In Japan, it is not uncommon for landlords to request a joint guarantor when signing a lease. This traditional arrangement ensures that if the tenant fails to pay rent or breaches the contract, a guarantor will assume financial responsibility.

However, for many foreign residents, having a guarantor within Japan is simply not feasible. Relatives often live abroad, and finding someone locally who can speak Japanese and is willing to take on such a legal obligation can be difficult.

So, does the absence of a guarantor mean renting in Japan is impossible? Fortunately, the answer is no—there are several practical solutions that make leasing without a guarantor entirely achievable.

This article outlines three reliable alternatives for foreign nationals without access to a guarantor, along with their respective benefits and considerations.

Solution 1: Use a Rent Guarantor Company

In today’s Japanese rental market, it is increasingly common to utilize a rent guarantor company in place of a traditional personal guarantor. These companies assume financial responsibility for unpaid rent and are widely accessible to foreign residents.

How It Works:

• The tenant pays a service fee to the guarantor company (typically 30–100% of one month’s rent as an initial fee, plus an annual renewal fee).

• If rent is unpaid, the guarantor company covers the amount temporarily.

• The tenant is then legally obligated to reimburse the guarantor company.

Advantages:

• Enables lease contracts without needing a personal guarantor

• Many guarantor companies offer multilingual services tailored for foreigners

• Widely accepted by real estate agencies, increasing your rental options

Considerations:

• Additional costs apply (initial and annual guarantor fees)

• Approval is not guaranteed—applicants must pass a screening process based on income and visa status

• Payment discipline is essential—late payments may trigger immediate follow-up or collection actions

By choosing a rent guarantor company, you gain access to a broad range of properties—but it is important to plan your finances in advance, including all related guarantor fees.

Solution 2: Work with Real Estate Agencies That Specialize in Supporting Foreign Tenants

Across Japan—especially in metropolitan areas such as Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, and Fukuoka—there are numerous real estate agencies that actively welcome and support foreign residents. Many of these offices have multilingual staff fluent in English, Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, Thai, and more.

How to Find Them:

• Use search terms such as “foreigner apartment Japan” or “foreigner-friendly real estate Tokyo”

• Browse rental websites designed specifically for non-Japanese speakers (many offer English or multilingual interfaces)

• Ask for referrals through expat communities, embassy networks, or local SNS groups

Advantages:

• These agencies are accustomed to working with tenants who do not have guarantors and will guide you toward properties that utilize guarantor companies

• Staff can assist in preparing application documents and explaining procedures in a clear, supportive manner

• Some agencies offer continued language support even after move-in, particularly for handling maintenance or lease-related issues

Considerations:

• Availability may be limited to major cities or specific property types

• Even with English support, not all procedures can be entirely delegated

In neighborhoods with high concentrations of international professionals and students, real estate agents are often experienced in helping non-Japanese tenants. By openly stating upfront that you do not have a guarantor, you allow the agency to offer the most suitable and realistic leasing solutions.

Solution 3: Choose Properties with Built-In Guarantor Support Plans

An increasing number of rental properties in Japan now offer “guarantor-free” packages, which include the cost of guarantor services in the initial fees. These options are especially common in furnished monthly apartments and share houses designed for short-term stays or foreign tenants.

Key Features:

• Guarantor company fees are often included in the initial move-in costs

• Some properties support credit card payments, reducing or eliminating the need for guarantor service fees

• Application procedures are typically simple, making them accessible even for non-Japanese speakers

Advantages:

• Immediate leasing is often possible without a guarantor

• Furnished units reduce the cost and hassle of moving

• Ideal for temporary stays, trial residency, or relocation periods

Considerations:

• Rent may be comparatively higher over the long term

• Lease extensions or renewals may be restricted

• Some properties, especially share houses, may impose limits on privacy or noise levels

For those needing immediate housing without a guarantor, this type of property presents a practical and accessible starting point for life in Japan.

Even Without a Guarantor, You Can Still Find a Home in Japan

Being a foreign resident without a guarantor is no longer a barrier to renting a home in Japan. Thanks to the growing use of rent guarantor companies and the expansion of multilingual support in the rental market, the process has become significantly more accessible and flexible.

By focusing on the following key actions, you can present yourself as a reliable and qualified tenant:

• Prepare accurate documentation for your residence status, employment, and income

• Provide a reachable emergency contact within Japan

• Proactively utilize guarantor companies, foreigner-friendly agencies, and no-guarantor properties

With the right information and preparation, you can overcome the uncertainty of “not having a guarantor” and begin your new life in Japan with confidence and peace of mind.