Japanese mobile phone/SIM/Internet for foreigners

For short-term stays, “ready-to-use” is important.

When traveling or staying for a few weeks, availability from the moment you arrive is more important than the length of your contract. If the device is compatible, eSIM or prepaid SIM are possible options. Before purchasing, please check whether your smartphone is compatible with the service you want to use.

If you plan to live there for a long time, consider the use of your phone number.

If you plan to live in Japan for a long time, you may need a domestic phone number in addition to data communication. This is because your phone number may be required for work-related communications, registration for various services, delivery, etc. Compare not only rates, but also calls, data capacity, contract period, cancellation terms, overseas usage, etc.

Home internet requirements vary depending on the building.

When using fixed internet such as fiber optic lines, check the equipment status of your apartment or house. Even if a property advertisement says ``Internet compatible,'' whether you can use it for free or whether you need to sign a contract yourself is a different matter. If your job involves a lot of online meetings, not only speed but also stability is important.

Identity verification and payment method at the time of contract

Conditions such as identity verification documents and payment methods vary depending on the carrier. It is a good idea to check whether foreign language support is available. Don't sign a long-term contract without understanding the Japanese contract; check the fees, options, and cancellation conditions before applying.

At JCBO, we provide an entry point for thinking about what kind of communication environment you need after sorting out your length of stay and purpose of living, rather than relying only on a specific communication company.

Things to review after actually starting your life in Japan

Things that you didn't understand during the preparation stage will become clear to you once you actually live in Japan for a few days to a few weeks. Write down the time it takes to commute to work or school, ease of shopping, language problems, monthly expenses, etc., and check for any differences from your expectations. It is not necessary to continue with the method you initially decided on, but it is important to adjust communication contracts, travel routes, shopping locations, housing conditions, etc. to suit your lifestyle.

Organize important information in one place

In life in Japan, the number of contacts increases, such as address, contact information for work or school, housing management company, hospital, insurance, bank, telecommunications company, etc. Instead of saving it only on your smartphone, it's a good idea to make a list of the information you need and share it with your family if you have them. Make sure to save contracts, receipts, and important emails in a way that you can check them later.

Check the latest information on systems and professional judgments.

It is necessary to separate general information about daily life from professional judgments such as immigration status, law, taxation, and medical care. As systems and conditions are subject to change, please check the latest information from public institutions and contracting parties before proceeding with the procedure. For work that requires qualifications, it is important to consult with an administrative scrivener, lawyer, tax accountant, or other appropriately qualified professional.