant jobs often come with meal benefits, allowing students to save on food expenses, making them particularly attractive.

Delivery services like Uber Eats have become especially popular in recent years. These jobs offer flexibility to work during preferred hours, making it easier to balance with student life.

For those who want to “earn efficiently with fewer working hours,” language teaching is highly recommended. International students with strong foreign language skills have opportunities to earn relatively high hourly wages.

Additionally, some students take on resort jobs with accommodation during long holidays. Resort work offers unique experiences not available in regular daily life while providing good earning opportunities.

Websites for Finding Part-Time Jobs in Japan

シゴトin

You can use the “シゴトin” website to find part-time jobs near your residential area online.

Steps to follow when searching for suitable work using the search engine:

1- Select your residential area

2- こだわり (Preferences) → Select “International Students OK” (留学生OK). This option gives you access to jobs where foreign students can work.

3- 雇用形態 (Employment Type) → Select “Part-time” (アルバイト). This option gives you access to part-time positions.

シゴトin

CONV

CONV (コンブ) is a comprehensive job site offering a wide range of job information. You can search for jobs by prefecture and find work that’s close to home and easily accessible. This is particularly convenient for those living in rural areas.

Steps to follow when searching for suitable work using the search engine:

1- 都道府県 (residential area) → Select your residential area.

2- 雇用形態 (Employment Type) → Select “Part-time/Arubaito” (パート・アルバイト). This option gives you access to part-time positions.

CONV

Scholarships

Japan offers numerous scholarship opportunities through various organizations:

• MEXT (Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology)
• JASSO (Japan Student Services Organization)
• Universities
• Private organizations

Since Japan has many international students from Asia, European students receive preferential treatment in scholarships to increase diversity among international students in the country.

How to Research Scholarship Information

The number of scholarships you can apply for before coming to Japan is very limited. However, once you arrive in Japan, there are numerous scholarship opportunities available for international students.

Scholarships Available Before Coming to Japan:

Scholarships You Can Apply for After Arriving in Japan

How to Find Appropriate Scholarships

1. First, get information about available scholarships from the international student office of your admitted university

2. Utilize the following resources for comprehensive scholarship searches:

Financial Support Needed from Family

The amount of financial support needed from family varies depending on your university, lifestyle, and whether you receive scholarships. In reality, many international students live without financial support from their families. However, even with scholarships, family support may become necessary for tuition fees or unexpected large expenses.

As you know, international money transfers through traditional banks tend to involve high fees. For those who want to receive money transfers from family cheaply and easily, we recommend using a Wise account.

Affordable and Easy International Money Transfer: Wise

What is Wise?

Wise is an online service that enables affordable and smooth international money transfers. Having a Wise account allows you to receive money transfers from overseas and send/receive payments in multiple currencies. Additionally, the Wise debit card enables cost-effective payments without hidden exchange rate fees or expensive overseas transaction fees.

Benefits of Wise

• Hold over 40 currencies and exchange them at mid-market rates with minimal fees, making it very cost-effective
• Obtain local bank account details for domestic transfers in AUD, CAD, GBP, HUF, EUR, NZD, RON, SGD, TRY, and USD, allowing you to receive transfers as smoothly as domestic transfers
• Make cost-effective overseas payments using the Wise debit card without hidden exchange rate fees or expensive overseas transaction fees (available for order in: Japan, UK, USA, Australia, Canada, Brazil, most EEA countries, etc.)

• Opening a Wise account is free with no fixed costs. Fees only occur minimally during transfers and currency exchanges.

Most Cost-Effective Way to Receive Transfers to Your Wise Account (International Transfer to Japan)

1. Open a free Wise account

2. Share the local currency account details (such as IBAN) provided by Wise with your family or sender

3. Family or sender transfers in local currency → Immediately reflects in your Wise account

4. Exchange local currency to JPY within your Wise account (minimal fees apply)

5. Transfer Japanese yen to your bank account or use directly with your Wise card

Tips for Living Cheaply as a University Student in Japan

As you may have noticed from reading this far, studying abroad in Japan can be quite expensive. To minimize these costs, let’s explore the following money-saving strategies to make tuition and living expenses in Japan more affordable.

Aim for National or Public Universities

University tuition is the largest budget item for higher education in Japan. If you can gain admission to either a national or public university, you can reduce tuition fees by half or even two-thirds compared to private universities. Additionally, since national and public universities are prestigious institutions, your chances of securing scholarships increase significantly.

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Live in Dormitories to Save on Housing Costs

One of the biggest expenses in Japanese student life is housing costs. In fact, housing costs often represent the second-largest expense after tuition.

Renting an apartment in Japan is not simple. Contracts require deposits (shikikin) and key money (reikin), with initial costs potentially reaching 5-6 months’ rent. This presents a significant hurdle for students.

Dormitory living, however, significantly reduces these initial costs. While there are some upfront costs when moving into a dormitory, they’re much more affordable than renting an apartment. Many dormitories also include utilities like water, electricity, gas, and internet in the rent, making monthly living expenses more predictable.

For international students looking for affordable rental housing in Tokyo or Osaka, check out the housing options provided by “Xross House.” You can choose rental housing that suits you from various options including share houses and single-person apartments equipped with furniture, appliances, and Wi-Fi.

For more information about Xross House, please refer to the article below. If you need any assistance with renting from Xross House, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

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How to Reduce Monthly Fixed Expenses

One key to reducing living costs in Japan is reviewing your monthly fixed expenses. Mobile phone, internet, and gas costs can be significantly reduced with the right approach.

Choose Budget SIM Cards

Instead of major carriers like SoftBank, au, or docomo, we recommend choosing communication companies that offer budget SIM services. You can reduce monthly communication costs to approximately ¥2,000-3,000.

Yabancılar İçin Japonya SIM Kart Rehberi: Uygun Fiyatlı Tarifeler ve Tavsiyeler - Japan Education Career

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Home Internet Selection

When contracting home internet services, choose companies with generous cashback campaigns. Also, some properties offer free internet-equipped housing, so checking this when searching for accommodation can provide additional savings.

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Tips for Reducing Gas Costs

Gas costs vary significantly depending on your chosen housing. Properties using city gas have lower rates than LPG (propane gas), making them much more economical long-term.

Additionally, services that offer discounted rates when you bundle city gas and electricity contracts are available. Smart use of bundle discounts (最大15％の節約を実現！) can further reduce your monthly utility costs.

Bring Meals from Home

You might think “bringing food from home seems a bit strange,” but it’s completely normal in Japan. Both working professionals and students commonly bring homemade bento (lunch boxes). This is part of Japan’s “bento culture.” University students shouldn’t worry—many of your friends will likely bring bento too.

Convenience Stores Are Convenient but Not Budget-Friendly

Japanese convenience stores operate 24 hours and sell almost everything, making them incredibly convenient. However, prices are higher compared to supermarkets. If you want to save money, choose affordable supermarkets for daily necessities and groceries.

Utilize 100-Yen Shops

For everyday small items like pens, notebooks, batteries, dishes, and storage solutions, 100-yen shops are sufficient. You can affordably acquire everything you need.

Get Household Items at Great Prices Through Second-Hand Shopping

When you start living in Japan, you’ll need household items like furniture and appliances. While buying everything new can be quite expensive, purchasing second-hand items can lead to significant savings. Here are some recommended second-hand shopping sites available in Japan.

Mercari

Japan’s largest second-hand goods e-commerce site.

• Features: Sells both used and new items. Purchased items are delivered by mail for your convenience.
• Language: Japanese

Invitation code to get 500 yen worth of points when you first register and start using Mercari: TWRWYP

• Invitation code: TWRWYP
• Mercari app: Iphone / Android
• How to use: Download the Mercari app and enter invitation code TWRWYP (not available for web registration)

Please watch the video below to learn how to register on Mercari and enter your invitation code.

メルカリTOPページ

Craiglist

A site featuring advertisements from people wanting to sell second-hand items.

• Features: Direct purchase from sellers’ homes is common. Users tend to be predominantly foreigners.
• Available Areas: Okinawa, Hiroshima, Sapporo, Sendai, Osaka, Tokyo, Fukuoka, Nagoya
• Language: Multi-language support

Jimoty

A bulletin board-style second-hand goods site available throughout Japan.

• Features: Direct pickup from sellers’ homes is common. Users are mainly Japanese, enabling local community interactions.
• Language: Japanese

Make the Most of Your Student Discounts

Japan offers numerous discount services for students, including:

• Commuter Passes (Transportation Cards): Unlimited travel between specific stations, significantly reducing commuting costs
• Movie Theaters: Student discount rates for cheaper ticket prices
• Computers and Software: Available at student-exclusive discount prices

👉 Pro Tip: Always ask “Do you have student discounts?” before making any purchase.

Save More with Cashless Payments Over Cash

Instead of using cash, paying with credit cards, debit cards, or cashless apps returns a portion of your spending as points. These small amounts add up to significant savings!

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If you have a stable income and have been in Japan for more than 3 months, you can also apply for Rakuten’s credit card (Rakuten Card). International students with income from part-time jobs or scholarships are also eligible to apply, so please check it out.

Conclusion

While living in Japan may seem expensive at first glance, education costs are very affordable compared to other G7 countries. Since international students pay the same tuition fees as Japanese students, choosing national or public universities can further reduce your costs.

Additionally, Japan offers numerous scholarship programs provided by government agencies including the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) and the Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO), as well as universities and private organizations. European students, in particular, are often given preferential scholarship opportunities to promote greater diversity among international students.

Furthermore, with abundant part-time job opportunities available for international students, it’s entirely possible to continue your studies without relying on family financial support.

This article has provided comprehensive information about monthly living costs for university students in Japan. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to contact us through social media or our contact form.

Key Takeaways for International Students

Monthly Budget Summary:

• Total Average: ¥101,896 per month
• Major expenses: Housing (¥30,695), Food (¥20,695), Other daily expenses (¥19,153)
• Variable costs: Entertainment, utilities, and personal care

Money-Saving Strategies:

• Choose national/public universities for lower tuition
• Live in dormitories to reduce housing costs
• Work part-time (up to 28 hours/week, 40 hours during holidays)
• Apply for scholarships early and often
• Use second-hand shopping for household items
• Take advantage of student discounts
• Utilize cashless payments for point rewards

Financial Planning Tips:

• Budget approximately ¥1.2-1.4 million annually for living expenses
• Consider earning potential of ¥1.6 million through part-time work
• Plan for initial setup costs and emergency funds
• Research scholarship opportunities before and after arrival

By following this guide and implementing these strategies, international students can successfully manage their finances while enjoying a fulfilling educational experience in Japan.

If you found this article or our activities helpful, we would greatly appreciate your support with a cup of coffee ☕✨

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Did you know that foreigners can also invest using Shin NISA?

Renewed in 2024, the NISA (Nippon (Japan) Individual Savings Account) extended the tax exemption limit up to JPY 18 million and the tax exemption period was also made unlimited. Foreigners living in Japan can also benefit from this system by opening an account. However, questions such as “Which brokerage house can I open an account with?”, “What are the required documents?”, “What kind of investment strategy should I follow?” may be on your mind.

In this article, we explain in detail the advantages of Shin NISA for foreigners, account opening steps, recommended brokers and effective investment strategies. Start growing your investments in Japan by using Shin NISA wisely!

Key features of Shin NISA

First, let’s take a look at the main features of Shin NISA that foreigners living in Japan should know.

What is Shin NISA?

Shin NISA is Japan’s new small-scale tax-exempt investment system starting in 2024. Its most important feature is the investment limit, which provides tax exemption up to a total of 18 million yen. This limit is divided into a regular investment limit (JPY 6 million) and a growth-oriented investment limit (JPY 12 million) and is suitable for long-term asset building. In addition, the tax exemption period is unlimited, which allows for more flexible investment.

By opening a NISA account, you can invest in various financial products such as stocks, mutual funds and ETFs. You can increase your savings more efficiently by taking advantage of tax benefits.

Source: Based on data from the Financial Services Agency「NISAを知る」.

Can foreigners use the new NISA? Can foreigners open an account?

Yes, foreigners can also open a Shin NISA account if they meet certain requirements.

Foreigners aged 18 and over, residing in Japan, can easily open an account as long as they have a residence card (Zairyu Card) and My Number Card. Those planning to leave Japan in the future should not worry either, as they can fully cash out their investments before returning.

With the right information and following the necessary procedures, foreigners living in Japan can also use Shin NISA to invest their savings with peace of mind.

5 big advantages of Shin NISA that foreigners should know

In this episode, we share with you the 5 major advantages of Shin NISA.

Read on so you don’t miss out on these opportunities, which are also very useful for foreigners living in Japan!

Benefit from JPY 18 million tax exemption

With Shin NISA you can benefit from an investment limit with a maximum tax exemption of JPY 18 million. This limit is divided into two different investment types:

• Regular investment limit: JPY 6 million (for long-term, stable investments)
• Growth-oriented investment limit: JPY 12 million (for investments with higher return potential)

This allows you to create a balanced portfolio according to your investment objectives and risk tolerance. It also makes it easier for you to develop flexible investment strategies as you can reuse the limit of the investments you sell.

Indefinite tax exemption: Long-term investment opportunity with no tax time limit

One of the great features of Shin NISA is that the tax exemption period is unlimited. This means that you can make long-term investments without worrying about the tax-free period. Since Shin NISA has no time limit, any gains you make will always remain tax exempt for as long as you hold your investments.

The main advantage of this system is that it facilitates long-term savings and wealth creation. Assets such as stocks and mutual funds, in particular, have the potential to grow more steadily over the long term with a compounded return effect. In addition, you do not have to sell your investments in a hurry for tax reasons, so you can make more flexible and strategic decisions based on market conditions.

Various investment options

Shin NISA offers the possibility to invest in stocks, mutual funds and many other financial products. This way, you can create the ideal portfolio to suit your investment objectives and risk tolerance.

For example, equities are suitable for investors seeking high returns in the short term, as they offer the opportunity to invest in companies with high growth potential. On the other hand, since mutual funds are managed by professional portfolio managers, they offer a diversified investment strategy with lower risk for beginner investors.

The wide range of investment options offered by Shin NISA makes it possible to both build a stable accumulation process and manage risks effectively.

Tax advantage: Investment gains are tax exempt, allowing for more efficient asset management

One of the biggest advantages of Shin NISA is that investment gains are tax-free. In Japan, there is normally a 20.315% tax deduction on stock and mutual fund gains. However, gains on investments made in a Shin NISA account are completely tax-free, allowing you to grow your assets more quickly and efficiently.

For example, an investor who normally makes a profit of JPY 100,000 has to pay about JPY 20,000 in taxes. With Shin NISA, however, this profit remains entirely in the investor’s pocket. The tax advantage maximizes the compound return effect and accelerates long-term asset building.

Especially for foreigners living in Japan, this tax advantage is a great opportunity. By using Shin NISA wisely, you can create the most efficient investment strategy during your stay in Japan.

Flexible investment style: Invest at your own pace with lump sum or regular investment

One of the biggest advantages of Shin NISA is that it offers flexible investment to suit your personal financial situation and lifestyle. Shin NISA offers both lump sum and regular investment, so you can freely choose your investment style.

For example, lump sum investing is suitable for those who want to invest a large amount of savings at once and earn high returns on market movements. Regular investment is ideal for those who want to spread risks and reduce the impact of market fluctuations by investing a certain amount each month.

You also have the freedom to change your strategy at any time during the investment process. This flexibility allows both beginners and experienced traders to create an asset management strategy that suits their own pace. With Shin NISA, you can manage your investments easily, flexibly and efficiently.

Foreigners can open investment accounts in Japan too! Shin NISA application process

Shin NISA also offers easy account opening for foreigners living in Japan. The application process requires documents such as a residence card (Zairyu Card), My Number Card and passport.

To open an account, you first need to choose a brokerage firm (broker). You can then complete your application by submitting the required documents online or by mail to the relevant company. Once the documents have been reviewed and your application has been approved, your Shin NISA account will be opened.

Especially Rakuten Shoken and moomoo証券Online brokerage firms such as Japan Investment Brokerage, offer a fast and convenient trading process, as you can easily open an account using only your smartphone. For foreigners living in Japan, these platforms are highly advantageous for making an easy and hassle-free investment start.

Required documents and requirements

In order to open a Shin NISA account, you must be a foreigner with a residence registration (jūminhyō) in Japan. In addition, you need to prepare the following documents during the application process:

1. Residence Card (Zairyu Card): A mandatory document proving that you are a legal resident of Japan.
2. My Number Card: Required for tax purposes.
3. Identity verification documents: Usually a Residence Card (Zairyuu Card) and My Number Card are sufficient. However, some brokers may request additional documents such as a passport or a driver’s license obtained in Japan.
4. Residence record (where required): Some brokers may require you to submit your residence record (Jūminhyō) in addition.

In addition, you must be at least 18 years old to apply. Depending on the policy of the intermediary agency you choose, additional documents related to your visa type and length of residence may be required. It will be useful to check the requirements of the intermediary organization before applying to ensure that the process goes smoothly.

Recommended brokerage houses for foreigners

For foreigners considering opening a Shin NISA account, it is important to choose a brokerage firm that offers low trading fees and strong customer support. In this regard, Rakuten Shoken and moomoo証券 are among the prominent options.

Rakuten Shoken

• Easy account opening: Apply online using only a smartphone. Account opening can be completed the next business day at the earliest.
• Industry leader in NISA accounts: 12 million general investment accounts by January 2025.
• Wide Range of Products: Provides access to a variety of investment instruments such as stocks, mutual funds, ETFs, foreign stocks and gold.
• Earning and redeeming Rakuten points: You can earn Rakuten points by using “Rakuten Card credit payment” for mutual fund purchases and transactions. Earned points can be used for everyday purchases or Rakuten Shoken through which it can be reinvested.

• Low transaction fees: There are no transaction fees for domestic stock trading.
• Money Bridge feature: Integrates with Rakuten Bank to provide automatic money transfers.
• User-friendly application: By offering an easy mobile app, you can easily invest from anywhere, 24 hours a day.

Moomoo Shoken

• Easy account opening: You can open an account and trade using just your smartphone. The account opening process can be completed within a few days and you can start trading.
• More than 24 million users worldwide: A global financial institution listed on the NASDAQ exchange and offers high reliability.
• Free trading fees at Shin NISA: There are no commission fees for trading Japanese stocks and US stocks through a Shin NISA account, minimizing trading costs.
• Low-cost trading options: With the exception of Shin NISA, there are no commission fees for Japanese shares. The trading fee for US shares is 0.132% of the transaction amount, one of the lowest in the industry.
• Advanced English support: The app and customer support services are also available in English, which is very convenient for foreign traders.
• Global investment opportunities: Not limited to Japanese stocks, access to US stocks and other international markets. In addition, market news from around the world can be followed quickly and completely.
• Free access to a wide range of investment information: Free access to a wide range of financial data such as exchange rates, futures and cryptocurrency markets.
• Expert analysis videos: You can increase your investment knowledge by watching expert analysis on market trends and investment strategies of different countries.
• Comprehensive support service: There is a comprehensive FAQ section on topics such as the account opening process, tax treatment and trading terminology. It offers quick responses to its users via phone, email and 24/7 live chat support.
• Various campaigns: Depending on account opening or trading volume, you can benefit from cashback and various promotions.

moomoo証券

Steps to open a Shin NISA investment account

The process of opening a Shin NISA account consists of the following steps. In most cases, the entire process can be completed using only a smartphone, making the account opening process very quick and hassle-free.

Things to consider when opening a Shin NISA investment account in Japan

Before opening a Shin NISA account, you should consider the following important points to ensure a smooth process.

1. Each person can open only one NISA account: Only one Shin NISA account can be opened for each individual. It is not possible to open accounts with more than one broker at the same time, so be careful when deciding which broker to use.
2. The address information must match: The address on the identity documents you upload with your application must match your residential address (住民票 – jūminhyō) in Japan. If the addresses do not match, the approval of your application may be delayed.
3. My Number (マイナナンバー) Card is mandatory: You must present your My Number Card in order to open a Shin NISA account. You must have this document ready before applying.
4. You may need to close the account if you leave Japan: If you plan to leave Japan, you may need to close your Shin NISA account. It is important to check with your broker about the status of your account before moving abroad.
5. There is an approval process for account opening: When opening a Shin NISA account, you will go through an approval process by the brokerage firm. Incomplete or inaccurate documentation can prolong the process, so make sure to complete your application with complete and accurate information.

Smart asset management strategies with Shin NISA

Shin NISA allows you to make the most of the tax exemption advantage, enabling you to make effective asset management. With the right strategies, you can increase your savings in the long term and achieve your financial goals.

A regular investment limit (つみたて投資枠) is the best option for beginners. By focusing on long-term and low-risk investments, you can grow your capital steadily. Regular investment provides an average cost advantage without being affected by market fluctuations and facilitates risk management.

Those who are more experienced in investing can use the growth-oriented investment limit (成長投資枠) to invest in stocks or mutual funds with high growth potential to generate higher returns. However, it is important to keep in mind that the risks are also higher in this type of investment.

The key to a successful investment strategy is to invest in different asset classes to minimize risks. By including a balanced mix of different investment instruments such as stocks, mutual funds and commodities in your portfolio, you can create an investment strategy that is more resilient to market fluctuations .

By using Shin NISA in accordance with your own investment goals and life plan, you can increase your productivity and build a strong financial foundation for the long term.

Investment strategies for beginner traders

For those who start investing using Shin NISA, it is important to achieve a stable return by minimizing risks. Therefore, one of the most suitable options for beginner traders is to invest regularly every month using the “Regular Investment Limit”.

Regular investing allows you to hedge against market price fluctuations by investing a certain amount each month. This method is called “dollar-cost averaging” and helps you reduce risks by stabilizing the cost of investment.

One of the most preferred investment instruments for regular investing is index funds. Index funds are mutual funds managed in relation to a specific stock market index (for example, the S&P 500 or global stock market indices).

These funds are particularly suitable for start-ups as they are low-cost, broad-based investments that provide stable growth over the long term .

Diversified investment strategies that minimize risks

One of the most effective ways to minimize risks when investing is to create a diversified portfolio. Diversification can be done in terms of asset types, geographical regions and investment timing.

Asset diversification (allocation to different investment instruments)

By investing in different investment instruments, you can spread risk without being tied to a single asset. For example:

✅ Equities: Offer long-term growth potential.
✅ Mutual funds: Professionally managed funds offer balanced investment opportunities.
✅ Gold and precious metals: Serves as a safe haven in times of economic uncertainty.

This diversification ensures that if one asset class depreciates, the others play an offsetting role.

Geographic diversification (investing in different countries and markets)

Instead of limiting your investments to Japan or a single country, you can reduce risks by spreading your investments across different regions.

✅ Japan stocks: Suitable for those who want to invest in the local market.
✅ US shares: Offer growth opportunities in the world’s largest economy.
✅ Emerging markets: Provides access to markets with high growth potential.

Time diversification (reducing price fluctuations through regular investment)

It is a safer strategy to invest regularly over a period of time rather than making a large investment all at once to avoid being affected by market fluctuations.

This strategy helps you build a more stable portfolio in the long run .

Tax measures that foreign investors living in Japan should be aware of

For foreigners investing in Japan, it is important to understand the tax regulations. Since profits (dividends and sales gains) generated using Shin NISA are exempt from tax, it is possible to grow assets efficiently. However, it is important to note that investments outside your NISA account will be taxed at approximately 20,315%.

In addition, dividends or gains on sale from investments made outside Japan (e.g. in the US) may be subject to withholding tax in the country of investment. In this case, there may be a risk of double taxation by both the country of investment and Japan. However, the tax burden can be reduced by taking advantage of tax benefits such as a deduction for foreign taxes (外国税額控除).

In addition, how investment assets are managed when leaving Japan can also affect the amount of tax. Therefore, consulting with an expert in advance will help you manage your investments in the most efficient way.

Summary | Start smart investing with Shin NISA!

Shin NISA is also an attractive investment vehicle for foreigners living in Japan. With an 18 million yen tax exemption, indefinite tax benefits and a wide range of investment options, there are many opportunities for both beginners and experienced investors. Rakuten Shoken and moomoo証券 With online brokerage firms such as the online brokerage platform, you can easily open an account and start investing using just your phone.

By making the most of tax advantages, you can grow your long-term savings with an investment strategy that suits you. It is possible to achieve stable returns with the right knowledge and strategy! Start your smart investment journey by using Shin NISA now !

We also offer Shin NISA account opening support for foreigners who are concerned about Japanese. For assistance, you can contact us via the contact form below or via social media DM.

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