“Is Buying Property in Japan Complicated for Foreigners?” In reality, Japan is one of the few countries in the world where foreigners can freely purchase property—with no visa, no residency, and no citizenship required.

All you need is the intent to purchase and the necessary funds.

In this guide, we walk you through Japan’s surprisingly simple acquisition process, tailored specifically for first-time foreign buyers.

◆ Point 1：No Visa Required to Purchase Property

There are no residency, nationality, or visa requirements to purchase property—including land-attached houses and condominiums.

• Properties can be purchased even on a tourist visa
• A local Japanese address is not required
• Ownership can be held under an individual or corporate name
• Owners are free to live in, lease out, or resell the property

This level of accessibility is remarkably rare in Asia, especially when compared to countries like Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia.

◆ Point 2：Only Three Documents Required

Purchasing property in Japan as a foreigner is remarkably straightforward. You’ll need just three basic documents:

1. Passport (to verify foreign nationality)
2. Signature certificate or personal seal
3. Proof of funds, such as a bank balance certificate

Beyond that, a trusted real estate agent and judicial scrivener will guide you through the process, handling everything from document translation and contract execution to title registration.

◆ Point 3：Cash Purchases Are Common—And Perfectly Feasible

Japanese financial institutions are generally reluctant to offer mortgage financing to foreign buyers, making cash purchases the most common route. That said, this also offers key advantages: no lengthy approval process, and the ability to complete transactions swiftly.

• With funds readily available, property transfer can typically be completed within one month.
• Both ownership registration and title transfer are handled efficiently.
• Residence can be immediately placed on the rental market upon acquisition.

◆ The Purchase Process — As Fast As 30 Days

1. Property selection and viewing (virtual tours available)
2. Submission of purchase application
3. Deposit payment (typically 5–10% of the purchase price)
4. Signing of sales agreement (with full Japanese-English translation support)
5. Final payment and title registration
6. Handover of keys and completion of transfer

Throughout this process, experienced real estate professionals and judicial scriveners handle every step—from document preparation to legal procedures—ensuring a seamless experience even without Japanese language skills.

◆ Increasing Demand from Thai and Hong Kong Buyers

• Budget range: ¥50 million to ¥300 million
• Property type: premium condominiums in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka
• Purpose of acquisition: second residence, education for children, asset diversification, rental income generation

After purchase, owners can delegate key handling, maintenance, and rental operations to a trusted property management company—making it entirely feasible to own and operate the property remotely.

◆ Simple, Predictable Costs and Tax Structure

• Annual property tax: typically between 0.4% and 0.7% of assessed value
• Monthly maintenance and reserve fund fees: approximately ¥10,000 to ¥50,000
• Income tax: applicable only if rental income is generated

This transparent cost structure allows for reliable forecasting and minimal ongoing overhead—a key advantage for long-term ownership and investment planning.

◆ It’s Not About “Can I Buy?”—It’s About “When Should I?”

Many international buyers initially wonder, “Am I even allowed to purchase property in Japan?”

In truth, Japan is increasingly recognized as a welcoming and transparent investment environment for foreign nationals.

As one of the safest and most stable countries in the world, Japan offers more than just property—it offers peace of mind. Now may be the ideal time to add this trusted asset class to your global portfolio.